3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your car keys could be an extremely frustrating experience. There are, however, some ways to assist yourself in this situation.
First, check the obvious places, like your purse or pockets. Next, consider buying a spare key and keeping it in a secure place. This can help prevent theft in the future.
1. Call the Police
If you've lost your keys and are unable to find them, the most effective thing to do is call the police. They will be able to assist you more than an auto locksmith or roadside assistance. They will also be able to inform the general public that someone has possibly stolen your car keys which will stop people from using them without permission.
However, they won't be in a position to unlock the door of your car in the event of an emergency situation. They do not have any tools and do not want to damage the vehicle. If the circumstances are right, the police may be able to use a small Jim to open the car door. But, they must have a valid reason to do so. If they find that the child or animal is locked in a car during hot weather, then they could break the window.
It is also advisable to keep a spare car key hidden in case you lock yourself out of your vehicle. Some people keep them in easy-to-access places like their home or office. Others give them to friends or family members to keep in the event in the event of an emergency. If you have an extra make contact with it prior to calling authorities or taking more drastic steps.
A lot of cars have proximity remotes that have an emergency key hidden within them. You may be able, if your car is one of these to open the door from a distance with an instrument that locksmiths might possess. The tool is a small tool with a flat edge that can be used to pick locks.
2. Call a tow truck
Find a company who provides emergency car key replacement if you lose your keys. car key replacement near me is recommended to keep their contact numbers on your phone under "Emergency," and spend some time looking into their services and the charges they charge, coverage area, technology, and professionals.
This will enable you to make an informed decision when the need arises. These companies can assist you with an emergency key replacement or replacement.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is to keep an extra set and, when feasible, three or four sets. Keep one set at home, another with your significant other, and the other in your wallet. This will ensure that you never be stuck in a remote location.
A spare key can make it easier to call for roadside assistance. A new key for a traditional key is usually very affordable. However, the cost of a smart-key can be quite costly. These types of keys make use of an electronic chip to control the vehicle, so they'll need to be paired with the car by a dealer or manufacturer which can take several days.
To make the process as quick and painless as possible it's a good idea to have the VIN number of your vehicle handy. This can be found on the paperwork of your car or is often stamped on a metal plaque in the driver's side doorpost. This information will help the emergency car 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 always advisable to employ a non-destructive method initially especially if you have children, pets, or elderly people in the vehicle. So you don't run the risk of having to call 999, or be charged a high amount from an expert.
Air pump wedges are available in auto lockout kits and by repo and locksmith professionals. They are made of durable vinyl that can be inflated and deflated quickly. You can slip them between the weather stripping and the door without having to worry about scratching the paint.
For the majority of cars, a curved wedge is preferred. The idea is to create a space in which you can insert the rod's length and thickness in order to reach the pin that is locked. A coat hanger might be suitable if it's sturdy enough, but you could also try a rod made of plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The aim is to get the rod between the door and the frame so that you can pull it to unlock the car.
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 enter your vehicle and rescue your pets or your passengers.
Keep an extra car key at home or with someone close to you to allow you to gain access to your vehicle when you lock yourself out. You should also check if your insurance for your vehicle or roadside assistance plan covers the replacement of your car keys.
4. Try a Coat Hanger
You've likely seen the coat hanger trick in a movie. This is a good option for older vehicles that have manual locks, and it works like an easy slim jim. All you require is a coat hanger with a wire and pliers.
With the pliers, pull off the coat hanger until it has one side hooked and one straight. Slide the hook between the window frame and the door frame. This will give you a greater chance of finding the control arm that's connected to the rod for locking. Once you've located it, lift the lever and your door should open.
Another method is to tie a string using an elongated slip-knot on the upper right corner of the driver's side of the door. Then, you can wiggle the string back and forward (like flossing giant teeth) to move it towards the inside lock rod. It may take a few attempts and both hands to get the lock to release.
You can also try using a plastic strip that you bend into a shape that fits into the narrow gap between the door and frame. This is a more difficult option but it may be the only option if you are unable to locate your keys.
If you have a spare key, it is best to keep it somewhere where you are able to 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. You must have your key code number as well as personal identification with you so that road assistance or a locksmith will assist you quickly.