how to open car keys locked inside to Deal With
Locked Keys in Car UKIf you have locked your keys in car UK, it can be an extremely stressful situation. There are several methods to retrieve your keys, but you must always exercise extreme caution when there are children or other vulnerable people in the car.
The RAC suggests you try to locate your keys prior to calling the police. These DIY methods could damage the interior of your vehicle and should only be only used as a last option.
Do It Yourself
It's easy to lock your keys in the car or boot. It's more frustrating if you are miles away from your home and can't gain access to your vehicle. There are several ways to address this issue. It is crucial to remain calm and evaluate the situation. Next, you need to find a safe method to get out of the vehicle without causing damage to it. There are a myriad of ways to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to trying different methods and apps. The most important thing is not to be in a panic, as this will only increase the severity of the problem.
If you have an extra key that you have, you can use it to gain entry into your car. If your car has manual locks, this is a good solution. But if it's an automatic vehicle, you may have try a different approach. You could also make use of a long-reach tool which is a type of rod with a hook or loop on the end. This tool can be used to open the boot or door lock.
Another option is to try to get the vehicle identification number (VIN) by looking at the panel on the dashboard. The number is usually visible, but it may be hidden behind a cover. You can also find your VIN in your insurance documentation or on your proof of insurance card. If you are unable to locate it, you may need to contact an locksmith.
It's always recommended to leave a spare key with someone you trust. This will let you get back into your
car door lockout if you forget your keys, and will reduce the cost of calling a professional. You should also consider leaving the spare key in a safe location, like your house.
Keep a slim Jim or other lockout tool for your vehicle. These tools are useful for getting into your car in the event of an emergency, and are affordable to purchase.
Contact Your Breakdown Provider
Roadside assistance is included in a lot of cars as standard. If you're a member of AA or RAC it should be the first call you make. This usually covers the cost of contacting a locksmith and getting you back in your
vehicle unlocking. If you're not sure the coverage of your breakdown insurance policy or if it's going to cost extra, contact the provider directly to confirm.
It is also important to determine whether your policy contains "key assistance". It's typically an optional add-on however some providers such as Start Rescue include it as a core feature of their policies. They'll cover the call-out of a locksmith and pay any costs associated with transporting your keys from the recovery service to your garage or home (if they're closer) in the event that you have them locked in the car.
It is important not to take extreme measures while locked out of your car. This can damage the vehicle and make your insurance invalid, so it's never an ideal idea. Avoid breaking windows as it makes it harder to get into the vehicle.
If your vehicle isn't in danger or you have pets, children elderly people, vulnerable people locked in the car, there's no need to call emergency services. You should also call the police if there is a risk of heatstroke, or other health issues.
If you're worried that your keys might be locked in your car, it's recommended to leave a spare key with an individual from your family or a friend. You can also unlock your car using an app on your smartphone. This service is provided by a variety of manufacturers, including BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. If you own a car with a smart feature, it's also worth looking at its companion app, which will allow you to control the key features of your car remotely via an app on your phone. There are many garages that can create a duplicate key for you, so if have a trusted mechanic close by then this might be a viable option.
Call a locksmith
It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys inside their cars, particularly those who commute. If you have a spare car key or an app for your smartphone that opens the doors, this is an easy issue to resolve. If you don't have these tools, it is time to contact experts.
The first thing you must do if you have locked your keys in your car is to breathe deeply and try not to panic. If you panic, it will be even harder to think straight and find an answer. You can also search on the internet for local locksmiths who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a specialist arrives at your location quickly, which makes the process less stressful.
If you are a member of a breakdown company like the RAC or the AA, then this should be your first port of call. If they are unable open your vehicle without damaging it they will recommend a professional locksmith who has expertise with vehicles. Based on your policy, it could be a no-cost service, or they may have the option of paying a fixed price for this service.
You can also contact a locksmith however, you must be cautious. Using an internet search will help you locate a reputable and experienced locksmith who is DBS verified and vetted. You can also check online if the locksmith you choose is accredited independently by the Master Locksmiths Association.
Many people also resort to local garages in the event of being locked out of their car but this is more expensive than calling professionals. However, they can still be less expensive than attempting to gain entry into the vehicle yourself, and will often get the job done much faster.
If you're stuck in a public area and you believe there is a danger to other road users, or there are elderly, children or pets inside the car then it is best to call the police. However, it is recommended to contact your breakdown service provider or a specialist Auto Locksmith first before doing this, as they will be able to give assistance and guidance in these instances.
Call the police
When you're on the go it's easy to forget keys in your car. This is especially true when you're not at home. If you're in a remote area away from anyone and everything, it's an even more challenging and dangerous situation to be in. It's tempting to try and get your keys back on your own however it's not a wise idea. You can damage your car and end up paying more money if you attempt to force locks on or smash windows.
The first step is to examine the situation. Are you in a secure location or are you able to return to your car? Double-check your keys are really locked inside the car. It's amazing how many people leave their keys in their cars while they go to the store or post office. If you're able verify that your keys remain in the vehicle then it's time to contact help.
The police won't be capable of unlocking your vehicle, but they will help you find a solution. They can offer advice and recommend professionals, such as locksmiths or garages. They'll also be able tell you if your car has the option of a remote lock and if it is able to be activated via your phone. You 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 boot.
While it's not ideal to lock your keys inside your
free car unlock service, it's best to be prepared for this situation. By being calm and evaluating your options, you can quickly solve the issue. Keep a spare car key in your vehicle, the emergency number of your breakdown service provider handy and think about installing a hidden key device on your vehicle to prevent further lockouts. You could also install an alarm system for your vehicle and have the keys reset to eliminate any previous owner's access. This will prevent thieves from using the vehicle to steal your keys.