Getting locked out of your car is never convenient, whether you’re heading to work, going shopping, or setting off on holiday. At Abel Locksmiths, we specialise in fast, professional vehicle lockout assistance across Shropshire, North Wales and surrounding areas.
In this guide, we explain exactly what to do if you find yourself locked out of your vehicle—and how our expert team can help get you back on the road without delay.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First things first, don’t panic. Car lockouts are very common, and in most cases, they can be resolved quickly and without damage.
Ask yourself:
- Are all doors locked, or just the driver’s side?
- Can you access the boot or a rear door?
- Do you see your keys inside the car, or are they missing entirely?
- Do you have a spare key at home or with someone nearby?
Checking thoroughly can sometimes save you time and money if a simple solution presents itself.
Step 2: Avoid DIY Unlocking Methods
Many people try using coat hangers, string, or wire tools to force a door open, but this often causes more harm than good. Damaging the paintwork, door seals, or internal locking mechanism can result in costly repairs.
Modern cars in particular use advanced security systems, and attempting DIY entry could trigger alarms or immobilisers.
Instead, it’s best to contact a professional auto locksmith, like Abel Locksmiths.
Step 3: Call a Professional Auto Locksmith
If you can’t gain access to your vehicle safely, your best option is to call a professional auto locksmith. They have the right tools and experience to unlock your car quickly and without causing damage, whether your keys are locked inside, lost, or broken.
At Abel Locksmiths, we specialise in non-destructive vehicle entry, offering emergency call-outs to help you regain access to your car as fast as possible. Our trained and insured locksmiths work with all makes and models of vehicles, including those with advanced electronic locking systems.
Wherever you’re located, a qualified car locksmith can assist with:
- Keys locked inside the vehicle or boot
- Lost or stolen car keys
- Broken or jammed locks
- Faulty key fobs or transponder issues
- Emergency vehicle entry without damage
Trying to break into your own vehicle can trigger alarms or damage sensitive components, so leave it to the experts to get you safely back on the road.
Step 4: Be Ready With Vehicle Details
To speed up the process, have the following information ready when you call:
- Your location (postcode, nearby landmark or What3Words)
- The make and model of your vehicle
- Whether you’ve locked the keys inside or they are completely missing
- Any issues with the lock or fob you’ve noticed
The more details we have, the better prepared our locksmith will be when they arrive.
Step 5: Inspect Your Locks After Re-Entry
Once we’ve gained access to your vehicle, we’ll check that the locks, ignition and keys are all functioning properly. If the lockout was due to a mechanical fault or snapped key, we can make on-the-spot repairs or replacements.
We also offer:
- Replacement car keys
- Key fob reprogramming
- Lock repairs and replacements
- Spare key cutting
How to Avoid Future Lockouts
To reduce the risk of getting locked out again, consider these quick tips:
- Keep a spare key at home or with someone local
- Check your fob battery regularly
- Always double check your pockets or bag before closing the door
- Avoid placing your keys in the boot while loading or unloading
