Locked Out of Your Car? Here's What to Do (and What NOT to Do)

It happens to everyone eventually. You close the door, hear that sickening click, and realise the keys are still in the ignition — or on the passenger seat, or in the boot. You're locked out. Here's exactly what you should (and shouldn't) do.

DO: Stay Calm and Check All Entry Points

First, check every door. It sounds too obvious to mention, but in the moment people often forget. Check the passenger doors, the rear doors, the boot, and any sliding doors. If a window is partially open, great — but don't try to crawl through a small gap. You'll either get stuck or break something.

DO: Call a Professional Auto Locksmith

This is the fastest and safest way back into your vehicle. A professional auto locksmith has the right tools and training to gain entry without causing damage. We use specialist lock-picking tools, long-reach tools, and air wedges designed specifically for modern vehicles. Average arrival time for our Bridlington-based team is 30–45 minutes.

DON'T: Use a Coat Hanger or Wire

We know you've seen it in films. In reality, coat hangers scratch paintwork, damage weather seals, bend window frames, and can break glass if you slip. Modern cars also have internal trim panels, side airbags, and wiring looms that a probing coat hanger can damage. The repair bill will be many times the cost of a professional locksmith.

DON'T: Try to Force a Window

Forcing a window down with a wedge or lever can shatter the glass, bend the window regulator mechanism, or damage the electric window motor. Window regulators typically cost £150–£400 to replace — far more than a locksmith callout.

DON'T: Break a Window

This should be an absolute last resort — for example, if a child or pet is trapped in a hot vehicle. In that situation, call 999 first, then break the window furthest from the person or animal. For any non-life-threatening lockout, breaking a window is expensive and unnecessary.

Locked Out Now? Call Us.

We're available 24/7 for emergency vehicle entry across Bridlington and East Yorkshire. Call 07706 303038 and we'll be with you fast — no damage, no drama.