How to Deal With Locked Keys in Car UK
If you've locked your keys in your car UK, it can be an extremely stressful experience. There are many options to get your keys back but you should always use extreme caution, especially when there are children or vulnerable individuals locked inside.
The RAC recommends that you attempt to recover your keys by yourself prior to calling the police. DIY methods like these can cause damage to the interior of your vehicle and should only be used as a final resort.
Do It Yourself
It's easy to lock your keys in the car's boot or in the trunk. It's even more inconvenient especially if you're far from home and can't easily access the vehicle. There are a variety of options to deal with this problem. It is crucial to remain calm and evaluate the situation. The next step is to find a way out of the car without damaging it. There are many different strategies to do this, ranging from using coat hangers to testing different methods and apps. The most important thing to remember is not to panic, as this can only make the situation worse.
If you have a spare key, you can use this to get into the car. This is usually a great alternative for cars that have locks that are manual, however you may have to try other methods in the event of a car that is automated. You can also make use of an extended reach tool, which is a rod with an end loop or hook at the end. This can be used to reach the door or lock for boot and then unlock it.
Another option is to try to locate the vehicle identification number (VIN) by taking a look at the dashboard panel on the dash. The number should be displayed however sometimes it's hidden behind a plastic cover. You can also locate your VIN on your insurance documents or on your insurance proof card. If you can't find it, you might have to call a locksmith.
Always leave an extra car key with someone who you are confident. You can then access your vehicle in case you've forgotten your keys. This will save you from having to call a professional. It is also advisable to keep the spare key in a secure place, such as your house.
https://www.g28carkeys.co.uk/car-opening-unlock-your-vehicle/ 's recommended to keep a slim jim or any other lockout tool for your vehicle in your vehicle. These tools are useful to gain access to your car in the case of an emergency and they are not expensive to purchase.
Contact Your Breakdown Provider
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Roadside assistance is provided in many cars as standard. If you're a member of AA or RAC that is the first place you call. It will usually cover the cost of contacting a locksmith and getting you back in your car. Contact your service directly if you are not sure the coverage of your breakdown policy, or if there will be an additional cost.
You should also check whether your policy provides 'key assistance'. This is often an optional add-on however some providers such as Start Rescue include it as an essential part of their policies. If you lock your keys in your car, they will pay for a locksmith to come out and transport your keys to your home or garage.
When you're locked out of your car, it's crucial not to take drastic steps to gain access. This can damage the vehicle and make your insurance invalid and is therefore not a good idea. Avoid breaking windows as this 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 think there's a risk of heatstroke, or any other health issue.
If you're worried about locking your keys in your car in future it's a good idea to leave a spare key with an individual from your family or with a friend. You can also unlock your car using an app for smartphones. This service is provided by many manufacturers such as BMW Mercedes and Vauxhall. It is also worth considering the "companion app" in the event that you own a smart car. This allows you to remotely control the key features of your car via an application. Alternatively, many garages can make a duplicate key for you, so if you have a trusted mechanic nearby then this might be a viable option.
Call a Locksmith
It is not uncommon for people to lock their keys in their car, especially those who commute. If you're fortunate enough to have a spare key or an app for your smartphone that can unlock the doors, then this is a simple problem to solve. If you don't own these tools, it's time to talk to 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 straight or find a viable solution. It is also an excellent idea to begin looking online for locksmiths close to you who specialize in vehicle access. This will ensure a specialist will arrive quickly and make the situation less stressful.
It is best to contact your breakdown provider first if you are an active member. They will often be capable of gaining access to your car without damaging it, but if they are not able to do this, they'll recommend a locksmith with experience in dealing with vehicles. The service could be offered free of charge or for an agreed-upon cost, based on the insurance policy you have.
Another option is to contact a locksmith directly, but it's crucial to do this with caution. You can locate a vetted and DBS-checked locksmith by searching on the internet. You can also find out online to see if the locksmith you select is independently accredited by the Master Locksmiths Association.
Many people also go to garages in their area when they are locked out of their vehicle but this is more expensive than calling a professional. However, they can still be cheaper than trying to break into the car yourself, and often get the job done faster.
In the end, if you're stuck in a public place and feel that there is a risk 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 always recommended to contact your breakdown service provider or a specialist Auto Locksmith first before doing this, as they will be able to give advice and support in these scenarios.
Contact the police
If you're on the move it's easy to lose your keys in your car. This is especially true when you're not at home. If you're in a remote area miles from anyone it's 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 good idea. Doing anything to force locks or break windows can cause damage to your vehicle, and cost you more in the end.
The first step is to examine the situation. Are you in a secure location and where can you go for a return trip to your vehicle? Check that your keys are locked inside the car. It's astonishing how many people forget their keys in their cars as they go to the shop or the post office. If you're able to verify that your keys are in the vehicle then it's time to contact assistance.
The police will not be in a position to unlock your vehicle, but they will assist you in finding an answer. They can offer suggestions and recommend professionals, such as a garage or locksmith. They can also inform you if the vehicle has a remote locking feature and if it can be activated via your smartphone. You can also leave a spare car key with someone who has access to your vehicle. They can then use an app on their smartphone to open the doors or open the boot.
While it's never ideal to lock your keys inside your car, it's best to be prepared for the possibility. By being calm and evaluating your options, you can quickly solve the issue. To prevent future lockouts, always carry an extra key. Keep the emergency number of your breakdown service in the event of an emergency and consider purchasing an invisible key device which can be connected to your car. You can also install an alarm system in your vehicle and have the car keys reprogrammed to remove any previous owner's access. This will prevent thieves from using the car to steal their own keys.
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