Locked out

[thedufmeister]

Hi Folks.

My Citroen C3 2013 model has locked itself with the key still in the ignition barrel! All doors locked and the door release button on the dash is flashing red. (Indicating locked). The key is in the barrel. Has anyone any idea if there’s a time frame when the car will ‘unlock’ itself. I can’t find the spare key. I’m just trying to avoid a hefty call out charge from the local garage.
Thanks for taking the time to read this post.

[GiveMeABreak]

No, when it's locked it's locked. The car never unlocks itself unless in an emergency after a collision depending on model.

I can't think how this can happen to be honest.

[thedufmeister]

Thanks Marc. This was my suspicion. I can’t understand what’s happened either. Key is still in the lock. Looks like it’s a call-out then. Thanks for taking the time to reply.

[Hell Razor5543]

The only way I can think it happened is that somehow the spare key has triggered the locks. The only times the locks should automatically engage is either when you go over 6MPH (provided that is set to happen) or 30 seconds after the remote unlock button is pressed WITHOUT any doors being opened (this includes the boot).

[thedufmeister]

Thanks James.
I’m beginning to wonder if it’s a fault with the central locking system? I’ve lost the spare key so that is out of the equation. The garage has been. He used an airbag to force a gap in the door, used a metal flexible rod and managed to hit the ‘unlock’ button of the key while it was still in the ignition! This opened the car. Now waiting on the bill for the call out. Thanks for your reply.

[Hell Razor5543]

I would suggest you get a replacement spare key ASAP, and 'introduce' it to your car. Then put it in a safe place. That way (if there IS an issue with the central locking) you can get back in should you be unlucky enough to lock the key in again.

[thedufmeister]

That’s tomorrow’s plan

[Hell Razor5543]

That is both good news, but a bit complicated. You will need the security code (normally provided on a card with a scratch panel), and access to a Lexia clone. Once you have a key cut you will need to 'introduce' it to the car. This is done using the Lexia (and needs the code to allow access to the relevant menu). You need to do this with all of the keys at the same time, as any that are not done are 'forgotten' by the car (although they can be re-introduced at a subsequent session). I don't know any more than this, as I have not had to do it myself.

If you don't have the security code you can (with proof of ownership) get it from any Citroen dealership, but they will probably charge a fee for this. I have heard that some dealerships will do it for free, but others can charge £20 or so.

If you don't have a Lexia there are Forum members who do, and who may be able to help (but please note that some of them have stopped doing so, and may not respond to requests for help). Here is the link to the members. Just look at the map and find the nearest to you;

viewtopic.php?t=56452

[moizeau]

My C4 does this. It's a bit older being 2005. It only locks itself with the key in the ignition otherwise it stays unlocked for eternity. I presumed it was to stop someone opening the door and driving off when you'd left the keys in on a car park.

[wheeler]

Where abouts in Scotland are you?