Locked out of your car? Read what you can check first, which damaging tricks to avoid and when to call a professional locksmith.
At a glance: do’s and don’ts
Do
- Stay calm and check simple options: a spare key, the manufacturer’s app or a family member.
- Note your location, vehicle type, model year and registration number.
- Call a professional automotive locksmith or roadside assistance for non-destructive vehicle opening.
- Have identification and proof of ownership ready.
Do not
- Do not use shoelaces, metal rods, tennis balls or improvised tools.
- Do not force the door: damage to paintwork, seals, airbags or the locking mechanism can be expensive.
- Do not break a window: it is dangerous and often costs more than professional assistance.
1) Make these quick checks first
- Spare key: does your partner, housemate or colleague have one, or is one stored securely?
- Manufacturer’s app, if available: some vehicles can be unlocked through an authorised app.
- Roadside assistance: check whether your insurance, lease or membership includes cover.
- Safety first: if the car is in a dangerous location, keep yourself safe and place a warning triangle where safe and appropriate.
2) Why online tricks are a bad idea
There are countless online “hacks” involving shoelaces, metal rods or tennis balls. In practice, these often cause:
- Damaged paintwork or doors, torn seals or misaligned locks.
- Damage to airbags or sensors and higher repair costs.
- Problems if you cannot immediately show that you own the vehicle.
A shortcut may save a few minutes but cost much more money and time.
3) Call professional assistance
Call a qualified automotive locksmith, roadside assistance provider or dealer. Have the following ready:
- Registration number, make, model and model year.
- Your exact location: address, hard shoulder or car park.
- Proof that the vehicle belongs to you: identification and vehicle registration documents.
You can expect non-destructive opening with specialist tools, a clear price agreement and an estimate of the work involved.
4) Costs and transparent pricing
The price depends on the time of day, location, vehicle type and complexity. Always ask about:
- An agreed price beforehand, including travel costs.
- The payment method and an invoice.
- The estimated arrival time.
Professionals work transparently and open the vehicle without causing additional damage.
5) Prevention costs less
- Keep a spare key somewhere secure, not visibly attached to the car.
- Replace the remote-control battery in good time.
- Consider supported keyless or app access, or tracking features with alerts.
- Make a habit of holding your key or keeping it in your pocket when leaving the vehicle.
6) How we can help
- Non-destructive opening of commonly used vehicle brands.
- Prompt assistance throughout Flanders and Brussels.
- A clear price agreement and an invoice.
- Additional help with key or lock diagnosis, prevention advice and cylinder or lock repairs where needed.
Contact Locksmith Belgium for assistance.