Keys locked inside the car
Doors shut on the keys is the classic version — shopping loaded, door pushed closed, key sitting on the passenger seat. It happens most often in car parks and on driveways where people are in and out of the vehicle repeatedly.
Keys locked in the boot
Boot lids that self-latch catch a lot of people out, particularly after loading up. Access depends on the vehicle: some allow entry through the cabin, others need a different approach.
Keys lost while you were out
If the keys are not simply on the wrong side of the glass, entry is only half the problem. Where nothing works, we can move straight on to a lost key replacement at the same visit, subject to the vehicle and to proof of ownership.
Key no longer working
A fob that has stopped unlocking is sometimes just a flat battery, sometimes a failed remote and occasionally a key that has lost its programming. We can get you into the car first, then look at repairing the key or replacing it.
How entry is carried out
Methods depend entirely on the vehicle — its age, locking system and how the doors are built. The approach is explained before anything starts.
Non-destructive entry is the aim on every job, but it cannot be guaranteed on every vehicle in every situation. Where damage-free access is not realistic, we will say so before proceeding rather than after.
Before you call
Have the registration, make, model and your exact location ready. Also worth saying:
- Whether you can see the keys inside the vehicle
- Whether any other working key exists elsewhere
- Whether a child, pet or anything urgent is inside
Anything urgent involving a person or animal in the vehicle should go to the emergency services first.