3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
The loss of your car keys can be an extremely frustrating experience. Luckily, there are some ways to help yourself in this scenario.
First, look in the obvious places, such as your purse or pockets. You might want to consider purchasing an extra and keeping it in a secure location. auto key replacement will prevent any future thefts.
1. Call the Police
If you've lost your keys and can't find them, the best thing to do is call the police. They can help you more than a locksmith or roadside assistance. They can also inform the general public that your car keys might be missing, which will help prevent others from using them without permission.
They can't open your car's door unless it is an emergency. They don't have any tools and they 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 will need to have a good reason for doing so. If they see that the child or animal is locked in a vehicle during hot weather, then they may break the window.
It is also advisable to keep a spare car key hidden in case you lock yourself out of your car. Some people keep them in easily accessible places, like their home or their office. Others lend them to family members or friends members to hold onto in case of an emergency. If you have a spare, you should try to get it out of the way before calling the police or taking more drastic measures.
A lot of cars come with proximity remotes that have an emergency code that is hidden. If yours is one of them, you could be able to unlock the doors from a distance using an instrument that only locksmiths possess. The tool is a slim jim with a flat-ended end 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 locate a business that can provide an emergency car key replacement. It is recommended to save their contact information in your phone under the heading "Emergency" and then spend time researching what services they provide as well as their prices as well as their coverage areas, technology and professionals.
This will enable you to make an informed choice when the situation arises. Whether you need an emergency locksmith or an extra key, these companies can assist you in getting back on the road with minimal hassle.
It is advisable to have three or more spare keys. Keep one set at home, one with your spouse or significant person and the third in your wallet. This will help you avoid being stranded in a strange place.
A spare key could save you from having to call for roadside assistance. The cost of a new key for a traditional one is usually quite affordable, but the price of a smart key could be quite costly. These keys have an electronic chip that allows them to operate the car. They must be connected by a manufacturer or dealer. This could take a few days.
It's a good idea to make the process as simple and quick as possible and to keep the VIN number of the vehicle in your pocket. This number can be found on the paperwork for your vehicle or engraved on a metal plaque that is placed in the door of the driver. This information will assist the emergency car key replacement specialist determine how to go about changing your old key's programming to work with the new one.
3. Try an Pump Wedge
It's best to start with a non-destructive solution, especially if you have young children or pets, as well as elderly people in your car. That way you won't risk needing to call 999 or be charged a high amount from an expert.
One of the most efficient methods to unlock a car is to use an air pump wedge, which are offered in auto lockout kits and also by locksmiths and repo experts. These wedges are made from durable vinyl that can be inflated and deflated quickly. They can be slipped 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 so that you can place the rod's length, which is thin in order to reach the pin that is locked. A coat hanger could be a good choice if it's strong enough, but you could also try a plastic rod or even a blood pressure cuff. The rod should be put between the door and the frame so that you can pull it to unlock the vehicle.
It is recommended to stay clear of these methods unless you are in an emergency. If you don't, the police could have to use more destructive tools to enter the car and save your passengers.
Keep a spare car key home or with someone close to you so you can get back into your vehicle in the event that you are locked out. It is also important to determine if your insurance for your vehicle or roadside assistance policy covers the replacement of keys to your car.
4. Try a Coathanger
The coat hanger trick is a well-known and you've likely seen it in a film. This is a good option for older vehicles with locks that are manual and functions as an easy slim jim. You will require a simple coat hanger that has pliers and a wire.
With the pliers, untwist the coat hanger until it has one side swung and one straight. Slide the hook into the gap between the window frame and door frame. This will allow you to locate the control arm connected to the rod that locks. Once you've found it lift the lever and your door should open.
Another option is to tie a string with an elongated slip knot in the upper right corner of the door for the driver. Then, you can wiggle the string back and forward (like flossing giant teeth) to move it towards the inside lock rod. It may be necessary to use both hands, and it could take several attempts however, if it's successful, the lock will release and you can unlock the door.
You could also try a plastic strip that is bent into a shape that fits into the small gap between the door and frame. This is a harder option but it may be the only option if it's impossible to find your keys.
If you have a spare key, it's recommended to store it somewhere that you can easily access it in case of an emergency. Otherwise, you will have to call for road assistance or a locksmith. Make sure that you have the key code number as well as your personal identification card on to ensure that the locksmith or road assistance can assist you quickly.