Emergency Car Key Replacement Isn't As Tough As You Think
3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys could be an extremely frustrating experience. Luckily, there are some ways to assist yourself in this circumstance.
First, look in the obvious places, such as your pockets or purse. Next, consider purchasing a spare key and storing it in a secure location. This will help you avoid theft in the future.
1. Contact the police
If you've lost your keys and are unable to find them, the best solution is to contact the police. They can assist you in more ways than a roadside assistance or locksmith. They can also inform the public that your car keys might have been stolen and help stop others from using them without permission.
However, they won't be in a position to unlock your car's door unless it is an emergency situation. They don't have any tools and they don't want to risk damaging the vehicle. Based on the situation the police might be in a position to use a slim jim to open the door, but they will require a valid reason to do this. For instance when they spot an infant or a pet trapped inside the vehicle in hot weather, they may break the window to save the life.
It's an excellent idea to have an extra key somewhere in case you are locked out of your car. Some people keep spare keys in areas easily accessible like their office or home. Others offer them to family members or friends members to keep in the event in the event of an emergency. If you have an extra contact it prior to calling authorities or taking more drastic actions.
Many cars have proximity remotes that have an emergency key hidden within them. You might be able to use your car, if it is one of these, to unlock the door from a distance with an instrument that locksmiths might have. This tool is a slim jim that has a flat end that can be used to pick locks.
2. Contact for a Tow Truck
Find a company that provides emergency car key replacement if you have lost your keys. It is best to save their contact numbers in your phone under "Emergency," and spend some time studying their offerings, charges, coverage area technology, and professional.
This will enable you to make an informed choice when the need arises. If you require an emergency locksmith or a new key, these companies can assist you in getting back on the road with little hassle.
It is recommended to have three or more spare sets of keys. Keep one set at home, one with your spouse or significant other and the third one in your wallet. This will help you to avoid being stranded in a strange place.
A spare key can prevent you from having to call roadside assistance. A new key for a conventional key is typically very affordable. However, the cost of a smart-key can be quite expensive. These types of keys use an electronic chip that operates the vehicle, which means they'll need to be paired with the vehicle by a manufacturer or dealer which could take a few days.
To make the process as simple and painless as possible, it's always best to have the VIN number of your car in hand. This can be found on your car's registration or, more often, on a metal plate that is located in the driver's side doorpost. This information will help 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 is always advisable to use a non-destructive approach first particularly if you have children, pets, or elderly people in the car. That way you won't risk needing to call 999 or incur a high bill from a professional.
One of the simplest ways to unlock your vehicle is with an air pump wedge which are sold in auto lockout kits and also by locksmiths and repo professionals. They are made of high-quality vinyl that can be deflated and inflated quickly. You can slip them between the weather stripping and the door without having to worry about scratching the paint.
For the majority of vehicles, a curving wedge is better. The idea is to create a space in which you can place an extremely thin rod to reach the pin that locks your door. A coat hanger may work if it's thick enough, but you can also try a rod made of plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The rod should be put between the frame and the door to allow you to pull it to open the vehicle.
Most of these methods will set off the car alarm, which is why it is best to stay clear of them unless there is an emergency. In the event of an emergency, police may require a more destructive tool to gain access to your vehicle and save your pet or passengers.
Keep an extra car key at home or with a friend near you to allow you to gain access to your vehicle if you lock yourself out. It is also important to determine if your auto insurance or roadside assistance plan covers car key replacement.
4. Try Coathanger
You've likely seen the coat hanger trick in a film. This is a great solution for older vehicles with manual locks and works as an easy slim jim. You only need a thin coat hanger with pliers and a wire.
Untwist the coathanger with pliers to ensure that one side is snared and the other is straight. The hook should be inserted into the gap between the window and the door frame. This will allow you to locate the control arm that is connected to the lock rod. When you locate it, pull it up and the door should be opened.
Another option is to tie a string with a slip-knot located in the upper right corner of the driver's side door. You can move the string with a back-and-forth motion (like flossing a huge tooth) to shift it toward the inside lock rod. You may need to use both hands, and it could take a few attempts however, if it's successful, the lock should be released and you will be able to open the door.
replacement key could also consider using a strip of plastic that you bend into a shape that fits into the small gap between the frame and door. This is a more difficult option however it could be your only option if you are unable to locate your keys.
It is a good plan to keep a spare key somewhere you can easily find it in the event of an emergency. Otherwise, you will 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 your person so that locksmith or road assistance will be able to assist you in a timely manner.