3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys could be an extremely frustrating experience. There are car key replacements can do to assist yourself if this happens.
Look for obvious places such as your pockets or purse. Consider purchasing an extra one and keeping it in a secure place. This can help prevent theft in the future.
1. Contact the police
If you've lost your keys and aren't able to find them, the most effective thing to do is call the police. They will be able help you more than a locksmith or roadside assistance. They can also inform the public that your car keys might be missing and help stop other people from using keys without authorization.
They're not able to unlock the door of your car unless it is an emergency. They do not have any tools and they don't want the vehicle damaged. If the circumstances are appropriate, the police may be able use a slim Jim to open the door of the car. However, they must have a valid reason to do so. If they see that the child or animal is locked inside a vehicle in hot weather, they may break the window.
It's an excellent idea to have an extra key in a safe place in case you are locked out of your vehicle. Some people keep their spare keys in areas easily accessible 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 make contact with it prior to calling the authorities or taking more drastic actions.
Many cars come with proximity remotes that conceal an emergency key inside. You may be able to use your car, if it is one of them to open the door from a distance using an instrument that locksmiths might possess. This tool is a slim jim with a flat end that can be used to pick a lock.
2. Call a Tow truck
Find a company who provides emergency replacement of car keys if you lose your keys. It is recommended to save their contact details in your phone under the heading "Emergency" and spend time looking into the services they offer, their charges, their coverage area, technology and professionals.
You'll be able to make an informed choice when the time comes. No matter if you require an emergency locksmith or a new key, these companies will 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, if feasible, three or more sets. Keep one at home, and give one to your spouse or your significant other, and keep the other in your wallet or pocket. This will ensure that you do not find yourself stranded in an unfamiliar place.
A spare key can help you avoid needing to call roadside assistance. The cost of a brand new key for a traditional key is usually quite affordable, but the price of a smart key can be quite expensive. They are equipped with an electronic chip that allows them to operate the vehicle. They must be paired by a manufacturer or dealer. This 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 vehicle in your possession. You can find this number on the documents for your vehicle or on a metal plaque in the doorway of the driver. This information will allow the professional to modify your old key so that it can work with the new key.
3. Try an Pump Wedge
It's best to start with a non-destructive solution particularly in the case of children or pets, or elderly people in your car. You won't have to risk calling 911 or paying a huge bill for a professional.
Air pump wedges are sold in the auto lockout kit as well as by locksmith professionals and repo experts. They are made of durable, heavy-duty vinyl and are designed to be inflated for a short period of time, and then deflated. This lets you slide them between the door and the weather stripping without risking scratching or damaging the paint of the car.
You can make use of an ordinary wedge, or a curved one is more suitable for cars with a wide range of. The idea is to create a space so that you can put in the rod's length, which is thin in order to reach the locked pin. If the coat hanger is thick enough, it may be able to work. You could also try an aluminum rod or a blood pressure cuff. The rod should be placed between the frame and the door to allow you to pull it to open the vehicle.
Most of these methods 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, the police may have to employ more destructive tools to get inside your car and rescue your passengers.
Keep a spare key at home or with a trusted friend in order to have a chance to get back in your car in case you are locked out. You should also check if your insurance for your vehicle or roadside assistance policy covers the replacement of your car keys.
4. Try Coathanger
You've likely seen the coat hanger trick in a film. This is a great option for older cars that come with manual locks. It works like the slim jim. All you require is a thin coat hanger with a wire and pliers.
Untwist the coathanger with pliers until one side is hooked, and the other 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 for locking. Once you've located it, push the lever upwards and the door should be opened.
Another option is to tie a string with an elongated slip knot in the upper right corner of the driver's door. Then, you can wiggle the string back and forward (like flossing massive teeth) to move it towards the rod inside the lock. It could take a few attempts and both hands to allow the lock to be released.
You can also make use of a plastic strip bent into a shape that fits the gap between the door and frame. This is a more difficult option however it could be your only option if you are unable to locate your keys.
If you have an extra key, it's recommended to store it somewhere where you can easily access in case in an emergency. If you don't, you'll have to call for road assistance or a locksmith. You should have your key code number and your personal identification in order that road assistance or a locksmith can help you promptly.