Plain-English problem guide
Locked out of a vehicle
Safe ways back into the car, and when to call 999 instead.
What to do first
- Call 999 if anyone inside is at risk
- See if you can get to a spare key
- Move away from traffic while you sort out help
Find a locksmith Avoid making it worse
- Breaking a window unless told to in an emergency
- Using wedges or wires yourself
- Choosing anyone who will not talk about ownership checks
How a locksmith might tackle it
- Opening the car without damage, using the right method for it
- Decoding or replacing the key
- Repairing the lock or latch if a fault caused it
What changes the cost
- The make and security of the car
- Where you are
- The time of day
- Whether you also need a new key
What to prepare
- Registration and model
- Proof the car is yours
- Exactly where you are, somewhere safe
