3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
The loss of keys to your car can be a frustrating and stressful experience. Luckily, there are some ways to assist yourself in this scenario.
Make sure you check the obvious places, such as your purse or pockets. Consider buying a spare key and storing it in a secure place. This will help prevent thefts in the future.
1. Call the police
Call the police if you can't locate your keys. They will be able help you more than an auto locksmith or roadside assistance. They can also inform the general public that your car keys could have been stolen and help stop other people from using keys without authorization.
However, they won't be in a position to unlock your car door unless it is an emergency situation. vehicle key replacement is due to the fact that they don't have the tools needed to do this and aren't looking to cause damage to the vehicle. If the circumstances are right, the police may be able use a slim Jim to open the car's door. But they must have a legitimate motive to do this. If they find that the child or animal is locked in a car in the heat, they could 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 their spare keys in places easily accessible, such as their office or home. Others lend them to friends or family members to hold onto in case of an emergency. If you have an extra, reach out to it prior to calling authorities or taking more drastic actions.
Many cars have proximity remotes with a hidden emergency code. If yours is one of them, you could be able to open the doors from a distance by using an instrument that only locksmiths will have. The tool is a slim jim with a flat-ended end that can be used to open locks.
2. Call a Tow Truck
If you have lost your car keys, the most important thing to do is find a company that can provide an emergency replacement of car keys. You should store their contact numbers in your phone under "Emergency," and spend some time researching the services they offer, charges, coverage area technology, and experts.
You will be able to make a well-informed decision when the time comes. These companies can assist you with a replacement or emergency key.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is to keep a spare set, and when you can, have two or three sets. Keep one at home, then give one to your spouse or significant other, and keep the other in your purse or wallet. This will help you avoid being stuck in a strange place.
The possession of a spare key can save you from calling for roadside assistance. The cost of a brand new key for a traditional one is typically very affordable, however the cost of a smart key could be quite high. These types of keys make use of an electronic chip that operates the vehicle, so they'll need to be paired with the vehicle by a dealership or manufacturer which can take several days.
It's a good idea, to make the process as easy and quick as possible you keep the VIN number of the car in your pocket. This number can be found on the documents for your vehicle or on a plaque made of metal in the door of the driver. This information will allow the technician to modify your old key to ensure that it can work with the new key.
3. Try an Pump Wedge
It's best to begin with a non-destructive treatment particularly in the case of children or pets, or elderly people in your car. This way, you don't have the risk of having to call 999 or incur a high bill from an expert.
Air pump wedges are available in auto lockout kit and by locksmith professionals and repo experts. These wedges are made from high-quality vinyl that can be deflated and inflated quickly. You can slide them between the weather stripping and the door without having to worry about scratching paint.
For most cars, a curved wedge is better. The idea is to create a space so that you can put in the long, thin rod in order to reach the pin that is locked. A coat hanger may be suitable if it's sturdy enough, but you can try a rod made from plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The rod should be put between the frame and the door so that you can pull it to open the vehicle.
The majority of these methods set off the car alarm This is why it is best to stay clear of these methods unless you're in an emergency. If you don't, police may have to employ more destructive tools to enter your vehicle and save your passengers.
Keep a spare car key home or with a friend near you in case you need to get back into your vehicle if you lock yourself out. You should also check if your insurance for your vehicle or roadside assistance policy covers the replacement of keys to your car.
4. Try a Coat Hanger
You've likely seen the coat hanger trick in a film. This is a great option for older vehicles that have locks that are manually operated and functions as a DIY slim jim. All you require is a coat hanger with a wire and pliers.
With the pliers, loosen the coat hanger so that it has one side hooked and one straight. Slide the hook into the space between the window and the door frame. This will allow you to locate the control arm that is connected to the rod that locks. When you locate it, pull it up and the door will open.
Another option is to tie a long string with a slip knot in the upper right-hand corner of the door for the driver. Then, move the string back and forth (like flossing huge teeth) to move it towards the inside lock rod. It may 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 shape to fit the narrow gap between door and frame. This is a more difficult option however it could be your only option if it's impossible to find your keys.
If you have an extra key, it is a good idea to leave it in a place where you can easily access it in the event in an emergency. You'll need to contact road assistance or a lock-smith if you don't. Be sure to have the key code number and your personal identification on your person so that locksmith or road assistance can assist you in a timely manner.