At Carsmith Midlands, we regularly attend call-outs where someone has tried to force their way into a car or van using a screwdriver. We understand the panic of being locked out, but this is one shortcut that almost always ends up causing far more damage and expense than necessary.
What might seem like a quick solution can leave you with broken locks, damaged doors and compromised vehicle security. In many cases, the damage caused by a screwdriver far exceeds the cost of calling a professional auto locksmith in the first place.
Screwdrivers almost always cause permanent damage
Modern vehicle locks are precision engineered. They are designed to work with coded keys, transponders and immobiliser systems, not flat metal tools forced into them.
When a screwdriver is used, we often see:
- Destroyed lock barrels that can no longer be repaired
- Bent or cracked door handles and panels
- Scratched paintwork that can lead to rust
- Locks that no longer secure the vehicle properly
Once this damage is done, the lock usually needs to be replaced entirely rather than repaired, increasing both cost and repair time.
You can damage your car or van’s security systems
Most cars and vans now use advanced electronic security. Forcing entry with a screwdriver can easily interfere with these systems and cause problems such as:
- Immobiliser faults
- Central locking failures
- Alarm systems activating or malfunctioning
- Keys no longer being recognised by the vehicle
We frequently see vehicles where a simple lockout has turned into a much larger electronic issue because of an attempted forced entry.
Forced entry can affect insurance claims
Another issue many drivers don’t consider is insurance. Visible signs of forced entry, such as screwdriver marks or damaged locks, can raise concerns with insurers.
If your vehicle is later stolen or damaged, insurers may question whether reasonable care was taken. This can delay claims or, in some cases, reduce or invalidate them altogether.
Trying first can make our job harder later
Ironically, attempting to unlock your vehicle yourself can make it harder for us to help you afterwards. Damaged locks often cannot be opened using non-destructive methods, meaning parts that could have been saved now need drilling or replacing.
A quick call to us could have meant clean, damage-free entry. A screwdriver often turns it into a repair job.
Vans are especially at risk
Van locks are particularly vulnerable to screwdriver damage, especially on sliding and rear doors. Because these locks are often built into the door structure, damage can spread quickly and leave the van insecure.
For tradespeople and delivery drivers, this can mean:
- A van that won’t lock properly
- Increased theft risk
- Lost working time
- Costly repairs
We regularly help van owners who wish they had called us before reaching for a tool.
What to do instead, call Carsmith Midlands
If you are locked out of your car or van, the safest option is to contact Carsmith Midlands. We use specialist, vehicle-specific tools that allow us to gain entry without causing damage.
We can help with:
- Non-destructive vehicle entry
- Lost or locked-in keys
- Broken or faulty locks
- Key cutting and programming
- Immobiliser and central locking issues
In most cases, we can get you back on the road quickly and without unnecessary damage.
The smarter choice protects your vehicle
Using a screwdriver might feel like a last resort, but it almost always leads to bigger problems. From damaged locks and security faults to insurance complications, the risks simply are not worth it.
If you’re locked out, don’t make the situation worse. Call Carsmith Midlands and let us deal with it properly, safely and professionally.
