First: Don't Make It Worse
The instinct when locked out is to start problem-solving immediately — trying the other doors, looking for a way in through a window, calling someone who might have a spare. That's all reasonable. What's not reasonable: attempting to force your way in with improvised tools.
A coat hanger, screwdriver, or any kind of improvised pry tool is likely to damage the door seal, scratch the paintwork, or — on modern cars — trigger the alarm or push the locking mechanism into a state that makes it harder to open. A professional locksmith will do this cleanly in minutes. Don't spend 30 minutes making it worse before calling.
Check the Obvious Things First
- Try all four doors and the boot — it's more common than you'd think for one to be unlocked
- Check whether you have a spare key somewhere accessible — a family member nearby, a key safe
- Check whether your car's app (if it has one) allows remote unlocking — some modern vehicles do
- If you're an RAC/AA member, check whether your membership covers vehicle access
If You Need to Call a Locksmith
If none of the above resolves it, call a local auto locksmith. In Ashton-in-Makerfield and Wigan, Ashton Lock & Key offers a 24/7 car lockout service with typical response times of 20–35 minutes. You speak directly to the locksmith — not a call centre — and you get a fixed price over the phone before we set off.
Non-destructive entry is our standard approach. We use professional wedge and long-reach tools to open the vehicle cleanly. There are no scratches, no damage, and no evidence we were ever there. You pay the agreed price, and you're on your way.
Emergency: Child or Pet Inside a Hot Car
If a child or pet is locked in a vehicle and at risk from heat, call 999 immediately. This is a genuine emergency and the police have authority to break a window. A car window is replaceable.
If the situation is not immediately life-threatening (e.g., the car is in shade and it's a mild day), calling a locksmith is the better option for avoiding damage. Assess the temperature and make the right judgement call.
After You're Back In — Sort a Spare Key
Being locked out once is enough of an incentive to make it never happen again. A spare car key cut and programmed costs a fraction of a call-out charge and can be kept with a trusted neighbour, in a key safe, or with a family member.
If you needed a locksmith anyway, ask about adding a spare on the same visit — it's the cheapest moment to do it.
What a Car Lockout Costs in Ashton-in-Makerfield
Standard daytime lockout (07:00–20:00): from £60. Out-of-hours: from £80. Price confirmed before we attend. For the full breakdown of auto locksmith costs in the area, see our 2026 locksmith pricing guide.