Keys Locked in Car — Professional Vehicle Entry
Keys shut inside the vehicle is one of the most common calls an auto locksmith takes, and it happens to careful people constantly — a boot closed with the fob inside, a child pressing the lock button, a keyless car locking itself with the fob still on the seat.
The aim is straightforward: open the vehicle without causing damage, so that the only cost of the day is the visit itself.
Non-destructive entry, where the vehicle allows it
Wherever possible we use non-destructive methods, meaning the vehicle is opened without breaking glass, forcing panels or damaging the lock. On the large majority of vehicles this is achievable by a technician with the right tools and a patient approach.
Some vehicles and some situations are harder than others, and we will always explain the position before doing anything that could affect the vehicle. Nothing is done without your agreement.
Please tell us if a child or animal is shut inside
If a child or pet is locked inside the vehicle, tell us immediately when you call. We treat these situations as a priority and, where possible, will drop other non-urgent work and head straight to you. If we are too far away to reach you quickly, we will tell you immediately so you can contact someone closer rather than losing valuable time.
If the child or animal appears to be in immediate danger or distress, particularly in hot weather, contact the emergency services.
Before we set off — quick checks
A couple of seconds of checking occasionally saves a call-out entirely, so it is worth doing while you are on the phone to us.
- Try every door and the boot — one is often unlocked
- Check whether a spare key is at home and somebody can bring it
- If your vehicle has an app that unlocks it remotely, try that
- Confirm whether the keys are visible inside, or possibly not in the car at all
Locked out, or locked out with no key at all?
If the keys are inside the vehicle, opening it solves the problem. If the keys are genuinely lost, opening the vehicle is only the first half — you will also need a new key produced and programmed before you can drive away. Being clear about which situation you are in helps us arrive prepared for the whole job rather than half of it.
Frequently asked questions
- Will opening my car damage it?
- We use non-destructive methods wherever the vehicle allows, and we discuss the approach with you first. Any situation where damage might be unavoidable is explained before we proceed.
- Do you need proof the vehicle is mine?
- Yes. We ask for identification and evidence of your entitlement to the vehicle before opening it — a standard and reasonable step in this trade.
- My keyless car locked itself with the fob inside. Can you help?
- That is a common call. Keyless vehicles can lock with the fob in the cabin, and vehicle entry is normally still possible.
- Can you open the boot if my keys are locked in there?
- Often yes, though boot-only lockouts vary by vehicle. Tell us where the keys are when you call so we arrive prepared.
Keys locked in car coverage areas
We provide mobile vehicle entry for keys locked in cars across Harlow and selected surrounding towns. Choose your area for local service information.
Related services
Lost Car Keys
Keys missing or stolen? We attend your vehicle, produce a new key and, where required, remove the lost key from the vehicle's memory.
ViewBroken & Damaged Car Keys
Snapped blades, cracked fobs, keys stuck in the ignition and worn remotes — repaired or replaced at your vehicle.
ViewCar Key Replacement
New keys cut and programmed at your vehicle — remote keys, flip keys and keyless fobs, where the vehicle is supported.
ViewNeed a car key sorted today?
Tell us the vehicle make, model, year and where it is parked and we will give you a straight answer on what is possible and what it costs. Call 01279 293988, message us on WhatsApp, or request a quote.