3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys can be a very frustrating experience. There are some things you can do to assist yourself in the event of this happening to you.
First, look in the obvious places, such as your pockets or purse. Consider purchasing an extra and keeping it in a secure location. This will prevent any future thefts.
1. Contact the police
If you've lost your keys and are unable to find them, the most effective solution is to contact the police. 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 might be missing and help stop people from using them without permission.
They're not able to unlock the doors of your car unless there is an emergency. They don't have any tools and they don't want to risk damaging the vehicle. If the circumstances are suitable the police may be able to use a slim Jim to open the door of the car. However, they must have a valid reason to do so. For instance in the event that they see an animal or small child trapped inside the vehicle in hot weather, they may smash the window to save the life.
You should also keep a spare car key hidden in case you need to lock yourself out of your vehicle. Some people keep spare keys in places that are easy to access, such as their office or home. Some people offer them to family or friends to keep in case of emergencies. If you have a spare, try to reach it before calling the police or taking more extreme measures.
Many cars come with proximity remotes that conceal an emergency key hidden within them. It is possible in the event that your vehicle is one of them, to unlock the door from a distance using a special tool a locksmith could possess. This tool is a slim jim with a flat-ended end that can be used to open locks.
2. Contact towing truck
Find a business that offers emergency replacement car keys in the event that you have lost your keys. You should keep their contact details in your phone under the heading "Emergency" and spend some time researching what services they provide, their charges as well as their coverage areas, technology and professionals.
This will help you make a well-informed decision if the situation arises. vehicle key replacement can assist you with a replacement or emergency key.
The best way to avoid losing your keys is to keep a spare set, and if you can, have two or three sets. Keep one set at home, another with your significant person and the third one in your wallet. This will allow you to avoid being stranded in a secluded spot.
Having a spare can also save you from calling for roadside assistance. The cost of purchasing a new key for a traditional one is usually very affordable, but 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 require pairing with the car by a manufacturer or dealer, and this can take several days.
To make the process as quick and easy as it can be it's recommended to have the VIN number of your vehicle handy. This number is usually on your car's registration or, more often, on a metal plate in the doorpost for the driver's side. This information will assist the emergency key replacement specialist determine how to go about making your old key work with the new one.
3. Try a Pump Wedge
It is always advisable to employ a non-destructive method initially, especially if there are children, pets, or elderly people in the vehicle. You won't have to risk calling the number 999 or paying a big bill for a professional.
Air pump wedges are available in auto lockout kit and by repo and locksmith professionals. They are made of robust, heavy-duty vinyl. They are designed to be inflated for a short time before being deflated. They can be slipped between the weather stripping and the door without worrying about scratching the paint.
You can use a standard wedge, or a curved one is more suitable for the majority of cars. The idea is to create a space in which you can insert the rod's length, which is thin to reach the locked pin. A coat hanger could be a good choice if it's strong enough, but you can also try a plastic rod or even a blood pressure cuff. The rod should be placed between the door and the frame to allow you to pull it to unlock the vehicle.
Most of these methods will set off the car alarm and that's why it's recommended to avoid these methods unless you're in an emergency. If not, the police might have to use a more destructive tool to enter your vehicle and rescue your pets or your passengers.
Keep a spare key somewhere at home or with a close friend, so that you have a chance of getting back in your car in case you are locked out. Of course 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 Coat Hanger
The coat hanger trick is a classic one, and you've probably seen it in a movie. This is a good option for older vehicles that have locks that are manual, and it works like an easy slim jim. All you require is a wire coat hanger and pliers.
With the pliers, loosen the coat hanger so that it has one side swung and one straight. Slide the hook between the window frame and the door frame. This will increase your chance of finding the control arm that's connected to the lock rod. Once you've found it, lift the lever and your door should open.
Another method is to tie a string with a slip-knot in the upper right corner on the driver's side of the door. Then, wiggle the string back and forward (like flossing massive teeth) to move it towards the rod of the inside lock. It may be necessary to use both hands, and it may take several attempts however, if it's successful, the lock will be released and you will be able to unlock the door.
You can also try using a strip of plastic that you bend into a shape that will fit in the small gap between the door and the frame. This is a more challenging option however it could be the only option to get into the vehicle in case you can't locate your keys.
If you have an extra key, it is recommended to store it somewhere where you are able to access it in the event in an emergency. If you don't, you'll have to call road assistance or a locksmith. It is recommended to carry your key code number as well as your personal identification in order that road assistance or a locksmith can help you quickly.