10 Wrong Answers To Common Emergency Car Key Replacement Questions: Do You Know The Right Answers?
3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
The loss of keys to your car could be a frustrating experience. Luckily, there are some ways to help yourself in this scenario.
Make sure you check the obvious places, such as your pockets or purse. Then, think about purchasing an extra key and keeping it in a safe place. This will help prevent thefts in the future.
1. Call the Police
If you've lost your keys and aren't able to find them, the best thing to do is call the police. They can help you in many ways other than locksmith or roadside assistance. They'll also be capable of informing the general public that someone has possibly stolen your car keys which will stop people from using keys without authorization.
They're not able to unlock the door of your car unless it is an emergency. This is because they don't have the tools needed to do it and they don't want to cause damage to your vehicle. Depending on the circumstances the police may be in a position to use an incredibly small jim to open the door, but they'll need to have a good reason to do this. If they discover that a child or an animal is locked in a car during hot weather, then they may break the window.
It is also advisable to keep a spare car key hidden in case you have to lock yourself out of your car. Some people keep them in accessible places, like their home or office. Others give them to family or friends members to keep in the event in the event of an emergency. If you have a spare make contact with it prior to calling the authorities or taking more drastic actions.
Many cars have proximity remotes with a hidden emergency key hidden within them. You may be able, if your car is one of these to open the door from a distance by using a special tool a locksmith would possess. This tool is a slim jim with a flat end that can be used to pick a lock.
2. Contact a Tow Truck
If you lose your car keys the most important thing to do is locate a company that can provide an emergency car key replacement. You should store the contact information of these companies in your phone under "Emergency," and spend some time looking into their services, charges, coverage area technology, and experts.
You'll be able to make an informed decision if the need arises. No matter if you require an emergency locksmith or simply a new key, these companies will assist you in getting back on the road with little hassle.
The best way to avoid losing your keys is to keep an extra set and, should you be able to, if you can, have two or three sets. Keep one at home, and give one to your spouse or your significant other, and then keep the other in your purse or wallet. This will ensure that you don't be stuck in an unfamiliar place.
The possession of a spare key can make it easier to call for assistance on the road. A new key for a traditional key is usually quite affordable. However, the price of a smart key can be quite expensive. These keys have an electronic chip that allows them to operate the vehicle. auto key replacements must be paired with a manufacturer or dealer. This could take a few days.
To make the process as fast and painless as possible, it's always recommended to keep the VIN number of your vehicle in your possession. It's possible to find this number on the documents for your vehicle or stamped on a plaque made of metal in the doorway of the driver. This information will aid the emergency key replacement professional determine the best method for 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 when you have children or pets, as well as elderly people in your car. That way you won't risk needing to call 999 or be charged a high amount from an expert.
One of the easiest ways to unlock your car is to use an air pump wedge, which are offered in auto lockout kits and also by repo and locksmith professionals. They're made from robust, heavy-duty vinyl. They are designed to be inflated for a short period of time, and then deflated. You can slide them between the weather stripping and the door without worrying about scratching the paint.
You can use a standard wedge, or a curved one is better for most cars. The idea is to create a space so that you can insert the long, thin rod in order to reach the pin that is locked. A coat hanger might be suitable if it's sturdy enough, but you can try a rod made from plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The aim is to get the rod between the frame and door so you can pull it out and unlock the car.
Almost all of these methods will trigger the car alarm and that's why it is best to stay clear of them unless there's an emergency. If you don't, police could have to use more destructive tools to gain access to your vehicle and save your passengers.
Keep a spare car key home or with a friend near you so you can return to your car when you lock yourself out. Also it is important to verify that car key replacement is part of your roadside assistance plan or auto insurance.
4. Try a Coat Hanger
The coat hanger trick is a classic one, and you've probably seen it in a film. This is a great option for older cars with manual locks. It works like the slim jim. You will require a simple coat hanger with pliers and a thin wire.
With the pliers, pull off the coat hanger so that it has one end hooked and one straight. Slide the hook into the space between the window and door frame. This will increase your chance of finding the control arm that's connected to the lock rod. Once you've found it, pull it back and the door will open.
Another option is to tie a long string using an elongated slip knot in the upper right corner of the driver's door. Wiggle the string in a back-andforth motion (like flossing a giant tooth) to pull it towards the inside rod of the lock. It may take several attempts and both hands to unlock the lock.
You can also try using a strip of plastic that is bent into a shape that will fit in the narrow gap between the door and the frame. This is a more difficult choice however it could be the only method to get in the vehicle if you are unable to locate your keys.
It is a good idea to keep a spare key somewhere that you can easily locate in case of emergency. You'll need to contact road assistance or a lock-smith in the event that you don't. It is recommended to carry your key code number as well as personal identification with you so that road assistance or a locksmith can help you quickly.