on July 28, 2024
How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
It can be a stressful experience when you lock your keys inside the car. There are many options to get your keys back but you must always exercise extreme caution, particularly when there are children or vulnerable persons locked inside.
The RAC suggests that you attempt to locate your keys prior to calling the police. These DIY methods may cause damage to the interior of your vehicle and should only be only used as a last resort.
Do It Yourself
Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake that people make. It can be even more difficult when you're miles from your home and cannot gain access to your vehicle. There are fortunately, various options for dealing with this issue. The most important thing is to stay calm and assess the situation. The next step is to find a safe method to get out of the vehicle without causing any damage to it. There are a myriad of ways for doing this, from using coat hangers to testing out apps and other methods. It is crucial not to panic, as this can cause more problems.
If you have an extra key, you can use this to get into the car. This is usually a great alternative for cars that have manual locks, but you may need to try other tactics in the case of an automatic car. You can also make use of the long reach tool that is a rod that has an end loop or hook at the end. This tool can be used to reach the door or <a href="https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/mistubishi-car-key-replacements-near-me/">boot</a>; lock and unlock it.
You can also locate the vehicle identification number by looking at the dash panel in the dashboard. The number is usually visible, but it is sometimes hidden behind the cover. You can also locate your VIN in your insurance paperwork or on your insurance proof card. If you are unable to locate it, you might need to contact a locksmith.
It is always recommended to leave an extra key with someone you are confident in. You can then access your vehicle if you've lost your keys. This will prevent you from calling a professional. It is also advisable to keep the spare key in a secure place, such as your house.
Keep a slim Jim or any other lockout tool for your car. These tools are not expensive and can be used to gain access into your vehicle in an emergency.
Contact Your Breakdown Provider
Roadside assistance is included in a lot of cars as standard. If you are a member of AA or RAC, this should be the first number you dial. This will usually cover the cost to call a locksmith to get you back into your car. If you're not sure what is included in your breakdown insurance policy or if it's likely to cost extra you should contact the provider directly to confirm.
It is also important to determine whether your policy contains "key assistance". It's usually an optional option however some companies like Start Rescue make it a standard part of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they'll pay for a locksmith come out and transport your keys to your home or garage.
It's crucial to avoid taking extreme measures while locked out of your car. This can damage your vehicle and invalidate insurance. It's not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows as this can make it harder to get into the vehicle.
Unless your car is in a dangerous position, or you have children, pets elderly people, vulnerable people locked inside there's no need to call emergency services. If you're at risk of heatstroke or other health problems, you should also call the police.
If you're concerned that your keys will be locked in your car, it is a good idea for you to leave a spare with an individual from your family or a friend. You can also use a smartphone application that will unlock your car without the use of a physical key. This service is provided by several manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. You should also think about the 'companion application' if you own a car with a smart system. This allows you to control your car's key features through an app. 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 possibility.
Contact an expert locksmith
It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys in their vehicle, especially for those who commute. If you have a spare car key or an application for your smartphone that unlocks the doors, it's an easy problem to solve. If you don't have these tools, it is time to talk to the experts.
Take a deep breath, and don't worry if you put your keys in your vehicle. If you panic it will be more difficult to think clearly or think of a suitable solution. It's also recommended to begin looking for locksmiths online near you that specialise in access to vehicles. This will ensure that a specialist comes out to your location quickly, which makes the process less stressful.
It is best to contact your breakdown provider first, if you are already a member. If they are unable to unlock your car without damaging the vehicle, they will recommend an experienced locksmith with previous experience working with vehicles. The service could be offered for free or at the cost of a fixed amount, based on your insurance policy.
Another option is to speak with a locksmith directly, but it is important to be cautious when doing this. You can locate a vetted and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. You can also find out online to see if the locksmith you select is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.
Many people also turn to garages in their area when they're locked out of their vehicle, but this can be more expensive than calling in professionals. However, they can still be less expensive than attempting to break into your car yourself and can often complete the job much faster.
If you are in a public place and believe that there is a danger to other motorists, or there may be pets, elderly, or children in your vehicle you should call the police. It is best to call your breakdown company or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can give you advice and assistance.
Call the Police
When you're on the go it's easy to forget your keys in your car. This is especially true when you're not at home. If you're in a remote area away from anyone, this is an even more challenging and dangerous situation to find yourself in. It's tempting to find your keys by yourself but it's not a smart idea. You could damage your vehicle and pay more money if you attempt to force locks or break windows.
The first thing you need to take note of the situation - are you in a secure area and where can you go to get back in your car? Double-check your keys are really secured in the car. It's amazing <a href="https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/fiat-car-key-replacements-near-me/">how to open car door without keys</a> many people lose their keys in their cars as they visit the store or post office. If you're able to verify that your keys are in the car, it's time to call for help.
If the police are unable to unlock your car, they can assist you in finding an answer. They can give you suggestions and recommend professionals, like locksmiths or garages. They can also tell you if the vehicle comes with an option for remote locking and if it can be activated via your smartphone. You can also leave the spare key with someone who has the ability to access your vehicle and use the app on their smartphone to <a href="https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/jaguar-car-key-replacements-near-me/">open locked car door</a> the doors and boot.
<img src="https://g28carkeys.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Land-Rover.png"; style="max-width:410px;float:right;padding:10px 0px 10px 10px;border:0px;" alt="" />While it's never ideal to lock your keys in your car, it's better to be prepared for this situation. By being calm and evaluating your options, you'll be able to quickly resolve the problem. Keep a spare car key in your car, the emergency number of your breakdown service provider handy, and consider installing an invisible key device in 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 your car to steal their own keys.
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