Locked your keys in the car? What to do
A lockout is frustrating but usually not dangerous. The exception is a child, vulnerable person or animal locked inside, especially in warm weather.
Safety classification
Safe inspection only
This guide covers safe first actions only. It is not a licence to perform regulated work or enter a dangerous area.
What to do
- 1
Call 000 if someone is trapped
If a child, vulnerable person or pet is locked inside a hot car or in distress, call 000 immediately.
- 2
Check every door and the boot once
Some vehicles have a door or boot that did not lock. Do not force anything.
- 3
Look for a spare
A household member, flatmate or friend may be able to bring a spare key faster than a service.
- 4
Do not break in yourself
Coat hangers, wedges and broken windows cause expensive damage to seals, wiring and airbags.
- 5
Request vehicle lockout help
Share the make, model and year, where the keys are, and have proof of ownership or authority ready.
When to stop
- A person or animal is inside and distressed
- The car is in a dangerous location
- The key is lost, not just locked inside
- The key or remote is broken
Roadside assistance
Prepare the problem, safety status and location once. The matching category and service will be pre-filled.
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Fixit247 does not publish instructions for unlicensed electrical, gas, asbestos, structural, high-roof, dangerous tree or live-road work.
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