Locked Out of Your Car? What to Do Right Now

# Locked Out of Your Car? What to Do Right Now

It happens to everyone at some point. You close the door, hear that click, and realise your keys are still inside. Or worse—you've lost them completely. Here's how to get back into your car safely and quickly.

First: Stay Calm and Assess

Before doing anything else:

1. Check all doors: Sometimes one is unlocked 2. Check the boot: Some boots open independently 3. Check with passengers: Anyone else have a key? 4. Look through windows: Can you see where the keys are?

If you have a child or pet locked inside, call 999 immediately. Emergency services will break in for you—and it's the right call.

Your Options for Getting Back In

Option 1: Spare Key

• **Do you have a spare key?**
• At home?
• With a family member?
• At work?

If someone can bring it to you within a reasonable time, this is the cheapest option. While you wait, stay with your vehicle.

Option 2: Keyless Entry / Connected Car

• **Many modern cars have:**
• **Manufacturer apps** (BMW, Mercedes, Tesla, Ford, etc.) that can unlock remotely
• **Subscription services** that include remote unlock
• **OnStar, BMW Assist, or similar** — call their helpline

Check your phone for any connected car apps. Some even work if your phone isn't the registered device, as long as you can verify ownership.

Option 3: Roadside Assistance (If You Have It)

• **Check if you have cover through:**
• Your car insurance (many policies include breakdown cover)
• Your bank account (premium accounts often include it)
• Credit cards (some include travel assistance)
• AA, RAC, Green Flag membership

If you have existing cover, this could be "free" (you've already paid for it). Wait times vary—could be 30 minutes to 2 hours.

Option 4: Call a Locksmith or Mobile Mechanic

• **This is often the fastest option:**
• Professional auto locksmiths can open most cars
• Mobile mechanics often offer lockout services
• Usually arrive within 30 minutes
• No need for membership

What NOT to Do

• ❌ **Don't try to break in yourself**
• You'll likely trigger the alarm
• Risk damaging the door, window, or lock mechanism
• Could look suspicious and attract police attention
• May void your insurance

• ❌ **Don't use coat hangers or tools from YouTube**
• Modern cars have sophisticated locks and anti-theft systems
• DIY methods rarely work on cars made after 2005
• Risk serious damage to weather seals and door mechanisms

• ❌ **Don't break the window (unless emergency)**
• Window replacement costs £100-300+
• Insurance excess may be higher than the locksmith cost
• Gets water and debris inside your car

How Professional Lockouts Work

A trained auto locksmith or mechanic will:

1. Verify your identity: Driver's licence and registration 2. Assess the lock type: Electronic, manual, or keyless 3. Use specialised tools: Air wedges, long-reach tools, or decoder tools 4. Open without damage: Professionals know the techniques

The whole process usually takes 5-15 minutes once they arrive.

How Much Does Lockout Service Cost?

| Scenario | Typical Cost | |----------|--------------| | Basic lockout (keys visible inside) | £50-80 | | Lockout (keys not visible) | £70-100 | | Lost key - open + new key cut | £150-300 | | Lost key - key programming | £100-200 additional | | After hours / weekend | +£20-40 |

Prices vary by location and vehicle type. Get a quote before agreeing to any service.

Lost Your Keys Completely?

If you've actually lost your keys (not just locked them in):

Short term: 1. Get the car opened by a locksmith 2. Have them disable the lost key if possible 3. Get a temporary solution to drive home

Long term: 1. Order a replacement from your dealer or auto locksmith 2. New keys need programming to your car's immobiliser 3. Consider getting a spare cut at the same time

Important: If your keys were stolen (not lost), consider replacing your locks entirely and inform your insurance.

Preventing Future Lockouts

• **Spare key**: Keep one at home, with a trusted person, or in a magnetic key box
• **Key finder**: Attach an AirTag, Tile, or similar to your keys
• **Routine**: Always do a "keys, phone, wallet" check before closing doors
• **Smart locks**: Some aftermarket systems let you unlock via phone app

Get Help Now

Locked out and need help fast?

1. Open the Hault app 2. Select "Locked Out / Lost Keys" 3. Get matched with a nearby professional 4. Track their arrival in real-time

Most arrive within 30 minutes. Verified professionals, clear pricing, no surprises.

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*Hault connects you with trusted roadside professionals across the UK. Download the app before you need it—and you'll never be stuck for long.*