What to Do If You Get Locked out of Your Car

It’s one of those situations which many people wouldn’t even consider until it happens, but losing a car key can cause you a major inconvenience, whether it be lateness to work or missing that important dental appointment.

In a poll of 2000 drivers by Lloyds Bank Car Insurance it was found that 26% of drivers have experienced losing a car key. Misplacing your car keys however, isn’t the only reason you might get locked out. The survey also found that 1 in 20 of those surveyed had experienced car key theft.

If you are unlucky enough to get locked out of your car in the cold this winter there is a local locksmith on hand to help you get moving again. Our tips will help you prevent loss and guide you in the right direction if you are left locked out.

1. Retrace your steps

Try remember where you last had your car keys, retrace your steps and see if your keys have been handed in anywhere.

A poll by Lloyds Bank Car Insurance found that of the drivers surveyed 1 in 5 had misplaced their car keys at work and 15% of drivers had lost their keys during a shopping trip. Simply checking back in the office or checking with shops which you have visited may save you a lot of time and expense. Remember also, always check your coat and trouser pockets twice to avoid a costly mistake!

2. Make sure you have a spare key

An easy solution to regaining access to your car after losing a key is using the spare, unfortunately not everyone has one.

When buying a second-hand car always check that you have a spare key included. If not, get a spare key made as soon as possible – you can never predict when you might need it.

Check with a local locksmith in your area to see if they offer a spare car key cutting service. Some locksmiths are able to come out and cut a new key for your car at the roadside. Store your spare key somewhere safe just in case you ever need it.

3. Keep your car keys safe

Misplacing your car key isn’t the only reason many people get locked out of their car. Car key theft is also a factor with 19% of drivers surveyed in the Lloyds Bank Car Insurance poll experiencing key theft from their bag.

To minimise this risk it is important to make sure your car keys are stored away securely, perhaps at the bottom of your bag where it is harder for a criminal to find or in a zipped-up inner compartment.

4. Check your insurance policy

If you lose your car keys it’s worth checking your insurance policy. Some insurance policies include key cover and many offer key cover as an option. According to Keycare it would cost £780 to replace the car keys for a 2009 VW Polo and £480 for a 2002 Renault Clio so it may save you a lot of time and money.

When buying key cover it is important to look into the policy to see what is being offered. The level of cover can vary considerably – some may charge an excess and some claims may impact your no claims discount. Key cover often covers the cost of locksmith charges (up to a specified amount) but it’s advisable to check with your insurer on their specific policy and procedure if you do have key cover and get locked out.

If you don’t have key cover and you find yourself locked out of your vehicle then contact a local locksmith to help get you back on the road.

5. Choose a safe place

Finding a safe place to store your car keys such as a kitchen cupboard or a tin and making sure that you always remember to store your keys in the same place each time can minimise your chance of losing the key.

Wherever you choose to keep your key, ensure that it is in a place out of sight and not in a place where the keys are easily visible through a downstairs window or through a letter box. Choosing a safe storage place at home can reduce the chance of not being able to find your keys during the rush the work or school!

6. Be careful!

Accidents happen and it’s easy to look back in hindsight but being careful where you leave your car keys could save you a lot of time and money. Many people actually lock their keys inside their car, especially in the boot. Before shutting the boot, always do a quick check that your keys are still on the outside!

7. Call a locksmith

If you do find yourself locked out of your vehicle without a spare key or key insurance cover don’t panic.

A local locksmith will be on hand to help you get moving again and they may be able to offer further advice on replacement locks or keys. Many locksmiths operate a 24/7 service meaning they can help even in the middle of the night. Have ready your car make and model, vehicle registration number, vehicle identification number which can be found on your V5 document, personal identification to help prove you own the car and your location so the locksmith can find you quickly and easily.

Find a local locksmith here to get you back inside your car as soon as possible, night or day.