3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your keys to your car could be a frustrating and stressful experience. There are some things you can do yourself in the event of this happening to you.
Check automotive key replacement like your pockets or purse. You might want to consider purchasing an extra and keeping it in a secure place. This will prevent any future thefts.
1. Call the Police
If you've lost your keys and aren't able to find them, the most effective solution is to contact the police. They will be able to assist you more than a locksmith or roadside assistance. They can also inform the general public that your car keys may be missing and help stop others from using keys without authorization.
However, they aren't in a position to unlock your car's door in the event of an emergency situation. This is because they do not have the tools needed to do so and don't want to cause damage to your vehicle. Depending on the circumstances the police may be capable of using an incredibly small jim to open the door, but they'll require a compelling reason for doing so. For instance when they spot a small child or animal locked inside the car in hot weather, they may cut the window to save the life of a person.
It is also advisable to keep a spare car key somewhere hidden in case you have to lock yourself out of your car. Some people keep spare keys in places that are easy to access such as their home or office. Some people give them to family or friends to keep in case of an emergency. If you have an extra, reach out to it before calling the authorities or taking more drastic steps.
Many cars have proximity remotes with a hidden emergency key hidden within them. If yours is one of them, you could be able to open the doors from a distance with the help of a specific tool that locksmiths possess. It is a flat-ended slim jim that can be used to pick locks.
2. Call a tow truck
If you have lost your car keys the first thing to do is find a company that provides emergency car key replacement. It is best to save their contact numbers on your phone under "Emergency," and spend some time studying their offerings, charges, coverage area, technology, and professionals.
This will allow you to make an informed choice when the need arises. Whether you need an emergency locksmith or an extra key, these companies can help you get back on the road with minimal hassle.
The best way to avoid losing your keys is to have an extra set, and when you can, have two or three sets. Keep one at home, and give one to your spouse or your significant other, and keep the other one in your wallet or pocket. This will ensure that you do not be stuck in a remote location.
A spare key can also prevent you from needing to call roadside assistance. The cost of a brand new key for a traditional key is typically very affordable, but the cost of a smart one can be quite costly. These keys use an electronic chip that allows them to control the vehicle. They will have to be connected by a dealer or manufacturer. This can take a number of days.
To make the process as simple and easy as it can be it's a good idea to have the VIN number of your vehicle handy. This number is usually on your car's paperwork or is usually stamped on a metal plaque in the driver's side doorpost. This information will allow professionals to modify your old key to ensure that it can work with the new key.
3. Try a Pump Wedge
It is best to start with a non-destructive solution especially if you have young children or pets, or elderly people in your car. That way you won't risk having to call 999 or be charged a high amount from a professional.
One of the simplest methods to unlock a vehicle is with an air pump wedge which are offered in auto lockout kits, and also by locksmiths and repo experts. These wedges are made from heavy-duty vinyl that can be deflated and inflated quickly. This lets you slide them between the door and the weather stripping without scratching or dinging the paint of your car.
You can make use of wedges of any size, but a curved one is even more suitable for the majority of cars. The idea is to create a space so that you can insert the rod's length, which is thin to get to the pin locked. If the hanger for your coat is strong enough, it could be able to work. You could also try a rod made of plastic 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.
It is best to avoid these methods unless you have an emergency. If not, the police might need to employ a more destructive tool to gain access to your vehicle and rescue your pets or your passengers.
Keep a spare car key home or with someone close to you in case you need to return to your car when you lock yourself out. It is also important to determine if your auto insurance or roadside assistance policy covers the replacement of your car keys.
4. Try a Coathanger
The coat hanger trick is a classic one, and you've likely seen it in a movie. This is a great option for older vehicles that have manual locks, and it works like an easy slim jim. All you need is a thin wire coat hanger and pliers.
Untwist the coathanger using pliers until one side is hooked, and the other is straight. Slide the hook between the window frame and the door frame. This will increase your chance of finding the control arm which is attached to the rod for locking. Once you've found it push the lever upwards and your door should open.
Another method is to tie a string with an elongated slip-knot on the upper right corner on the driver's side of the door. Then, you can wiggle the string back and forth (like flossing huge teeth) to move it towards the rod inside the lock. It may take several attempts and both hands to unlock the lock.
You could also consider using a strip of plastic that can be bent into a form that will fit in the gap between the door and the frame. This is a more difficult choice however it could be the only way to get into the vehicle if you cannot find your keys.
If you have a spare key, it's a good idea to leave it somewhere that you can easily access in the event of an emergency. You'll need to contact road assistance or a lock-smith if you don't. It is recommended to carry your key code number as well as personal identification with you so that road assistance or a locksmith can help you promptly.