3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your keys to your car may be a frustrating and stressful experience. Luckily, there are some actions you can take to assist yourself in this scenario.
Make sure you check the obvious places, such as your purse or pockets. Consider purchasing an extra one and keeping it in a secure location. This will help to prevent theft in the future.
1. Contact the police
If you've lost your keys and can't locate them, the best solution is to contact the police. They can help you in more ways than a roadside assistance or locksmith. They will also be able to inform the general public that someone has possibly taken your car keys, which can help prevent people from using keys without authorization.
They can't open your car's door unless it is an emergency. They don't have any tools and don't want to risk damaging the vehicle. Based on the situation the police might be in a position to use the slim jim to unlock the door, but they will require a compelling reason to do so. For instance in the event that they see an infant or a pet locked in the car during hot weather, they could break the window to save the life.
It's an excellent idea to have an extra key in a safe place in case you get locked out of your vehicle. Some people keep their spare keys in places easily accessible, such as their office or home. Others lend them to friends or family members to keep in the event in the event of an emergency. If you have a spare, try to reach it before calling the police or resorting to more extreme measures.
Many cars have proximity remotes with an emergency code that is hidden. If yours is one of them, you may be able unlock the doors from a distance by using the help of a specific tool that a locksmith will possess. This tool is a slim jim that has a flat end that can be used to pick locks.
2. Call towing truck
Find a company that provides emergency car key replacement if you lose your keys. You should store their contact numbers on your phone under "Emergency," and spend some time looking into their services costs, coverage areas, charges, technology, and professionals.
You'll be able make an informed decision if the time comes. These companies can assist with a replacement or emergency key.
It is best to have at least two or three spare keys. Keep one set at home, one with your spouse or important person and the third in your wallet. This will ensure that you do not find yourself stranded in an unfamiliar place.
Having a spare can also save you from calling for assistance on the road. A new key for a conventional key is typically very affordable. However, the cost of a smart key can be quite costly. They are equipped with an electronic chip that allows them to control the car. They will need to be paired by a dealer or manufacturer. This can take several days.
To make the process as simple and painless as possible it's recommended to keep the VIN number of your vehicle handy. It's possible to find this number on the documentation for your vehicle, or on a plaque made of metal in the doorway of the driver. This information will aid the emergency key replacement specialist determine how to go about changing your old key's programming to work with the new one.
3. Try a Pump Wedge
It's always best to try to use a non-destructive approach first, especially if there are children, pets or elderly people in the vehicle. car key remote replacement near me won't risk having to call 999, or incur a high bill from a professional.
One of the most efficient ways to unlock your vehicle is with an air pump wedge, which are sold in auto lockout kits and also by repo and locksmith professionals. The wedges are made of durable vinyl that can be inflated and deflated quickly. You can slip 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 even better for most cars. The idea is to create space for you to insert a long, thin rod to reach the pin that locks your door. A coat hanger might 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 door and the frame so that you can pull it to unlock the vehicle.
The majority of these methods will set off the car alarm and that's why it is best to stay clear of them unless there is an emergency. In the event of an emergency, police may have to use an even more destructive method to enter your vehicle to rescue passengers or pets.
Keep a spare car key home or with someone close to you so you can return to your car when you lock yourself out. Also you must be sure to check whether car key replacement is included in your roadside assistance plan or insurance for your vehicle.
4. Try a Coathanger
You've probably seen the coat hanger trick in a movie. This is a great option for older cars that come with manual locks. It functions like the slim jim. You only need a thin coat hanger with pliers and a small wire.
Untwist the coathanger using pliers until one side is hooked and the other side is straight. Place the hook in the gap between the window and the door frame. This will give you a better chance of finding the control arm that's connected to the lock rod. Once you've located it, push the lever upwards and the door should be opened.
Another method is to tie a string using an elongated slip-knot on the upper right corner of the driver's side door. Then, you can wiggle the string back and forward (like flossing massive teeth) to move it towards the rod inside the lock. You may need to use both hands, and it could take several attempts, but if it is successful, the lock will be released and you will be able to unlock the door.
You can also make use of the plastic strip bent into a shape that fits the narrow gap between door and frame. This is a more challenging option however it could be the only method to enter the vehicle if you cannot locate your keys.
If you have a spare key, it's a good idea to leave it in a place where you can easily access it in case of an emergency. You'll need to call road assistance or a locksmith if you don't. Be sure to have the key code number and your personal identification card on to ensure that the locksmith or road assistance will be able to help you out quickly.
