3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your keys to your car could be a frustrating experience. Luckily, there are some actions you can take to help yourself in this scenario.
First, check the obvious places, such as your purse or pockets. Consider purchasing an extra and keeping it in a secure place. This will prevent any future thefts.
1. Call the Police
If you've lost your keys and aren't able to find them, the best solution is to contact the police. They will be able assist you more than a locksmith or roadside assistance. They will also be able to inform the public that someone has possibly stolen your car keys, which could prevent others from using them without permission.
However, they aren't able to unlock the door of your car unless there is an emergency situation. This is because they do not have the tools needed to do this and they don't want to cause damage to the vehicle. If the circumstances are suitable the police might be able to use a small Jim to open the door of the car. But, they must have a legitimate reason for doing this. For instance, if they see an infant or a pet trapped inside the vehicle in hot weather, they could break the window to save the life.
You should also keep a spare car key hidden in case you have to lock yourself out of your car. Some people keep them in accessible locations, such as their home or their office. Some give them to family or friends to keep in case of an emergency. If you have a spare, you should try to locate it before calling the police or taking more drastic measures.
A lot of cars come with proximity remotes that come with an emergency code hidden behind them. If yours is one of them, you could be able to unlock the doors from a distance by using a special tool that a locksmith will possess. The tool is a small jim with a flat-ended end that can be used to pick locks.
2. Contact towing truck
Find a company that provides emergency replacement of car keys if you have lost your keys. It is recommended to save their contact information in your phone under the heading "Emergency" and spend time researching what services they provide, their charges, their coverage area, technology and professionals.
This will allow you to make an informed choice when the need arises. No matter if you require an emergency locksmith or a new key, these companies will assist you in getting back to your vehicle with minimum hassle.
The best way to prevent losing your keys is to keep an extra set and, if you can, have three or four sets. Keep one set at home, another with your spouse or significant other and the third in your wallet. This will allow you to avoid being stranded in a remote location.
A spare key can help you avoid calling for assistance on the road. A new key for a traditional key is usually very affordable. However, the cost of a smart-key could be quite costly. They are equipped with an electronic chip that allows them to control the car. They will have to be paired with a manufacturer or dealer. This can take several days.
To make the process as fast and easy as it can be, it's always a good idea to have the VIN number of your vehicle in your possession. This number is usually on your car's registration or, more often, on a metal plate in the driver's side doorpost. This information will enable the technician to reprogram your old key so that it works with the new key.
3. Try a Pump Wedge
It is always advisable to use a non-destructive approach first particularly if you have young children, pets or elderly people in the car. So you don't run the risk of having to call 999, or incur a high bill from a professional.
One of the simplest ways to unlock your vehicle is with an air pump wedge which are sold in auto lockout kits, and also by repo and locksmith experts. These wedges are made from durable vinyl that can be inflated and deflated quickly. This allows you to slide them between the door and the weather stripping, without scratching or damaging the paint of your car.
You can use an ordinary wedge, or a curved one is even more suitable for the majority of cars. The idea is to create space where you can insert the rod to reach the pin that locks your door. If the coat hanger is strong enough, it could be able to work. You can also use a plastic rod, or even a blood-pressure cuff. replacement auto key fob is to place the rod between the frame and the door so that you can pull it out and unlock the car.
Most of these methods cause the car alarm to go off This is why it's best to avoid them unless there's an emergency. If you don't, police may have to employ more destructive tools to enter the car and save your passengers.
Keep a spare key somewhere at home or with a trusted friend to ensure that you have a chance to get back in 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 plan covers the replacement of keys to your car.
4. Try a Coathanger
You've probably seen the coat hanger trick in a movie. This is a great solution for older vehicles that come with locks that are manual and works as an easy slim jim. You will require a simple coat hanger with pliers and a small wire.
Untwist the coathanger with pliers so that one side is snared and the other 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 lock rod. Once you find it, pull it up and the door will open.
Another option is to tie a string with a slip-knot located in the upper right corner on the driver's side of the door. Move the string in a back-and-forth motion (like flossing a giant tooth) to pull it towards the inside rod of the lock. It could take a few attempts and both hands to unlock the lock.
You could also consider using a strip of plastic that can be bent into a form that fits into the narrow gap between the door and the frame. This is a more difficult choice, but it may be the only way to get in the vehicle in case you can't find your keys.
It is a good plan to keep a spare key somewhere you can easily find it in the event of an emergency. In the event of an emergency, you'll need to call road assistance or a locksmith. It is recommended to carry your key code number and personal identification with you so that road assistance or a locksmith can assist you quickly.