3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your keys to your car could be a frustrating experience. There are a few things you can do yourself if this happens.
Check replacement car keys with chips like your pockets or purse. Consider purchasing an extra and keeping it in a safe place. This will help to prevent theft in the future.
1. Call the police
Contact the police if are unable to find your keys. They will be able assist you more than an auto locksmith or roadside assistance. They can also inform the public that your car keys could be missing to prevent other people from using them without permission.
However, they are not able to unlock your car's door unless there is an emergency situation. This is due to the fact that they don't have the right tools to do so and don't want to cause damage to the vehicle. If the circumstances are suitable the police may be able to use a slim Jim to open the door of the car. But they must have a valid reason to do this. For instance in the event that they see a small child or animal locked in the car during hot weather, they might break the window to save the life.
You should also keep an extra car key hidden in case you need to lock yourself out of your car. Some people keep them in easily accessible places, like their home or office. Others lend them to family members or friends members to keep in the event in the event of an emergency. If you have a spare contact it prior to calling the authorities or taking more drastic actions.
Many cars have proximity remotes that have an emergency key hidden within them. If yours is one of them, you could be able to unlock the doors from a distance with an instrument that only a locksmith will have. This tool is a slim jim with a flat-ended end that can be used to pick a lock.
2. Call a tow truck
If you have lost your car keys The most important thing you can do is locate a business that offers emergency replacement of car keys. It is best to save the contact information of these companies in your phone under "Emergency," and spend some time looking into their services costs, coverage areas, charges technology, and professional.
You'll be able make an informed decision if the need arises. If you require an emergency locksmith or simply an extra key, these companies will assist you in getting back on the road with minimal hassle.
It is advisable to have three or more spare keys. Keep one set at home, one with your important person, and the other in your wallet. This will allow you to avoid being stranded in a remote location.
The possession of a spare key can make it easier to call for roadside assistance. A new key for a traditional key is typically very affordable. However, the price of a smart-key can be quite expensive. They are equipped with an electronic chip that allows them to operate the car. They will need to be connected by a manufacturer or dealer. This could take a few days.
It's a good idea to make the process as simple and quick as is possible, to keep the VIN number of the car in your pocket. This number can be found on the documents for your vehicle or stamped on a metal plaque in the doorway of the driver. This information will help the emergency key replacement professional determine how to go about making your old key work with the new one.
3. Try an Pump Wedge
It's best to start with a non-destructive solution, especially if you have young children, pets, or elderly people in your car. This way, you don't have the risk of needing to call 999 or be charged a high amount from an expert.
One of the most efficient ways to unlock your car is to use an air pump wedge, which are offered in auto lockout kits, and also by locksmiths and repo professionals. The wedges are made of heavy-duty vinyl that can be deflated and inflated quickly. You can slide them between the weather stripping and the door without having to worry about scratching paint.
For the majority of vehicles, a curving wedge is better. The idea is to create space in which you can place the rod to reach the door pin locked. A coat hanger could be a good choice if it's strong enough, but you could try a rod made from plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The goal is to place the rod between the door and the frame so you can pull it out and unlock the car.
It's best to avoid these methods unless you have an emergency. If you don't, the police might have to use more destructive tools to get inside your car and rescue your passengers.
Have a spare key at home or with a trusted friend, so that you have a chance of getting back in your car in case you lock yourself out. You should also check if your auto insurance or roadside assistance policy covers the replacement of keys to your car.
4. Try a Coat Hanger
The coat hanger trick is a well-known, and you've probably seen it in a film. This is a great option for older vehicles that have locks that are manually operated and functions as a DIY slim jim. All you need is a thin coat hanger with a wire and pliers.
Untwist the coathanger using pliers so that one side is hooked, and the other straight. The hook should be inserted into the gap between the window and the door frame. This will give you a better chance of locating the control arm which is attached to the rod for locking. Once you find it, pull up and the door should open.
Another way is to tie a string with an elongated slip-knot on the upper right corner of the driver's side of the door. Then, you can wiggle the string back and forth (like flossing massive teeth) to move it towards the rod inside the lock. You may need to use both hands, and it could take a few attempts however, if it's successful, the lock will be released and you will be able to unlock the door.
You can also try using a plastic strip that you bend into a shape that will fit into the gap between the frame and door. This is a more difficult choice but it could be the only method to enter the vehicle if you cannot locate your keys.
If you have an extra key, it is a good idea to leave it somewhere that you can easily access in the event in an emergency. Otherwise, you will have to call road assistance or a locksmith. Make sure you have the key code number as well as your personal identification in hand so that the road assistance or locksmith can assist you in a timely manner.