What to do if you're locked in your car Once you've pressed every button and established the door handle won't open the door the next step is to check the owner's manual. Look under "door locks" or "boot release" or "emergency"; while there may be nothing that will help you out, some cars also have a way to get out using non-traditional methods. Many modern cars have a manual release system for the boot or tailgate. They're primarily for stopping people getting locked in boots (ignore the Hollywood myths) and usually involve pressing a button or pulling a lever to open the boot. But they're often not too obvious, especially if you're not actually in the boot. If you've got a phone many cars offer a roadside assistance service and the operator may have some handy advice for the specific model you're stuck in. If you've decided your only option is to smash a window, don't bother using your hands or feet. Unless you've got a sizeable diamond ring or steel-tipped boots the chances are you won't be able to smash the window. So look for something sharp in the car (the tip of the key, for example) and apply plenty of force; windows are surprisingly strong. If all else fails call the police on 000 (triple zero) Smart keys Many modern cars - even affordable models from mainstream brands - have smart keys or proximity keys that can be sensed by the car. It means the key can be left in a pocket or bag but the car still opened and started if the key is within a certain range (usually about one metre) of the vehicle. For the most part they're a great feature and will likely see the end of conventional car keys within a few years. But they can create their own frustrations and failures typical of modern electronics. Because they're not attached to the car while you're driving, they can get lost or slide down the side of a seat. So while you can still start and drive the car, you can't lock it or leave it securely until you find the key. Similarly, while most cars these days warn you when the key is taken out of the car (when the original driver leaves the car, for example) there can be occasions when someone drives to their destination only to remember the key is in the pocket of the previous driver. Smart keys can succumb to interference from other electronic items or when the car is in certain locations (where there are a lot of radio waves, for example). So the car sometimes won't recognise them and either fail to unlock the doors or open. If that occurs all will have either a physical key built into them (it usually slides out) or an area of the car with the key can be placed to allow it to start. Some cars also warn people not to store their smart key near any implanted medical devices, such as pacemakers - not for the sake of the key, but for the operation of the medical device. with Toby Hagon