Locked Out of Your Car? Here's What to Do (UK Guide 2026)

# Locked Out of Your Car? Here's What to Do

It happens to the best of us. One moment you're stepping out of your car, the next you're staring through the window at your keys sitting on the seat. Being locked out of your car is frustrating, but it's not the end of the world.

This guide covers everything you need to know about getting back into your car safely and legally in the UK.

Don't Panic: Assess the Situation First

Before you do anything, take a breath and check these things:

1. Check All Doors and Windows It sounds obvious, but walk around your car and try every door. Check the boot. Is a window slightly open? You might find an easy way in.

2. Check for a Spare Key Do you have a spare key at home? Can someone bring it to you? This is often the simplest solution if you're not far from home.

3. Check Your Insurance or Breakdown Cover Most UK breakdown policies include lockout assistance. Check your AA, RAC, or Green Flag membership. Many car insurance policies now include breakdown cover as standard.

Your Options When Locked Out

Option 1: Call a Professional Locksmith (Recommended)

A qualified auto locksmith can get you into your car without causing damage. They use specialist tools designed for vehicle entry.

• **What to expect:**
• **Average wait time:** 30-60 minutes
• **Average cost:** £80-£150
• **Time to unlock:** Usually 5-15 minutes once they arrive

• **Finding a legitimate locksmith:**
• Look for Master Locksmith Association (MLA) members
• Ask for ID and proof of qualification
• Get a quote before they start work
• Check Google reviews

Option 2: Use Your Breakdown Service

If you have AA, RAC, Green Flag, or similar cover:

• **AA:** 0800 887 766
• **RAC:** 0330 159 1111
• **Green Flag:** 0345 246 2766

Most policies cover lockouts, but check if there's an excess or call-out limit.

Option 3: Call Your Car Manufacturer

Some modern cars with connected services (BMW Connected, Mercedes me, Tesla app) allow remote unlocking. Check if your car has this feature.

Option 4: Use Hault

The Hault app connects you with vetted local providers who can reach you in as little as 15 minutes. You'll see the price upfront, track their arrival, and pay through the app.

• **Why drivers choose Hault:**
• Average 15-minute response time
• Fixed, transparent pricing
• Vetted, background-checked providers
• Real-time tracking
• 4.9★ average rating

Methods You Should NEVER Use

DON'T Try to "Slim Jim" Your Car

• Those videos of people sliding a metal strip down the door? Modern cars have anti-theft mechanisms that make this nearly impossible. You'll likely:
• Damage the door panel
• Break the window mechanism
• Trigger the alarm
• Not get in anyway

DON'T Break a Window (Unless It's an Emergency)

• Breaking a window should only be considered if:
• A child or pet is trapped inside in heat
• There's a genuine medical emergency

Window replacement costs £150-£400+, and you'll need to secure your car immediately after.

DON'T Use Wire Coat Hangers

This damages your car's door seal, weather stripping, and paint. It rarely works on modern vehicles anyway.

What If Your Keys Are Lost (Not Just Locked In)?

Lost keys are a different problem from locked-in keys:

For Standard Keys A locksmith can create a new key, but they'll need: - Proof of ownership (V5C logbook) - Photo ID - Access to the car's lock (to decode it)

Cost: £100-£200 for a standard key

For Electronic Key Fobs Replacing a key fob is more complex and expensive: - **Through a dealer:** £200-£400+ - **Through an auto locksmith:** £150-£300 - May take several days if ordered from the manufacturer

For Keyless Entry Systems These are the most expensive to replace (£300-£500+) and usually need dealer programming.

Prevention: How to Avoid Future Lockouts

1. Get a Spare Key Made A spare key costs £50-£150 depending on your car. Keep it: - At home in a safe place - With a trusted friend or family member - In a magnetic key box (hidden on the car exterior)

2. Use a Tile or AirTag Attach a Bluetooth tracker to your keys. If you lock them in the car, at least you'll know exactly where they are.

3. Create a Habit Always check for your keys before closing the car door. Make it a physical habit: pat your pocket before you shut the door.

4. Use Your Phone Many modern cars support smartphone apps that can lock and unlock doors. Set this up before you need it.

What About Smart Keys and Keyless Entry?

Can You Get Locked Out of a Keyless Car?

• Yes, it can happen:
• **Dead key fob battery:** The car won't detect the key
• **Software glitch:** The system fails to recognise the key
• **Key inside, system confused:** Rare, but possible

Dead Key Fob Battery Solution

Most keyless cars have a backup: 1. Look for a physical key inside the fob (usually a hidden release button) 2. Find the manual keyhole on your door (often hidden under a cap near the handle) 3. Start the car by placing the dead fob against the start button

Check your owner's manual for your specific car's backup method.

Lockout Costs Compared

| Service | Average Wait | Average Cost | |---------|--------------|--------------| | AA/RAC (with membership) | 45-90 min | £0-50 (may have excess) | | Independent Locksmith | 30-60 min | £80-150 | | Hault | 15-30 min | £50-90 | | Dealer (during hours) | Appointment | £100-200 |

FAQs

How much does a locksmith cost for a car? In the UK, expect to pay £80-£150 for a standard car lockout. Prices vary by location, time of day, and vehicle type. Evening and weekend call-outs typically cost more.

Will a locksmith damage my car? A qualified auto locksmith should be able to open your car without causing any damage. Ask if they guarantee damage-free entry.

How long does it take to unlock a car? Once a locksmith arrives, most cars can be opened in 5-15 minutes. Total time (including waiting) is usually 30-90 minutes.

Can I claim car lockout on insurance? Some car insurance policies include breakdown cover that covers lockouts. Check your policy documents or call your insurer.

What if I'm locked out at night? 24/7 locksmith services are available but often charge a premium (£20-50 extra). Breakdown services and Hault operate 24/7 with no additional fees.

The Bottom Line

Being locked out of your car is stressful but solvable. Your best options are:

1. Check for a spare key — the simplest solution 2. Use your breakdown cover — if you have it 3. Call a qualified locksmith — MLA members are trustworthy 4. Use Hault — fastest average response time, transparent pricing

Whatever you do, don't try DIY methods that could damage your car or look suspicious to passers-by.

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*Need help now? Download the Hault app and get connected with a lockout specialist in minutes. Available 24/7 across the UK.*