3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
The loss of keys to your car can be a frustrating experience. There are some steps you can do to assist yourself in the event of a loss.
First, check the obvious places, like your pockets or purse. Next, consider purchasing a spare key and storing it in a secure location. This can help prevent theft in the future.
1. Contact the police
Contact the police if you are unable to locate your keys. They can assist you in more ways than a roadside assistance or locksmith. They can also inform the public that your car keys could have been stolen, which will help prevent others from using them without permission.
They are not able unlock the door of your car unless it is an emergency. They do not have any tools and they don't want the vehicle damaged. If the circumstances are suitable the police may be able use a slim Jim to open the car's door. But, replacement key for car near me must have a legitimate motive to do this. If they see that the child or animal is locked in a car in the heat, they may 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 their spare keys in areas that are easy to access such as their home or office. Others offer them to friends or family members to hold onto in case in the event of an emergency. If you have an extra contact it before calling the authorities or taking more drastic steps.
Many cars come with proximity remotes that conceal an emergency key inside. You might be able in the event that your vehicle is one of these to open the door from a distance by using an instrument that locksmiths might have. The tool is a small jim with a flat end that can be used to pick a lock.
2. Call for a Tow Truck
If you have lost your car keys the most important thing you can do is find a company that offers emergency replacement of car keys. It is best to save their contact numbers in your phone under "Emergency," and spend some time researching the services they offer and the charges they charge, coverage area, technology, and professionals.
This will help you make a well-informed decision if the need arises. If you require an emergency locksmith or an extra key, these companies will help you get back on the road with minimal hassle.
It is recommended to have at least two or three spare keys. Keep car key replacement near me set at home, one with your spouse or significant person and the third one in your wallet. This will help you to avoid being stranded in a secluded spot.
A spare key could save you from needing to call roadside assistance. The cost of a new key for a traditional key is usually very affordable, but the price of a smart key could be quite costly. These keys have an electronic chip that allows them to control the car. They will need to be connected with a manufacturer or dealer. This can take a number of days.
To make the process as quick and easy as it can be it's a good idea to have the VIN number of your car in hand. This number is usually on the paperwork of your car or is often stamped on a metal plate in the doorpost for the driver's side. This information will enable the technician to modify your old key to ensure that it functions with the new key.
3. Try a Pump Wedge
It is best to start with a non-destructive method especially if you have young children or pets, as well as elderly people in your car. There's no need to worry about calling 999 or paying a large bill for an expert.
Air pump wedges are sold in auto lockout kits and by repo and locksmith professionals. They are made of durable, heavy-duty vinyl and are designed to be inflated for a short time before being deflated. You can slide them between the weather stripping and the door without having to worry about scratching the paint.
For most cars, a curved wedge is preferred. The idea is to create a space in which you can place the rod's length, which is thin in order to reach the pin that is locked. If the coat hanger is strong enough, it may be able to work. You could also try a plastic rod, or even a blood-pressure cuff. The rod should be put between the door and the frame to allow you to pull it to unlock the vehicle.
Most of these methods trigger the car alarm, which is why it is best to stay clear of them unless there is an emergency. If you don't, the police may have to employ more destructive tools to gain access to your vehicle and save your passengers.
Have a spare key at your home or with a friend to ensure that you have a chance of getting back in your vehicle in the event that you lock yourself out. Also, make sure that your auto insurance or roadside assistance plan covers the replacement of your car keys.
4. Try Coathanger
The coat hanger trick is a well-known one, and you've likely seen it in a film. This is a great solution for older vehicles that have manual locks and works as a DIY slim jim. All you need is a thin coat hanger made of wire and pliers.
With the pliers, loosen the coat hanger so that it has one side hooked and one straight. The hook should be inserted into the gap between the window and door frame. This will allow you to locate the control arm that is connected to the lock rod. Once you find it, pull it up and the door should open.
Another option is to tie a string using an elongated slip-knot on the upper right corner of the driver's side door. Then, you can wiggle the string back and back and forth (like flossing huge teeth) to move it towards the inside lock rod. It may be necessary to use both hands, and it could take a few attempts, but if it is successful, the lock should release and you can open the door.
You can also try using a strip of plastic that is bent into a shape that fits into the small gap between the frame and door. This isn't the most ideal solution however it could be your only option if you are unable to locate your keys.
If you have an extra key, it is recommended to store it in a place where you are able to access it in case of an emergency. Otherwise, you will have to call road assistance or a locksmith. Make sure that you have the key code number as well as your personal identification card on hand so that the road assistance or locksmith can assist you in a timely manner.