uk Transport & mobility emergencies rental car key not working • hire car key fob stopped working • rental keycard not working • keyless entry not unlocking • car won’t unlock with fob • remote key stopped working • key fob battery died away • rental car lockout outside • stranded away from vehicle • can’t get into hire car • rental car key signal blocked • keyless entry interference • forgot spare key rental • rental car digital key not working • car sharing keycard failed • rental car access problem • vehicle won’t lock or unlock • key fob stopped responding

What to do if…
your rental vehicle key, keycard, or fob stops working while you are away from the vehicle

Short answer

Get to a safe, well-lit place, then contact the rental company using the 24/7 roadside/assistance number in your rental paperwork or app. Avoid paying a locksmith or forcing entry until the rental company tells you what to do.

Do not do these things

Don’t keep walking farther from the vehicle “to see if it works again” — you can lose track of where it’s parked or leave it unattended longer than necessary.
Don’t force a door, wedge a window, or try “DIY” entry tools — damage is easy and can become your liability.
Don’t pay a locksmith or tow yourself without checking the rental company’s instructions first (it can complicate costs and authorisation).
Don’t repeatedly press the fob while standing near other people who seem to be watching — if you suspect interference or tampering, step away and reassess.
Don’t assume the car is unlocked/locked just because the lights flash — always physically check when you’re back at the vehicle.

What to do now

Pause and make the situation safer first. Step into a well-lit, staffed area (shop, petrol station, hotel lobby) or near CCTV. If you feel threatened, call 999.
Open your booking details and find the correct contact route. Use the number printed on your rental agreement, key sleeve/tag, or in the rental app (“Roadside assistance” / “Help” / “Emergency”). Call that first rather than guessing.
Write down exactly what’s happening (for the agent). Your booking/reference number, vehicle registration, location (car park level/bay if you know it), and what stopped working (unlock, lock, start, keycard).
Try the quickest “no-risk” checks before you walk back (or while you’re on the phone).
- If it’s a fob: check it hasn’t been damaged or wet; make sure no button is stuck from being in a pocket/bag.
- If it’s a keycard: wipe it dry, keep it away from magnets/electronics, and try again once.
- If you have the rental app/digital key, make sure you have signal/Wi-Fi and you’re signed in.
Go back to the vehicle only when you’re ready to check access properly. If the area feels unsafe, ask a staff member/security to accompany you, or wait where it’s safe while you stay on the line.
At the vehicle: confirm what’s true. Check all doors and the boot. If it’s open, secure belongings and tell the rental company immediately.
Ask the rental company what they want next and follow that plan. Typical options are: remote unlock (if supported), dispatching roadside assistance, directing you to the nearest open branch/desk for a replacement key, or arranging recovery if the vehicle can’t be secured.
If you suspect interference or tampering: don’t confront anyone. Move back to a safe place and call the rental assistance line. If you feel at risk or witness suspicious behaviour, call 999; for non-urgent reporting use 101 once you’re safe.
Document the situation briefly. Note the time, take a photo of the vehicle where it’s parked, and keep screenshots of any app errors.

What can wait

You don’t need to decide right now who will “pay” for it — just follow the rental company’s authorised process and keep receipts if you are told to pay anything.
You don’t need to troubleshoot the fob (battery replacement, re-pairing, etc.) on your own today unless the rental company specifically asks.
You don’t need to argue about responsibility at the roadside — focus on getting safe access and a clear instruction trail.

Important reassurance

This is a common rental problem (fobs, keycards, apps and immobilisers can fail unexpectedly). The fastest way out is usually the rental company’s own assistance route, because they can authorise access, replacement keys, or recovery without you taking on avoidable liability.

Scope note

These are first steps to stabilise the situation and prevent expensive mistakes. Once you’re safe and the rental company is engaged, they can tell you the correct next step for that vehicle and contract.

Important note

This is general information, not legal advice or a substitute for the rental company’s instructions. If you’re in immediate danger, call 999.

Additional Resources

Support us

What to do if…your rental vehicle key, keycard, or fob stops working while you are away from the vehicle