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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 get back your keys, however you must take extreme caution if you have children or other vulnerable people in the car.
The RAC recommends that you try to retrieve your keys before calling the police. These DIY methods could harm the interior of your car and should be only used as the last option.
Do It Yourself
It's easy to lock your keys in the boot or car. It's even more annoying if it happens when you're far from home and unable to gain access to your vehicle. There are fortunately, several options to deal with this problem. The most important thing is to remain calm and assess the situation. Next, you need to find a safe way to exit the vehicle without damaging it. There are a myriad of ways to do this, ranging from using coathangers to using apps and other methods. The most important thing to remember is not to be in a panic, as this will only increase the severity of the problem.
If you have a spare key you can use it to gain entry into your car. This is usually a good option for cars that have locks that are manual, however you may need to try different methods in the case of a car that is automated. You could also use a long-reach tool, which is a type of rod that has a hook or loop on the end. This tool can be used to unlock the door or boot lock.
Another option is to locate the vehicle identification number (VIN) by looking at the panel on the dash. The number should be visible, but it is sometimes hidden behind the cover. You can also try to locate your VIN on your insurance paperwork or proof of insurance card. If you are unable to locate it, a locksmith might be required.
It is advisable to leave an extra car key with someone who you trust. This will allow you to get back into your car if you forget your keys, and will help you avoid the expense of calling an expert. You should also consider leaving the spare key in a secure place, such as your house.
Keep a slim Jim or other locksmith tools for your car. These tools are useful to gain access to your car in the case of an emergency and are affordable to purchase.
Call Your Breakdown Provider
Many cars come with roadside assistance and if you're member of the AA or RAC then this is your first port of call. This will usually cover the cost of calling an emergency locksmith to get back into your car. Contact your service directly if you are unsure of what is covered under your breakdown policy or should you be concerned about an additional cost.
It's also worth checking whether you have "key assist" in your policy. It's typically an optional add-on but some providers like Start Rescue include it as an essential part of their policies. They'll cover the call out of a locksmith and cover the cost of transporting your keys from the recovery company to your garage or home (if they're nearer) in the event that you have them locked in the car.
If you're locked out your vehicle, it's vital not to take extreme steps to gain access. This could cause damage to your vehicle and invalidate your insurance. It's not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows since this makes it harder to get inside the vehicle.
There's no need to call emergency services unless your vehicle is in a dangerous location or you have pets or children in your car. If there's a chance of heatstroke or any other health issue it is recommended to call the police.
If you are worried that your keys will be locked in your car, it's an ideal idea to leave a spare keys with someone in your family or with a friend. You can also use a smartphone app that allows you to unlock your car without using keys that are physically present. This service is provided by several manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. It is also worth considering the "companion app" if you own a smart vehicle. This will allow you to remotely manage the features of your car via an application. Many garages can make duplicate keys for you. If you have a trusted technician nearby it is an option.
Call for a locksmith
Locking your keys inside your car is a very common occurrence, especially for those who commute to school or work. If you are lucky enough to have a spare key or an app for your smart phone that will unlock your doors and open the car, then this is a straightforward problem to resolve. If you don't have these tools, it's time to contact the experts.
Take a deep breath, and don't worry if you put your keys in your car. If you panic, it will be difficult to think straight or find a viable solution. It's also recommended to begin looking for locksmiths online near you who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure that a professional arrives quickly and make the experience less stressful.
It is best to contact your breakdown provider first, if you are an active member. They'll usually be in a position to gain access to your car without damaging it, but should they not be able to do so, they'll likely recommend a locksmith who is experienced in dealing with vehicles. Depending on your policy, this could be a free service or they could charge an agreed-upon fee for this type of service.
Another option is to speak with the locksmith directly, however it's important that you be cautious when doing this. You can locate a vetted and DBS-checked locksmith by searching online. You can also find out online if the locksmith you choose is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.
If they are locked out of the car, many people turn to their local garage. However, this could be more costly than hiring a professional. However, they can be less expensive than attempting to break into your car yourself, and usually complete the task much faster.
If you are in a public space and believe that there is a danger to other road users, or that there may be pets, elderly, or children in your car you should call the police. It is recommended to contact your breakdown provider, or an Auto Locksmith specialist first. They can give you advice and support.
Contact the police
It's easy to forget your keys in the car when you're rushing out of the door to work or to collect your kids from school, especially when you're away from home. If you're in a remote area miles from anyone it's an even more difficult and dangerous situation to find yourself in. You might be tempted to attempt to get your keys back yourself however this is generally not a good idea. Intentionally forcing locks or break windows could cause damage to your vehicle and cost you more money in the long run.
The first step is to assess the situation. Are you in a safe area? Where can you go to return to your car? Then, make sure that your keys really are locked inside the vehicle - it's surprising how often people forget to lock them in their vehicles when they visit a store or the post office. If you're able to confirm that your keys remain in the car, it's time to contact help.
If how do you unlock a car without a key cannot unlock your car, they can help you to find the solution. They can give advice and recommend professionals locksmith or garage. They'll also be able to inform you if your car has a remote lock feature and if it is able to be activated via your phone. 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 open the doors and boot.
It's not the best idea to lock your keys to your car the car, but it's a good idea to be prepared should this happens. You can swiftly resolve the issue by remaining at peace and evaluating all possibilities. Keep an extra car key in your car and the emergency number of your breakdown service provider in case of need, and consider installing a key lock hidden on your car to prevent future lockouts. You could also install an alarm system for your vehicle and have the keys reprogrammed to remove any previous owner's access. This will also stop thieves from using your vehicle as a vehicle to take their own sets of keys.
