When a client rang into the Howden Camberley branch, she wasn’t asking about premiums or paperwork – she was asking for help. Trapped inside her car with her four-year-old grandson on a sweltering summer day, she was understandably distressed. The vehicle, a keyless entry model, wouldn’t start.
Worse still, the key fob wasn’t unlocking the doors, and the battery had died. With no air conditioning and no way to open the windows, the situation was quickly becoming dangerous.
The team springs into action
In branch, Callum Booth immediately began exploring her breakdown cover options, but the insurer’s estimated wait time was 90 minutes – far too long given the heat and the presence of a young child. Meanwhile, Justin Hayward, who previously worked at Jaguar Land Rover, used his automotive knowledge to guide the client through emergency override procedures.
Justin explained that many vehicles have a backup system: placing the key near the steering column – often marked by three lines – and activating the hazard lights, then pressing the ignition can sometimes result in power. This would allow her to lower the windows and get some air. Unfortunately, that method didn’t work. So Justin advised her to keep trying the key button while pulling the door handle, hoping to trigger a manual override.
Justin explained: “As the minutes ticked by, we were preparing to call emergency services. The safety of the child and our client was paramount, and we weren’t willing to take any chances.
“Thankfully, just before we reached that point, the key fob sprang back to life. The client was able to unlock the car and exit safely with her grandson.”
Callum continued: “Of course you should try and stay calm in these situations, but when you’re actually locked in or out your car, it’s incredibly stressful. We’re just glad that a relatively simple fix in that the key fob needed a new battery, and most importantly, that everyone was okay.”
What to do if you’re locked in (or out) your car
As babies and children love playing with car keys, especially the ‘old-school’ jangly kind, breakdown services are often called out by distressed parents whose children have locked themselves in the car. It’s also easy to misplace your keys, lock them inside the car, or with keyless entry vehicles, encounter some kind of electrical fault.
First, check if any doors are unlocked. With some vehicles, a back door or even the boot to may have stayed unlocked, especially if you’ve been going in and out of the vehicle. If you have a newer car, you may be able to use an app to trigger the lock open.
If you’re locked out of your vehicle, many key fobs do still have a physical key tucked inside, which you can use to open the doors. If you can’t see anywhere to insert the key, it may be hidden under the door handle.
Next if you’ve had no luck, you might be tempted to try a Slim Jim or wire hanger to fish the lock, but these can damage the locking mechanism, airbag or interior. Unless you’re 100% sure of what you’re doing, it’s best to call for help.
Getting locked in or out your car is not always included in breakdown cover, as it can vary between policies, but having an expert come to help is the best case scenario. And if things are looking dangerous – it’s getting late or it’s a hot day, call the emergency services.
The benefit of a local team
This story is a powerful reminder that when the unexpected happens, having someone on your side can make all the difference. At Howden, we’re not just here to help with policies – we’re here to support you when it matters most. Whether it’s a breakdown, a claim, or a moment of crisis, our team is ready to step in with practical help and genuine care.
If you’d like to review your motor insurance – or simply want peace of mind that you’re properly covered – drop by your local Howden branch or give us a call. We’re always happy to talk things through and make sure you’re protected, whatever the road ahead may bring.
Sources: The AA, Mr Tyre, Mechanic Base
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- Where in the UK your car’s most likely to fail its MOT
- The truth behind smart doorbells
- What the Bank of England base rate cut means for you
- Rental laws are changing – landlords, are you covered?
This is a marketing blog by Howden Insurance.