The People Who Are Closest To Locked Keys In Car Uk Have Big Secrets To Share
How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
If you've locked your keys inside your car the UK, it can be an extremely stressful situation. There are many methods to retrieve your keys, however you should always exercise extreme caution when there are children or other people who are vulnerable inside.
The RAC recommends that you try to retrieve your keys before calling the police. DIY methods like these can cause damage to the interior of your car and should only be used as a last option.
Do It Yourself
Locking your keys in your car or boot is a common mistake that people make. It's even more annoying especially if you're miles away from home and are unable to get into the vehicle. Fortunately, there are various options for dealing with this problem. It is crucial to remain calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to find a safe way to get out of the vehicle without causing any damage to it. There are a variety of ways to do this, from using coathangers to apps and other methods. The most important thing is not to panic, as this can only increase the severity of the problem.
You can use a spare car key to open the vehicle. This is usually a good option for cars with locks that are manual, however you might need to consider different methods in the case of an automatic car. You can also try to use a long-reach tool, which is a kind of rod that has loop or hook on the end. This tool can be used to reach the door or boot lock and then unlock it.
Another option is to try to get the vehicle identification number (VIN) by taking a look at the dashboard panel on the dashboard. The VIN should be visible however sometimes it's hidden behind the plastic cover. You can also find your VIN on your insurance documents or on the insurance card you have proof of. If you can't find it, a locksmith could be required.
It is always a good idea to leave the spare key with a person you trust. It is then possible to get into your vehicle if you have forgotten your keys. This will spare you from calling a professional. You should also consider leaving the spare key in a safe place, such as your house.
Keep a slim Jim or any other automotive lockout tool in your vehicle. These tools can be useful for getting into your car in the case of an emergency and they are not expensive to purchase.
Call Your Breakdown Provider
A lot of cars come with roadside assistance as standard and if you're a member of the AA or RAC then this should be your first port of contact. This will typically cover the cost of calling a locksmith, and getting you back in your vehicle. Contact your provider directly if you aren't sure of what is covered by your breakdown policy or if there will be an additional cost.
It's also worth checking if you have 'key assist' as a part of your policy. It's usually an optional option however some companies like Start Rescue make it a mandatory element of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they'll pay for a locksmith to arrive and take your keys to your home or garage.
If you're locked out your car, it's crucial not to take any drastic measures to gain access. This could damage the vehicle and could cause insurance to be cancelled therefore it's not an ideal idea. You should also avoid breaking windows, as this can make it more difficult to enter the vehicle.
There's no reason to contact emergency services unless your car is in a dangerous situation or you have pets or children in the car. If there's a risk of heatstroke or other health problems, you should also call the police.
If you're worried about locking your keys in your car in the future, it's a good idea to leave the spare key with someone in your family or a friend. You can also use a smartphone app that will unlock your car without a physical key. Numerous manufacturers such as BMW, Mercedes, and Vauxhall offer this service. If you own a car with a smart feature you should also look at its companion app, which will allow you to control key features of your car remotely via an app for your smartphone. Many garages can make duplicate keys locked in car in ignition for you. If you have a trusted technician near it is an option.
Contact a locksmith
It is not unusual for people to lock their keys inside their vehicle, especially for those who commute. If you're fortunate enough to have a spare key or an app for your smart phone that can unlock your doors, then this is an easy situation to resolve. If you don't own the tools, it's time to call the experts.
Take a deep breath, and don't be afraid to put your keys in your car. If you panic, it will be more difficult to think clearly and come up with an answer. You can also look online for locksmiths in your area who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure a specialist arrives at your location quickly and make the process less stressful.
It is best to contact your breakdown provider first if you are already a member. They will often be capable of gaining access to your vehicle without causing damage to it, but if they are not able to do so, they'll likely recommend a locksmith with experience in vehicles. Depending on your policy, it could be free of charge, or they may have a set price for this service.
Another option is to call an individual locksmith, but it's crucial to be cautious when doing this. Searching on the internet will help you locate a reliable and experienced locksmith who is DBS checked and vetted. It is also recommended that your chosen locksmith has been independently certified by the Master Locksmiths Association, which can be verified online.
Many people also turn to garages in their area in the event of being locked out of their vehicle however, this could be more expensive than calling in a professional. They may be less expensive than trying your own luck to gain access to the vehicle and they can complete the task much quicker.
If you're stuck in a public space and you feel there is a risk to other road users or there are children, elderly people or pets inside the car then you should contact the police. But, it is recommended that you call your breakdown company or a specialist Auto Locksmith first before doing this, as they will be able to give assistance and guidance in these situations.
Call the police
When you're out and about it's easy to lose your keys in your car. This is especially true if you're not at home. This is a risky and stressful situation to be in if you are in the middle nowhere far from any one. It's tempting to find your keys on your own but it's not a wise idea. Trying to force locks or break windows could damage your vehicle and cost you more in the long run.
The first step is to take a look at the situation. Are you in a secure area and where can you go to return to your car? Make sure you double-check that your keys are locked inside the vehicle - it's amazing how often people leave keys in their vehicles when they visit an outlet or post office. If you're able to confirm that your keys are still in the car, it's time to call for assistance.
The police won't be able to unlock your vehicle, but they will assist you in finding an answer. They can offer advice and recommend an expert such as a locksmith or garage. They can also inform you if the vehicle comes with the option of locking via remote and if it is activated using your phone. Alternately, you can leave a spare key with someone who has the ability to access your vehicle and use the app on their phone to unlock the doors and boot.
While it's not ideal to lock your keys inside your car, it's best to be prepared for this situation. You can swiftly solve the issue by staying in a calm state and evaluating all of possible options. Keep a spare car key in your car as well as the emergency number of your breakdown service provider in case of need and think about installing a hidden key device on your vehicle to avoid future lockouts. You can also set up an alarm system on your vehicle and boot then have the keys reset to block any previous owner's access. This will prevent thieves from using the vehicle to steal your keys.
