When people think about hiring a car, they tend to focus on avoiding accidents, scratches and other vehicle damage. But one issue that’s often overlooked is the car keys.
Key-related issues can quickly become a problem, whether you’ve accidentally locked them inside the vehicle, misplaced them as you explore a new destination or had them stolen. It can also be a surprisingly expensive issue to resolve particularly if you’re dealing with a car hire company abroad.
Getting locked out of a hire car might be more common that you expect. It can happen when you’re distracted with unloading luggage, managing children or stopping for fuel.
This guide explains what to do if you’re locked out of a hire car, the costs you could face and how key cover included in a ReduceMyExcess car hire excess insurance policy can help.
Can You Lock Yourself Out of a Hire Car?
Yes it can happen. Keyless entry systems and automatic locking features, whilst they’re convenient, can also create opportunities for mistakes.
Common situations include:
Most lockouts can be resolved without causing any damage to the vehicle, or to your bank account, provided you take the right steps.
What To Do If You’re Locked Out of a Hire Car
Being locked out of your hire car can feel stressful especially if you’re abroad and don’t speak the local language. Staying calm and following the correct process should help you get back on the road sooner.
1. Contact the Car Hire Company First
Your first call should always be to the rental company. They will advise you on the approved procedure and might:
Many car hire agreements require you to contact the hire company before arranging assistance yourself so it’s important not to skip this step.
2. Avoid Forcing Entry
It might be tempting to try and solve the problem yourself especially if you’re in a hurry.
But attempting to a force a door, window or lock could cause damage to the vehicle. Any resulting repair costs are likely to become your responsibility and could be significantly more expensive that waiting for approved assistance.
3. Arrange a Locksmith If Authorised
If the hire company approves it, you might be able to call a locksmith to regain access to the vehicle.
Depending on the circumstance, you may need to pay:
With a ReduceMyExcess policy, you might be able to claim some of these costs back later subject to the policy terms and limits.
4. Get a Spare or Replacement Key
In some cases, unlocking the vehicle is only part of the solution.
If the key has been lost, stolen or damaged, the rental company may need to provide a spare key or arrange a replacement before you can continue your journey.
5. Keep All Documentation
If you intend to make a claim, keep copies of any paperwork connected to the incient, including:
Having the correct evidence can help make the claims process smoother.
How Much Does a Hire Car Lockout Cost?
The cost of a lockout can vary depending on the country you’re in, the rental company and the type of vehicle involved. Potential expenses include:
Modern keyless fobs and smart keys can be particularly expensive to replace which means a simple mistake can be come an unexpected, and hefty, expense.
Does Car Hire Excess Insurance Cover Lockouts?
A ReduceMyExcess policy includes key cover as standard.
Subject to the policy terms and conditions, we can reimburse up to £500 for:
*Locksmith charges are covered up to a maximum of £100
As always, it’s important to read the policy wording carefully so you understand exactly what is and isn’t covered.
What Isn’t Covered?
Key cover can provide valuable protection but there are some situations where a claim might not be valid.
For example, cover will not normally apply if:
Following the rental company’s instructions is often just as important as having the right insurance in place.
How to Reduce the Risk of a Lockout
Nobody plans to lock themselves out of a hire car but taking a few precautionary steps might help.
Before you close the doors, make a habit of checking that:
Taking a few extra seconds just to check you’ve got the keys and won’t be locked out can save you a lot of inconvenience later.
Do I Need to Buy Key Cover at the Hire Desk?
When you collect your hire car, the hire company might offer additional protection for lost keys and lockouts. Before you agree, you should check what cover you already have.
Many standalone car hire excess insurance policies, including those from ReduceMyExcess, already include key cover as standard. Buying additional protection at the rental desk could mean paying twice for similar cover.
FAQs
Contact the rental company first and follow their instructions. They might arrange assistance or authorise a locksmith.
Some policies include key cover but others don’t. ReduceMyExcess policies include cover for lockouts, lost keys and certain locksmith charges, subject to policy terms and limits.
Only if the rental company approves it first. Arranging assistance without permission could affect your ability to claim.
Yes, you will need receipts and documentation for any costs you want to claim back.
You should report the theft to both the rental company and the local police as soon as possible. The rental company will advise on replacement arrangements, and you may need a police report to support any insurance claim.
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