It happens to everyone eventually. You close the door, hear the click, and realise the keys are on the seat — or the key fob battery died, or you've simply lost them. Whatever the reason, being locked out of your car is stressful. Here's exactly what to do, step by step.
Step 1 — Don't Panic (and Don't Force It)
The worst thing you can do is try to force the door, wedge a coat hanger in the window frame, or follow any "hack" you've seen online. Modern cars have strong door seals and multi-point locking — you'll damage the rubber seal, the door card, or the locking mechanism long before you get it open. That damage costs far more to repair than a professional opening.
Leave the car exactly as it is and make the calls below.
Step 2 — Check the Obvious Things First
- Is there another door unlocked? Check all four doors and the boot.
- Do you have a spare key at home? If someone can bring it, that's the simplest solution.
- Is there a keypad entry on the door? Some Ford and Land Rover models have a code entry panel.
- Do you use a manufacturer app (BMW Connected, VW App Connect, Ford Pass)? Some allow remote unlocking from your phone.
If none of those work — call a specialist.
Step 3 — Call a Specialist Auto Locksmith
A specialist auto locksmith carries the right tools to open your car without damage. We use long-reach tools, air wedges, and internal manipulation tools — the same equipment used by AA and RAC, without the waiting time or callout fees. For most vehicles, we'll have you back in within 10–20 minutes of arriving.
Call 07783 940506 now — we cover the Midlands and Northamptonshire 24/7.
What About the RAC or AA?
If you're a member, they can help. Average RAC/AA response times for non-emergency lockouts can be 45–90 minutes, and if they can't open the car they'll recover it to a dealer. A dedicated auto locksmith specialist often arrives faster and has more specific equipment for vehicle entry. If you're not already a member, joining and waiting is slower and more expensive than calling a locksmith directly.
What About Insurance?
Check your motor insurance policy — some comprehensive policies include emergency lockout cover as a free or low-cost add-on. Call your insurer while you wait for the locksmith. If the excess on your policy is £100+, it's often cheaper and faster to pay the locksmith directly (and preserve your no-claims bonus).
Step 4 — After You're Back In
Once you're back in your car, think about getting a spare key cut and programmed. A spare takes 30–60 minutes and costs a fraction of an emergency call-out. If this has happened once, it will happen again. See our spare key cutting service.
Special Cases
Keys locked in with engine running
Call us immediately — this is a priority job, especially in summer heat or if a child or pet is inside.
Key broken in the lock
Do not try to pull it out yourself — this pushes it deeper. We carry extraction tools for broken keys and can extract and replace on the same visit. See our key repair service.
Key lost, not just locked in
If the key is genuinely lost (not just locked inside), you'll need a replacement key programmed. See our guide on car key replacement costs, or read about our all keys lost service.
Covering the Midlands and Northamptonshire
We cover Coventry, Rugby, Daventry, Northampton, Leamington Spa, Birmingham and all surrounding areas — 24/7, no call-out fee. Response time is typically 20–30 minutes.