It can be incredibly frustrating and stressful to find yourself in a situation where you’ve accidentally locked inside your car key. If you’re in Leicester and facing this problem, you’re not alone—this happens to thousands of drivers every year. Whether you’re in a rush to get somewhere or stranded in an unfamiliar location, knowing what to do next is essential. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the best steps to take What to Do If You Locked Your Keys in Your Car in Leicester? From DIY solutions to professional assistance, we’ll cover everything to help you get back on the road quickly and safely.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
The first and most important step is to stay calm. Panic can cloud your judgment, making it harder to find a solution. Take a deep breath and assess the situation carefully. Check if any doors are unlocked, as sometimes people accidentally leave one door open. Also, see if the trunk or boot is accessible—some car models allow access to the interior through the trunk. If your car has keyless entry, ensure that the key fob is not malfunctioning and try pressing the unlock button again.
If you have a spare key at home or with a friend or family member, this is the easiest solution. Call someone you trust to bring you the spare key. However, if this is not an option, continue reading to explore other solutions.
Check for Alternative Entry Points
Before taking drastic measures, carefully inspect your car for any possible entry points. Some older cars may have slightly open windows or doors that don’t always latch properly. If you have a sunroof, check if it is slightly open enough to access the lock mechanism. However, avoid forcing anything open, as this could damage your car and lead to costly repairs.
Modern vehicles have advanced locking systems designed to prevent break-ins. If your car has an automatic locking system, trying to force entry could activate security features that may make it even more difficult to regain access. If no alternative entry points are available, it’s time to consider the next steps.
Contact Roadside Assistance Services
If you have a breakdown cover with a provider like the RAC, AA, or Green Flag, calling their roadside assistance service is often the best course of action. These professionals are trained to unlock vehicles without causing damage. Many insurance policies also include roadside assistance, so check if your insurance provider offers this service.
When you contact your roadside assistance provider, be ready to provide details about your location, the make and model of your car, and any other relevant information. Depending on the time of day and location, response times can vary, but in most cases, help should arrive within an hour.
Call a Professional Locksmith in Leicester
If you don’t have roadside assistance, your next best option is to call a professional locksmith in Leicester. Auto locksmiths specialize in unlocking vehicles and can often reach you quickly. Many locksmiths offer 24/7 emergency services, so no matter when you’re locked out, they can help.
An experienced locksmith can unlock your car without damaging the lock mechanism. Additionally, if your keys are lost or broken inside the lock, they can cut and program a new key on-site. It’s a good idea to research and save the contact details of a reputable local locksmith in Leicester before you actually need one. Some well-known locksmith services in Leicester include:
- Leicester Auto Locksmiths
- AD Auto Locksmith
- DLS Locksmiths
When contacting a locksmith, ensure they are licensed and have good customer reviews to avoid scams or overcharging.
Use DIY Unlocking Methods (If Safe)
If professional help is not immediately available, you might consider a few DIY unlocking techniques. However, these should be attempted with caution, as improper methods can damage your vehicle. Some common DIY techniques include:
Using a Shoelace (For Older Cars)
This method only works on older cars with pull-up locks. If you have a shoelace or a piece of strong string, create a loop and slide it inside the door crack. Try to maneuver the loop around the lock and pull it upwards to unlock the door.
Using a Slim Jim
A slim jim is a specialized tool used by locksmiths and some roadside assistance professionals to unlock car doors. If you happen to have one or can fashion a similar tool from a coat hanger, you can try sliding it between the window and the door to manipulate the locking mechanism. However, modern cars have protective barriers to prevent this method from working.
Using a Wedge and Rod
If you have access to a plastic or rubber wedge and a long rod, you can carefully pry the door open slightly and use the rod to press the unlock button. Be extremely careful with this method, as excessive force can bend the door frame or damage the weather stripping.
Contact the Car Manufacturer or Dealership
If your car is a newer model with advanced electronic locks, the manufacturer or dealership may be able to provide assistance. Some car brands offer remote unlocking services if you can verify your ownership. Call your dealership or the manufacturer’s customer service line to check if they can unlock your vehicle remotely.
For keyless entry cars, some manufacturers offer mobile apps that allow you to unlock the car using your phone. If you have set this up in advance, you may be able to unlock your car instantly.
Call the Police (If Necessary)
In certain emergency situations, calling the police might be an option. If you’ve locked your keys inside the car while a child, pet, or vulnerable person is inside, call 999 immediately. In extreme weather conditions, being locked inside a vehicle can quickly become a life-threatening situation.
