3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your keys to your car can be a frustrating and stressful experience. There are, however, some actions you can take to help yourself in this scenario.
Check auto key replacement cost like your pockets or purse. Next, consider purchasing a spare key and storing it in a safe place. This will prevent any future thefts.
1. Contact the police
Contact the police if you can't locate your keys. They can help you in more ways than a roadside assistance or locksmith. They could also inform the public that your car keys may have been stolen to prevent other people from using keys without authorization.
However, they won't be able to unlock your car's door unless it is an emergency situation. This is due to the fact that they don't have the tools needed to do this and don't want to cause damage to the vehicle. Depending on the circumstances the police may be in a position to use an incredibly small jim to open the door, but they will need to have a good reason to do so. For example in the event that they see an infant or a pet locked in the car during hot weather, they may break the window to save the life.
It is also advisable to keep a spare car key somewhere hidden in case you lock yourself out of your vehicle. Some people keep them in easily accessible locations, such as their home or office. Some people offer them to friends or family members to keep in case of an emergency. If you have a spare contact it prior to calling the authorities or taking more drastic steps.
A lot of cars have proximity remotes with a hidden emergency key hidden within them. If yours is one of them, you might be able to unlock the doors from a distance by using an instrument that only locksmiths will have. The tool is a slim jim that has a flat end that can be used to pick locks.
2. Contact for a Tow Truck
If you have lost your car keys, the first thing to do is find a company that can provide an emergency replacement of car keys. It is recommended to save their contact details on your phone under the heading "Emergency" and spend some time researching what services they provide, their charges, their coverage area, technology and professionals.
This will help you make a well-informed decision if the situation arises. If you require an emergency locksmith or simply a replacement key, these companies can assist you in getting back on the road with minimal hassle.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is to have an extra set, and should you be able to, if possible, three or more sets. Keep one set at home, one with your significant person, and the other in your wallet. This will allow you to avoid being stuck in a strange place.
The possession of a spare key can save you from calling for assistance on the road. The cost of purchasing a new key for a traditional key is usually very affordable, but the cost of a smart key could be quite high. These keys use an electronic chip that allows them to control the vehicle. They will need to be connected by a manufacturer or dealer. This can take a number of days.
To make the process as fast and painless as you can it's best to keep the VIN number of your vehicle in your possession. This number can be found on the documents for your vehicle or on a metal plaque that is placed in the driver's doorpost. This information will allow the technician to reprogram your old key so that it functions with the new key.
3. Try a Pump Wedge
It is best to start with a non-destructive treatment particularly in the case of children or pets, as well as elderly people in your vehicle. You won't have to risk calling 999 or paying a large bill for an expert.
One of the easiest methods to unlock a car is to use an air pump wedge that are available in auto lockout kits, and also by repo and locksmith professionals. They are made of durable, heavy-duty vinyl and are designed to be inflated for a brief period of time and then deflated. You can slip them between the weather stripping and the door without worrying about scratching paint.
You can make use of a standard wedge, or a curved one is more suitable for cars with a wide range of. The idea is to create space for you to insert a long, thin rod to reach the door pin locked. If the coat hanger is strong enough, it might be able to work. You could also try a rod made of plastic, or even a blood-pressure cuff. The rod should be placed between the frame and the door so that you can pull it to open the vehicle.
It's best to avoid these techniques unless you're in an emergency. If you don't, the police could have to use more destructive tools to enter your vehicle and save your passengers.
Keep a spare car key at home or with a friend near you to allow you to return to your car when you lock yourself out. Also you must be sure to verify that car key replacement is covered in your roadside assistance plan or auto insurance.
4. Try a Coathanger
You've probably seen the coat hanger trick in a film. This is a solution for older cars that come with manual locks. It functions like an incredibly slim jim. You will require a simple coat hanger that has pliers and a thin wire.
With the pliers, untwist the coat hanger so that it has one side hooked and one straight. The hook should be inserted into the gap between the window and door frame. This will give you a better chance of finding the control arm that's connected to the lock rod. Once you've found it, pull it back and the door should be opened.
Another option is to tie a string using an elongated slip-knot on the upper right corner on the driver's side door. Then, move the string back and forward (like flossing huge teeth) to move it towards the inside lock rod. It is possible 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 open the door.
You could also consider using a strip of plastic that you bend into a shape that will fit in the small gap between the frame and door. This isn't the most ideal solution but it may be the only option if you are unable to locate your keys.
It is a good idea to keep a spare key somewhere you can find it in case of emergency. If you don't, you'll have to call for road assistance or a locksmith. Be sure to have the key code number as well as your personal identification card on hand so that the locksmith or road assistance can assist you in a timely manner.