3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your keys to your car could be a frustrating experience. Luckily, there are some actions you can take to help yourself in this situation.
First, look in the obvious places, such as your pockets or purse. Consider purchasing a spare and storing it in a safe place. This will help you avoid theft in the future.
1. Call the Police
Call the police if you can't locate your keys. They will be able to assist you more than an auto locksmith or roadside assistance. They'll also be capable of informing the general public that someone has possibly stolen your car keys which can help prevent people from using keys without authorization.
They are not able unlock the door of your car unless it is an emergency. This is because they do not have the right tools to do it and don't want to cause damage to your vehicle. If the circumstances are suitable, the police may be able use a slim Jim to open the car's door. But, they must have a valid reason for doing so. For instance, if they see an animal or small child locked inside the car in hot weather, they may break the window to save a life.
It is also advisable to keep a spare car key somewhere hidden in case you have to lock yourself out of your vehicle. Some people keep spare keys in areas accessible to them, such as their home or office. Others lend them to friends or family members to keep in case of an emergency. If you have an extra contact it prior to calling authorities or taking more drastic measures.
A lot of cars have proximity remotes that conceal an emergency key inside. You may be able to use your car, if it is one of them to open the door from a distance with an instrument that locksmiths could use. This tool is a slim jim that has a flat end that can be used to pick locks.
2. Contact a Tow truck
If you lose your car keys the first thing to do is find a company that provides emergency replacement of car keys. You should store their contact numbers on your phone under "Emergency," and spend some time researching the services they offer and the charges they charge, coverage area technology, and experts.
You'll be able make an informed decision if the need arises. Whether you need an emergency locksmith or a new key, these companies will assist you in getting back on the road with little hassle.
The best method to avoid losing your keys is to have an extra set, and when possible, two or three sets. Keep one at home, and give one to your spouse or significant other, and keep the other in your purse or wallet. This will help you avoid being stuck in a remote location.
The possession of a spare key can save you from calling for assistance on the road. A new key for a standard key is usually very affordable. However, automotive key replacement of a smart key can be quite expensive. These types of keys use an electronic chip to operate the vehicle, so they'll need to be paired with the vehicle by a manufacturer or dealer which could take a few days.
It's a good idea to make the process as simple and fast as you can and to keep the VIN number of the vehicle in your pocket. This number can be found on the documents for your vehicle or stamped on a metal plaque that is placed in the driver's doorpost. This information will help the emergency key replacement specialist determine the best method for reprograming your old key to work with the new one.
3. Try an Pump Wedge
It's best to start with a non-destructive treatment especially if you have young children or pets, as well as elderly people in your car. You won't have to risk calling 999 or paying a large bill for a professional.
Air pump wedges are sold in the auto lockout kit as well as by locksmith professionals and repo experts. The wedges are made of heavy-duty vinyl that can be inflated and deflated quickly. You can slide them between the weather stripping and the door without having to worry about scratching the paint.
You can use an ordinary wedge, or a curved one is more suitable for the majority of cars. The idea is to create space in which you can place the rod to reach the pin that locks your door. A coat hanger could be suitable if it's sturdy enough, but you can try a rod made from plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The rod should be placed between the door and the frame to allow you to pull it to open the vehicle.
The majority of these methods cause the car alarm to go off This is why it is best to stay clear of them unless there is an emergency. If you don't, the police could have to use more destructive tools to gain access to the car and save your passengers.
Keep a spare car key at home or with a friend near you in case you need to get back into your vehicle when you lock yourself out. You should also check if your insurance for your vehicle or roadside assistance plan covers car key replacement.
4. Try a Coat Hanger
The coat hanger trick is a classic and you've likely seen it in a film. This is an option for older cars that come with manual locks. It works like the slim jim. All you require is a coat hanger with a wire and pliers.
Untwist the coathanger with pliers so that one side is hooked, and the other side is straight. Slide the hook into the space between the window and the door frame. This will allow you to locate the control arm connected to the rod for locking. When you locate it, pull up and the door will open.
Another method is to tie a long string using a slip knot in the upper right-hand corner of the door for the driver. Then, wiggle the string back and forward (like flossing huge teeth) to move it towards the rod inside the lock. It may take a few attempts and both hands to get the lock to release.
You can also make use of a strip of plastic bent into a shape that fits the gap between the door and frame. This is a more difficult option however it could be the only method to get into the vehicle if you cannot find your keys.
If you have a spare key, it is a good idea to leave it somewhere that you are able to access it in case in an emergency. Otherwise, you will have to call road assistance or a locksmith. Make sure you have the key code number and your personal identification card on your person so that locksmith or road assistance can assist you quickly.