3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys could be a traumatic experience. There are, however, some ways to assist yourself in this scenario.
Look for obvious places such as your purse or pockets. Consider purchasing a spare key and keeping it in a secure location. This can prevent future thefts.
1. Call the Police
Contact the police if can't find your keys. They can assist you in many ways other than an emergency roadside assistance or locksmith. They'll also be capable of informing the public that someone may have possibly stolen your car keys, which can help prevent people from using keys without authorization.
However, they won't be able to unlock the door of your car unless it is an emergency situation. They do not have any tools and don't want the vehicle damaged. In certain circumstances the police might be in a position to use the slim jim to unlock the door, but they'll require a valid reason to do so. If they see that an animal or a child is locked in a car in hot weather, they could break the window.
It's an excellent idea to keep a spare key hidden somewhere in case you are locked out of your car. Some people keep spare keys in areas easily accessible like their office or home. Some people give them to family or friends to keep in case of emergencies. If car replacement key have a spare, you should try to get it out of the way before calling the police or resorting to more drastic measures.
Many cars come with proximity remotes with an emergency code hidden behind them. If yours is one of them, you could be able to open the doors from a distance by using a special tool that locksmiths have. The tool is a flat-ended slim jim that can be used to open locks.
2. Call a tow truck
Find a company that provides emergency replacement of car keys if you have lost your keys. It is recommended to keep their contact numbers in your phone under "Emergency," and spend some time looking into their services, charges, coverage area technology, and professional.
You'll be able to make a well-informed decision when the need arises. These companies can assist you with the replacement of your key or an emergency one.
It is best to have three or more spare keys. Keep one at home, then give one to your spouse or your significant other, and then keep the other in your purse or wallet. This will help you to avoid being stranded in a strange place.
A spare key can save you from needing to call roadside assistance. The cost of a new key for a traditional one is usually very affordable, but the cost of a smart key can be quite expensive. 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 several days.
To make the process as fast and painless as you can it's a good idea to keep the VIN number of your car in hand. It can be found on your car's registration or is often stamped on a metal plate in the doorpost for the driver's side. This information will allow the professional to modify your old key so that it works with the new key.
3. Try an Pump Wedge
It's always best to use a non-destructive approach first, especially if there are young children, pets or elderly people in the vehicle. You don't have to worry about calling the number 999 or paying a big bill for an expert.
One of the simplest methods to unlock a car is with an air pump wedge which are sold in auto lockout kits, and also by locksmiths and repo experts. They're made of robust, heavy-duty vinyl. They 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.
For most cars, a curved wedge is better. The idea is to create a space in which you can place the rod's length, which is thin to reach the pin that is locked. If the hanger for your coat is thick enough, it could work. You could also try a plastic rod or 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.
Almost all of these methods will set off the car alarm and that's why it's recommended to avoid them unless there is an emergency. In the event of an emergency, police may require an additional tool to enter your vehicle and save your pets or your passengers.
Keep a spare key at your home or with a friend to ensure that you have a chance to get back into your car in the event you get locked out. Of course it is important to confirm that key replacement is covered in your roadside assistance plan or insurance for your vehicle.
4. Try a Coathanger
The coat hanger trick is a classic and you've probably seen it in a film. This is a good option for older vehicles with manual locks and functions as a DIY slim jim. All you need is a thin wire coat hanger and pliers.
With the pliers, loosen the coat hanger so that it has one end hooked and one straight. Slide the hook between the window frame and the door frame. This will help you locate the control arm that is attached to the rod that locks. When you locate it, pull it back and the door will open.
Another way is to tie a string using a slip-knot located in the upper right corner of the driver's side of the door. Move the string in a back-and-forth motion (like flossing a giant tooth) to move it towards the inside lock rod. It could take a few attempts and both hands to allow the lock to be released.
You can also use a strip of plastic bent into a form to fit the narrow gap between door and frame. This is a harder option however it could be your only option if you are unable to locate your keys.
If you have a spare key, it is recommended to store it somewhere where you can easily access in the event in an emergency. In auto key replacements of an emergency, you'll need to call road assistance or a locksmith. Be sure to have the key code number and your personal identification in to ensure that the locksmith or road assistance can assist you quickly.