Police officers may be able to unlock your car, but they typically prioritize emergencies. If there is no immediate danger, they may advise you to contact a locksmith or roadside assistance instead.
Preventing Future Lockouts
Once you’ve resolved the issue, take steps to prevent this from happening again in the future. Consider the following preventive measures:
- Keep a Spare Key: Store a spare key in your home, with a trusted friend, or in a secure location.
- Use a Key Finder Device: Attach a Bluetooth key tracker like a Tile or Apple AirTag to your car keys.
- Develop a Routine: Before locking your car, make it a habit to check that you have your keys in hand.
- Enable Keyless Entry Features: If your car has a mobile app for unlocking, set it up in advance.
- Use a Magnetic Key Holder: Some people use magnetic key holders hidden under the car, but be cautious about security risks.
Benefits About What to Do If You Locked Your Keys in Your Car in Leicester?
Getting locked out of your car in Leicester can be stressful, but knowing the benefits of professional assistance can make the situation easier to handle. One of the key advantages of calling an auto locksmith is their quick response time, with many arriving within 30 to 60 minutes to help you regain access without causing damage to your vehicle. These professionals are trained to handle various car models, including modern keyless entry systems, ensuring a safe and non-destructive unlocking process.
Additionally, hiring a locksmith can be more cost-effective than attempting DIY methods, which may lead to expensive repairs if the lock or window gets damaged. Many locksmiths operate 24/7 emergency services, providing support even during late hours or in inconvenient locations. If your car insurance includes roadside assistance, the cost of unlocking your vehicle may be covered, further reducing your expenses. Another major benefit is that locksmiths can cut and program new keys on-site if your keys are lost or broken, saving you the hassle of towing your car to a dealership. By relying on a professional, you can ensure a fast, efficient, and hassle-free solution to a locked car situation in Leicester
Frequently Asked Question About What to Do If You Locked Your Keys in Your Car in Leicester?
What should I do first if I lock my keys in my car?
Stay calm and check if any doors or the boot (trunk) are unlocked. If all doors are locked, consider whether you have a spare key accessible nearby. If not, assess your options for professional help.
Can I unlock my car myself?
It depends on the type of car. Older models may be easier to unlock using a coat hanger or wedge tool, but modern cars have advanced security features that make DIY unlocking difficult and risky. Attempting to unlock it yourself may damage the lock or window.
Who should I call for help?
You can contact:
- A professional auto locksmith (fastest and safest option)
- Your breakdown recovery service (such as AA, RAC, or Green Flag)
- Your car insurance provider (some policies include lockout assistance)
- The police (only in emergencies, such as a child or pet trapped inside)
How quickly can an auto locksmith reach me in Leicester?
Most professional locksmiths in Leicester offer emergency services and can arrive within 30 to 60 minutes, depending on traffic and location.
How much does it cost to unlock a locked car?
The price depends on the car model and locksmith service. In Leicester, unlocking a car can cost anywhere from £50 to £150. Premium or high-security cars may have higher fees.
Does my car insurance cover the cost of unlocking my vehicle?
Some insurance policies include roadside assistance for lockouts, while others do not. Check your policy or call your provider to confirm.
Can a locksmith open any car model?
Yes, most auto locksmiths in Leicester are trained to unlock a wide range of vehicles, including modern keyless entry systems and high-security locks.
What if my key is inside the boot (trunk)?
If the main cabin is locked but the boot is accessible, some locksmiths can unlock it directly. Otherwise, they may need to pick the door lock first.
What should I do if my key is broken inside the lock?
Do not try to extract it yourself, as you might push the broken piece further in. Call an auto locksmith who has the proper tools to remove the broken key safely.
Can I call the police for help?
Police in Leicester generally do not assist with car lockouts unless there is an emergency, such as a child, pet, or vulnerable person trapped insideHow can I prevent locking my keys in my car in the future?
- Always check before closing the door.
- Keep a spare key at home or with a trusted person.
- Use a keyless entry system or a mobile app if available.
- Attach a key tracker to your keyring.
What should I do if my car has keyless entry and I’m locked out?
Some keyless entry systems allow remote unlocking via a smartphone app. If this option is unavailable, call a locksmith or roadside assistance service.
Conclusion
Being locked out of your car in Leicester can be an inconvenient and stressful experience, but there are multiple solutions available. Whether you opt for professional assistance from a locksmith, use DIY methods, or contact roadside services, acting quickly and calmly will help you regain access to your vehicle. To avoid future lockouts, take proactive steps like carrying a spare key or using technology to keep track of your keys. By being prepared, you can ensure that an accidental lockout doesn’t disrupt your plans for long