3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys could be a traumatic experience. There are, however, some steps you can take to help yourself in this scenario.
Make sure you check the obvious places, such as your purse or pockets. Then, think about purchasing an extra key and keeping it in a safe place. This will prevent any future thefts.
1. Call the police
If you've lost your keys and can't find them, the most effective solution is to contact the police. They can help you in many ways other than a roadside assistance or locksmith. They can also inform the general public that your car keys might be missing and help stop other people from using keys without permission.
However, they won't be able to unlock your car door in the event of an emergency situation. This is due to the fact that they don't have the tools needed to do so and aren't looking to cause damage to the vehicle. In certain circumstances the police might be capable of using an incredibly small jim to open the door, but they will require a valid reason for doing so. For example, if they see an infant or a pet locked inside the car in hot weather, they may cut the window to save the life.
It's also a good idea to keep a spare key hidden somewhere in case you get locked out of your vehicle. Some people keep spare keys in places accessible to them like their office or home. Some give them to family or friends to keep in case of an emergency. If you have a spare, try to reach it before calling the police or resorting to more drastic measures.
Many cars have proximity remotes with a hidden emergency code. You may be able to use your car, if it is one of these, to unlock the door from a distance with an instrument that locksmiths might use. The tool is a small jim with a flat-ended end that can be used to pick locks.
2. Call towing truck
Find a company that provides emergency car key replacement if you have lost your keys. It is recommended to save their contact details on your phone under the heading "Emergency" and then spend time investigating their services as well as their prices and their coverage area. technology and professionals.
You'll be able to make an informed decision if the time comes. Whether you need an emergency locksmith or a replacement 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 should you be able to, if you can, have three or four sets. Keep one at home, and give one to your partner or your significant other, and keep the other one in your purse or wallet. This will help you to avoid being stuck in a strange place.
A spare key can also save you from having to call roadside assistance. The cost of purchasing a new key for a traditional one is usually very affordable, but the cost of a smart one can be quite expensive. These keys utilize an electronic chip to operate the vehicle, therefore they'll need to be paired with the car by a dealer or manufacturer and can take several days.
To make the process as quick and easy as it can be, it's always recommended to keep the VIN number of your car in hand. It can be found on the paperwork of your car or is usually stamped on a metal plate in the doorpost for the driver's side. 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 is always advisable to use a non-destructive method first especially if you have children, pets or elderly people in the vehicle. There's no need to worry about calling 999 or paying a large bill for an expert.
Air pump wedges are sold in the auto lockout kit as well as by locksmith professionals and repo experts. These wedges are made from durable vinyl that can be inflated and deflated quickly. This allows you to slip them between the door and the weather stripping, without scratching or dinging the paint of your car.
For the majority of cars, a curved wedge is better. The idea is to create a space where you can put in the rod's length, which is thin in order to reach the locked pin. If the coat hanger is sturdy enough, it may work. You could also try an aluminum rod or 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.
Almost all of these methods set off the car alarm and that's why it is best to stay clear of them unless there's an emergency. In the event of an emergency, police may have to use an additional tool to enter your vehicle to rescue passengers or pets.
Have a spare key at home or with a trusted friend, so that you have a chance to get back into your car in the event you get locked out. And, of course, you should be sure to confirm that key replacement is covered in your roadside assistance plan or insurance for your vehicle.
4. Try a Coathanger
You've probably seen the coat hanger trick in a film. This is a great solution for older vehicles with locks that are manually operated, and it works like a DIY slim jim. You'll need a small coat hanger, pliers, and a small wire.
With the pliers, pull off 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 give you a greater chance of locating the control arm that's connected to the rod for locking. When you locate it, pull it back and the door will open.
Another way is to tie a string with a slip-knot in the upper right corner on the driver's side of the door. You can move the string in a back-and-forth motion (like flossing a giant tooth) to shift it toward the inside rod of the lock. You may need 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 make use of a plastic strip bent into a shape to fit the narrow gap between door and frame. This is a more difficult choice however it could be the only option to get in the vehicle if you cannot find your keys.
If car key replacements have a spare key, it's a good idea to leave it somewhere that you can easily access it in the event of an emergency. In the event of an emergency, you'll need to call for road assistance or a locksmith. Be sure to have the key code number as well as your personal identification card on your person so that road assistance or locksmith can assist you in a timely manner.