What to Do When You Are Locked Out of Your Car

Locked Out of Your Car? Here’s What to Do

Car lockouts happen to the best of us. Whether you’ve left your keys on the seat, lost them entirely, or your remote fob has stopped working, being locked out of your vehicle is frustrating - but it’s a solvable problem. The key is to stay calm and work through your options methodically.

For DIY unlocking methods and techniques, see our guide on how to unlock a car door without a key.

Step 1: Assess the Situation

Before taking any action, ask yourself:

Why am I locked out? Is it lost keys, keys locked inside, a broken lock, or an electronic fault?
Is this an emergency - for example, is a child or pet trapped inside?
Do I have a spare key nearby?
Am I in a safe location?

If a child or animal is locked inside a hot car, call 999 immediately. Don’t wait.

If you’re on a busy road or in an unsafe area, prioritise getting to safety first. Panicking will cloud your judgement and lead to rushed decisions that may cause damage or cost you more in the long run.

Common Causes of Car Lockouts

Lost or Misplaced Keys

If you genuinely cannot find your keys, your best options are to use a spare or contact an auto locksmith in London who can produce a new key on-site. Keys are easy to misplace when in a rush or carrying multiple bags.

Keys Locked Inside the Vehicle

This is the most common scenario and usually the result of a momentary distraction when exiting the car. Before attempting anything, check whether any door, window, or the boot is unlocked - you may have a way in already.

Broken Lock or Key

If the key has snapped in the lock or the lock mechanism itself is faulty, do not attempt to force it. Worn locks can seize or jam, preventing entry even with the correct key. A professional locksmith can extract broken keys and repair or replace locks without damaging your vehicle.

Electronic Key Fob Problems

A dead battery or damaged fob can leave you unable to unlock the car remotely. Try replacing the battery first - most fobs give a warning with reduced range before they stop working entirely. If the key still won’t unlock the car, the fob may need reprogramming - a service any qualified auto locksmith can carry out quickly.

DIY Methods (Use With Caution)

These techniques can work in some situations, but carry a real risk of damaging your car’s door seals, paintwork, or lock mechanism. Only attempt them if you’re confident doing so:

Shoelace or string loop - Works on older vehicles with upright, pull-up lock buttons. Create a slipknot in the middle of a length of cord, feed it through the corner of the door jamb, loop it around the lock knob, and pull upward. Does not work on modern side-entry or electronic locks.
Coat hanger method - Straighten a wire coat hanger, make a small hook at one end, and slide it between the window and weather stripping to pull the internal control arm.
Plastic wedge and rod - Carefully wedge the door open slightly to create a gap, then insert a long rod to press the unlock button.
Inflatable wedge - Similar to above but uses an inflatable bag to create the gap more gently. Consumer versions are available but easy to misuse - over-inflating the wedge can permanently deform the door frame.
Boot access - Some cars with manual locks have an unlocked boot even when doors are locked. If you can access the boot, you may be able to reach through into the cabin.

Important: All DIY methods carry a risk of damage to your vehicle, potential voiding of insurance claims, and - on modern cars - may trigger security systems. If you’re unsure, stop and call a professional. The cost of a locksmith is far less than the cost of repairing a damaged door frame or shattered window.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Breaking a window - This is dangerous, expensive to repair, and entirely unnecessary. A professional locksmith can open your car without any damage.
Using a Slim Jim on a modern car - Slim Jims can damage electronic components inside the door panel, including window motors and lock actuators. On cars manufactured after 2000, the risk is significant.
Calling the dealership first - Main dealers typically charge 30-50% more than independent locksmiths and may require you to have the car towed to them.
Leaving the scene - If you leave your vehicle unattended while locked, you increase the risk of theft or a parking fine. Stay with the car if possible.

When to Call a Professional

An emergency auto locksmith is your safest and most reliable option in most lockout situations. Professional locksmiths carry specialist tools that open vehicles without causing any damage, and they can resolve most lockouts within 5-15 minutes.

They can also:

Cut and programme replacement keys on-site
Extract broken keys from locks and ignitions
Repair or replace faulty lock mechanisms
Provide a spare key while they’re there

Other options include your roadside assistance provider (AA, RAC, or your insurer), though response times can vary significantly.

What Information to Have Ready

When you call an auto locksmith, having the following details to hand speeds up the process:

Vehicle make, model, and year - e.g. “2021 Ford Focus” - this determines the lock type and programming requirements
Registration number - allows the locksmith to verify the vehicle and prepare the correct key blank or tools
Location - a precise address or landmark helps the locksmith find you quickly
Whether the car is locked or accessible - if a window is open, different tools may be used
Any existing damage - if the lock has already been tampered with or damaged, let the locksmith know

Most auto locksmiths can provide an estimated arrival time and cost over the phone.

How to Choose a Trustworthy Locksmith

Not all locksmiths are equal. When calling one for a car lockout:

Ask for a price estimate before they begin work
Check for membership of the Master Locksmiths Association (MLA)
Read Google reviews - look for consistent positive feedback specifically about auto locksmith work
Be wary of suspiciously low quotes that increase dramatically once the locksmith arrives

See our locksmith price list for transparent pricing before you call.

Lockout FAQs

How much does a locksmith charge to open a car? Typically £50-£150, depending on the vehicle type and time of day. Emergency callouts outside normal hours may carry an additional charge.

Can a locksmith make a new key on the spot? In most cases, yes - an equipped auto locksmith carries key cutting and programming equipment in their van. For more on this, our guide to mobile car key cutting in the UK explains what to expect.

Does car insurance cover lockouts? Many comprehensive insurance policies and breakdown cover packages include lockout assistance. Check your policy documents or call your insurer before booking a locksmith.

How long does it take? An experienced auto locksmith typically opens a car in 5-15 minutes after arriving on-site.

How to Prevent Future Lockouts

For advice on improving your car’s security while dealing with a lockout, see our guide on how to increase the security of your car.

Keep a spare key at home or with a trusted person - never hidden on or near the vehicle
Use a key tracker such as a Tile or Apple AirTag on your keyring
Establish a routine - always check for your keys before closing the car door
Consider keyless entry - modern systems reduce the risk of being locked out
Service your locks - worn or stiff locks are more likely to fail
Maintain your key fob - replace the battery before it fails; most fobs give a warning with reduced range before they stop working entirely
Use a magnetic key box attached to the underside of your vehicle as a backup

Get Back on the Road Fast

If you’re locked out of your car anywhere in London, City Locksmith provides a fast, professional response. Our auto locksmith team carries the specialist equipment needed to open any vehicle without damage, and we can cut and programme replacement keys on the spot. For urgent situations outside regular hours, our emergency locksmith service is available 24/7.