Getting locked out of your car can happen to anyone. Whether the keys are inside, misplaced, or the lock has failed, knowing how to respond calmly can save time and stress. This guide covers the first steps, safe solutions, and tips to help prevent future lockouts.
First Steps to Take
When you first realise you’re locked out, don’t panic. Instead, start with some simple checks. Walk around the car and test all doors, as well as the boot. It’s surprising how often one door may remain unlocked while the others are secured. If you find an entry point, you’ll save yourself a lot of trouble.
If you have a spare key, now is the time to use it. Many drivers keep one at home or with a trusted family member. Although it might take a little longer to retrieve, it is usually the safest and most cost-effective solution. If your car uses a smart fob, try pressing the unlock button from different angles or stand closer to the car, as a weak battery may still work within short range.
It’s also worth checking your pockets, bags, or coat carefully. Lockouts often occur because keys are misplaced rather than lost entirely. Slowing down and retracing your steps may save you the hassle of calling for professional help.
Immediate Solutions
If the basic checks don’t solve the issue, there are still several safe ways to get back into your car. If you have breakdown cover, contact your provider. Many policies include roadside assistance for vehicle lockouts, and a professional technician can usually open your car without damage.
Some newer vehicles come with mobile apps that connect directly to the car, allowing you to unlock the doors remotely. If your model supports this, it can be one of the quickest solutions. For older vehicles or where breakdown cover doesn’t apply, calling a professional auto locksmith is often the most reliable option. Locksmiths are trained to unlock cars without causing harm to the locks, windows, or bodywork, and they can also supply replacement keys if yours are lost or broken.
What you should avoid is forcing the lock, trying to use improvised tools, or attempting to pry a window open. These methods often cause expensive damage and can even trigger your car alarm or immobiliser, making the situation worse.
Safety Considerations
Being locked out isn’t just inconvenient – in some cases, it can be a genuine safety concern. If you are stranded late at night, during poor weather, or in an isolated area, it’s best to move to a safe, well-lit location while you wait for help. This could be a nearby shop, café, petrol station, or even just a spot where you feel less vulnerable.
If a child, elderly person, or pet is trapped inside the car, the situation is an emergency. Cars heat up rapidly in the sun and can also become dangerously cold in winter. In these circumstances, you should call the emergency services immediately. If there is immediate danger and help cannot arrive quickly, breaking a side window may be necessary – but this should be done only as a last resort and with caution to avoid injury.
Preventing Future Lockouts
Although car lockouts can’t always be avoided, a few good habits can significantly reduce the chances of it happening again. Keeping a spare key at home or with someone you trust is the most practical solution. Some drivers also choose to use a small magnetic key box hidden under the car, though this should be done carefully to avoid security risks.
For cars with smart keys or remote fobs, it’s a good idea to change the battery regularly before it fails completely. Many car manuals will list the correct battery type and how often it should be replaced. If your vehicle has settings that prevent doors from locking when the key is inside, check that this feature is activated during your next service.
Forming simple habits can also help. For example, always make sure you have your keys in hand before closing the doors or boot. Placing them on top of your bag instead of inside it is another small step that can prevent accidental lockouts. Finally, storing your keys away from doors and windows at home not only reduces the risk of theft but also avoids signal interference or accidental locking from nearby electronics.
You might also want to invest in a Faraday pouch if your car uses keyless entry. These pouches block wireless signals, keeping your car safe from relay theft while also preventing unintentional locking or unlocking.
By taking these precautions, you can minimise the risk of future lockouts and enjoy greater confidence every time you set off. A little forward planning can make all the difference when it comes to saving time, stress, and money.
Vehicle Keys And Electrical provide fast and reliable emergency auto locksmith services across Lancaster and Lancashire. From car unlocking to key replacement and electrical faults, our team ensure you’re back on the road quickly and safely.
