3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your keys to your car can be a stressful experience. There are, however, some steps you can take to help yourself in this circumstance.
The first step is to check the obvious locations, like your pockets or purse. Next, consider buying a spare key and storing it in a safe place. This will help to prevent theft in the future.
1. Call the Police
Call the police if you cannot locate your keys. They will be able assist you more than an auto locksmith or roadside assistance. They can also inform the general public that your car keys could be missing, which will help prevent others from using keys without authorization.
However, they aren't capable of unlocking your car's door unless there is an emergency situation. They do not have any tools and don't want the vehicle damaged. If the circumstances are appropriate, the police may be able to use a slim Jim to open the car's door. However, they must have a legitimate motive to do so. If they discover that the child or animal is locked in a vehicle during hot weather, then they could break the window.
You should also keep a spare car key somewhere hidden in case you lock yourself out of your car. Some people keep them in easily accessible places, like their home or office. Some people give them to family or friends to keep in case of an emergency. If you have an extra contact it before calling authorities or taking more drastic measures.
Many cars come with proximity remotes that have an emergency key inside. You may be able, if your car is one of them to open the door from a distance by using the same tool that a locksmith might possess. The tool is a small tool with a flat edge that can be used to pick a lock.
2. Call for a Tow Truck
If you lose your car keys The most important thing you can do is find a company that offers emergency car key replacement. You should save their contact details on your phone under the heading "Emergency" and spend some time investigating their services as well as their prices and their coverage area. technology and professionals.
This will help you make an informed decision when the situation arises. No matter if you require an emergency locksmith or a new key, these companies can assist you in getting back on the road with little hassle.
The best method to avoid losing your keys is to have a spare set, and if you can, have three or more sets. Keep one at home, give one to your spouse or your significant other, and then keep the other in your purse or wallet. This will ensure that you do not be stuck in an unfamiliar place.
A spare key can also save you from needing to call roadside assistance. A new key for a standard key is typically very affordable. However, the price of a smart-key could be quite expensive. They are equipped with an electronic chip that allows them to control the vehicle. They will need to be connected with a manufacturer or dealer. This can take several days.
To make the process as fast and painless as possible, it's always recommended to keep the VIN number of your vehicle handy. It's possible to find this number on the documentation for your vehicle, or engraved on a metal plaque that is placed in the doorway of the driver. This information will help the emergency key replacement professional determine how to go about changing your old key's programming to work with the new one.
3. Try an Pump Wedge
It is best to start with a non-destructive treatment especially if you have young children, pets, or elderly people in your car. There's no need to worry about calling 911 or paying a huge bill for an expert.
Air pump wedges are sold in the auto lockout kit as well as by locksmith professionals and repo experts. They're made from tough, heavy-duty vinyl and are designed to be inflated for a brief time before being deflated. This allows you to slip them between the door and the weather stripping without risking scratching or damaging the paint of your car.
For the majority of vehicles, a curving wedge is better. The idea is to create space in which you can place an extremely thin rod to reach the pin that locks your door. If the coat hanger is thick enough, it may work. You can also use an aluminum rod or a blood pressure cuff. The goal is to place the rod between the frame and door to allow you to pull it and unlock the car.
The majority of these methods set off the car alarm and that's why it is best to stay clear of them unless there is an emergency. If you don't, police could have to use more destructive tools to enter the car and save your passengers.
Keep a spare car key home or with a person close to you to allow you to return to your car if you lock yourself out. And, of course, you should be sure to confirm that key replacement is part of your roadside assistance plan or auto insurance.
4. Try a Coat Hanger
The coat hanger trick is a classic and you've probably seen it in a movie. This is a great option for older vehicles that come with locks that are manually operated and works as an easy slim jim. All you require is a thin wire coat hanger and pliers.
Untwist the coathanger by pliers so that one side is hooked and the other side is straight. Slide the hook between the window frame and the door frame. This will help you locate the control arm that is connected to the rod for locking. Once you've located it, push the lever upwards and your door should open.
Another method is to tie a long string with a slip knot at the upper right-hand corner of the driver's door. Then, you can wiggle the string back and forth (like flossing huge teeth) to move it towards the inside lock rod. You may need to use both hands, and it could take a few attempts however, if you are successful, the lock will release and you can open the door.
You can also try using a plastic strip that you bend into a shape that will fit in the gap between the door and frame. This is a more challenging option but it could be the only method to get into the vehicle if you are unable to find your keys.
If replacement for key fob have an extra key, it is recommended to store it in a place where you can easily access it in the event of an emergency. If you don't, you'll have to call for road assistance or a locksmith. Make sure that you have the key code number as well as your personal identification in hand so that the locksmith or road assistance will be able to help you out quickly.