How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
It can be a stressful experience when you lock your keys in the car. There are many ways to retrieve your keys, but you should always exercise extreme caution if you have children or other vulnerable people inside.
The RAC recommends that you attempt to recover your keys on your own before calling the police. These DIY methods could damage the interior of your vehicle and should be used as the last resort.
Do It Yourself
Locking your keys in your car or in the boot is an easy mistake to make. It's even more annoying if you are miles away from home and are unable to get into your car. There are several solutions to this problem. It is crucial to remain calm and analyze the situation. The next step is to figure out a secure way to exit the vehicle without causing any damage to it. There are many different strategies to accomplish this, from using coat hangers to trying out apps and other methods. It is important to not be overly anxious as this could make things worse.
You can make use of a spare car key to open the vehicle. If your car has manual locks it is a great solution. If it's an automatic vehicle, you may need to try another method. You can also make use of an extended reach tool, which is a type rod with hook or loop at the end. This tool can be used to open the door lock or boot.
You can also identify the vehicle's identification number by looking at the dash panel in the dash. The number should be visible, but it is sometimes hidden behind the cover. You can also locate your VIN on your insurance documents or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you cannot find it, a locksmith may be needed.
Always leave the spare car keys with someone you can trust. It is then possible to get into your vehicle if you've forgotten your keys. This will spare you from calling an expert. You should also think about putting the spare key in a secure location, such as your home.
It is recommended to keep a slim jim or other automotive lockout tools in your vehicle. These tools can be useful for getting into your car in the case of an emergency and are affordable to purchase.
Call Your Breakdown Provider
Many cars come with roadside assistance in the standard package, and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first point of contact. This will usually cover the cost of calling locksmiths to help you get back in your car. If you're uncertain about what's covered under your breakdown policy or if it's going to be a cost, contact the provider directly to confirm.
It is also worth checking if you have 'key assist' as a part of your policy. It's usually an add-on that is not required however some providers such as Start Rescue include it as a core feature of their policies. They'll pay for the call out of a locksmith and cover any costs associated with transporting your keys from the recovery operator to your garage or home (if they're closer) if you have them locked in your car.
It is important not to take extreme measures when you're locked outside your vehicle. This could damage your vehicle and invalidate your insurance. It's not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows as it can make it harder to enter the vehicle.
There's no need to call emergency services unless your vehicle is in a hazardous position or you have pets or children locked inside. You should also call the police if you are at the possibility of suffering from heatstroke or any other health issue.
If you're worried about locking your keys in your car in the future it's a good idea leave a spare key with a family member or friend. You can also use a smartphone application that can unlock your car without the use of the physical key. This service is offered by a variety of manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. You should also think about the "companion app" when you own a smart car. This will allow you to remotely control your car's key features via an app. There are many garages that can create a duplicate key on behalf of you, so if you have a reliable mechanic in your area then this might be a possibility.
Contact a locksmith
Locking your keys in your car is a very common occurrence, especially for commuters to work or school. If you're fortunate enough to have a spare key or an app for your smartphone that can unlock the doors and open the car, then this is a simple problem to solve. If you don't own these tools, it is time to contact the experts.
The first thing you should do if you have locked the keys to your car is to breathe deeply and try not to panic. If you panic, then it will be more difficult to think clearly and think of the best solution. You can also look online for local locksmiths who specialize in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a professional arrives at your location quickly, which will make the situation less stressful.
You should call your breakdown provider first, if you are an active member. They are usually able to gain entry into your vehicle without causing any damage to it, however if they are not able to do this, they'll recommend a locksmith with experience in vehicles. Based on your policy, this could be free of charge, or they could charge an agreed-upon cost for this kind of service.
Another option is to call the locksmith directly, however it's crucial to be cautious when doing this. Searching on the internet can help you find an experienced and reliable locksmith who is DBS verified and checked. It is also recommended to check that the locksmith you select has been independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association, which is possible online.
If they're locked out of their car, a lot of people go to their local garage. However, this could be more costly than hiring an expert. They are less expensive than trying your luck to get into the vehicle, and they will accomplish the job faster.
If you are in a public space and feel there is a risk to other road users, or there could be pets, elderly, or children in your car you should call the police. However, it is recommended that you call your breakdown service provider or an expert Auto Locksmith first before doing this because they'll be able to give assistance and advice in these instances.
Call the police
If you're on the move it's easy to lose keys in your car. This is especially true if you're not at home. If you're in a remote area miles from anyone and everything, it's an even more difficult and dangerous situation to be in. It's tempting to try and retrieve your keys on your own however it's not a good idea. Intentionally forcing locks or break windows could cause damage to your vehicle, and cost you more in the long run.
The first thing to take note of the situation Are you in a safe place and where do you go to return to your vehicle? Make sure your keys are secured in the car. It's astonishing how many people leave their keys in their cars as they visit the store or the post office. If you can confirm that your keys are in the vehicle and you're not sure, contact help.
If the police cannot unlock your car, they can assist you in finding a solution. They can give you advice and recommend professionals, such as a garage or locksmith. They can also tell you if the vehicle comes with a remote locking feature and if it is activated via your smartphone. car open service can also leave a spare vehicle key with someone who has access to your vehicle. They can then make use of an app on their smartphone to open the doors or open the boot.
While it's not ideal to lock your keys inside your car, it's better to be prepared for this scenario. You can swiftly resolve the issue by remaining calm and assessing all possible options. Keep a spare car key in your car, the emergency number of your breakdown service provider on hand, and consider installing an invisible key device in your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. Install an alarm system inside your car and reprogram keys to block access from previous owners. This will also stop thieves from using your vehicle as a vehicle to steal their own sets of keys.