3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
The loss of keys to your car may be a stressful experience. Fortunately, there are a few ways to assist yourself in this situation.
Check obvious places like your purse or pockets. Consider buying an extra and keeping it in a safe place. This can prevent future thefts.
1. Contact the police
If you've lost your keys and are unable to find them, the best solution is to contact the police. They can assist you in more ways than an emergency roadside assistance or locksmith. They will also be capable of informing the public that someone may have possibly stolen your car keys, which can help prevent people from using keys without authorization.
However, they are not capable of unlocking the door of your car in the event of an emergency situation. This is due to the fact that they don't have the proper tools to do so and aren't looking to cause damage to the vehicle. If the circumstances are suitable the police might be able to use a small Jim to open the car's door. But, they must have a legitimate reason to do so. If they discover 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 need to lock yourself out of your car. Some people keep spare keys in areas accessible to them such as their office or home. Others lend them to family or friends members to keep in case of an emergency. If you have a spare contact it prior to calling the authorities or taking more drastic steps.
Many cars come with proximity remotes that have an emergency code hidden behind them. If yours is one of them, you might be able unlock the doors from a distance with the help of a specific tool that a locksmith will possess. This tool is a slim jim with a flat end that can be used to pick locks.
2. Call a tow truck
Find a company who provides emergency replacement of car keys if you lose your keys. You should store their contact numbers on your phone under "Emergency," and spend some time researching the services they offer, charges, coverage area technology, and professional.
You'll be able make an informed decision if the time comes. These companies can assist you with the replacement of your key or an emergency one.
The best method to avoid losing your keys is to have an extra set and, if feasible, three or more sets. Keep one at home, then give one to your spouse or your significant other, and then keep the other in your purse or wallet. This will help you to avoid being stuck in a remote location.
A spare key can 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 can be quite expensive. They are equipped with an electronic chip that allows them to operate the car. They must be connected by a dealer or manufacturer. This can take a number of days.
To make the process as simple and painless as you can it's recommended to keep the VIN number of your vehicle in your possession. This number can be found on the documentation for your vehicle, or on a plaque made of metal in the driver's doorpost. This information will enable the technician to modify your old key to ensure that it can work with the new key.
3. Try an Pump Wedge
It is best to start with a non-destructive treatment particularly when you have children, pets, or elderly people in your 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 a vehicle is with an air pump wedge, that are available in auto lockout kits, and also by repo and locksmith experts. These wedges are made from high-quality vinyl that can be deflated and inflated quickly. This allows you to slide them between the door and the weather stripping without risking scratching or damaging the paint of the car.
For replacement auto key of vehicles, a curving wedge is more suitable. The idea is to create space in which you can place the rod to reach the pin that locks your door. A coat hanger could be a good choice if it's strong enough, but you can also try a plastic rod or even a blood pressure cuff. The aim is to get the rod between the frame and the door so you can pull it out and unlock the car.
It's best to stay clear of these methods unless you are in an emergency. Otherwise, the police may have to use an even more destructive method to get into your vehicle to rescue pet or passengers.
Keep an extra car key at home or with a person close to you to allow you to gain access to your vehicle if you lock yourself out. Also you must be sure to check whether car key replacement is covered in your roadside assistance plan or auto insurance.
4. Try a Coat Hanger
You've likely seen the coat hanger trick in a movie. This is a great solution for older vehicles that have locks that are manually operated and functions as an easy slim jim. All you require is a thin coat hanger with a wire and pliers.
Untwist the coathanger using 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 lock rod. Once you've found it, push the lever upwards and your door should open.
Another option is to tie a string with a slip knot at the upper right-hand corner of the door for the driver. Move the string in a back-and-forth motion (like flossing a tooth) to pull it towards the inside lock rod. It may take a few attempts and both hands to unlock the lock.
You can also make use of a strip of plastic bent into a shape that fits the narrow gap between door and frame. This is a harder option however it could be your only option if you are unable to locate your keys.
If replacement auto key have a spare key, it's a good idea to leave it in a place where you can easily access in case of an emergency. In the event of an emergency, you'll need to call for road assistance or a locksmith. Make sure that you have the key code number and your personal identification on to ensure that the locksmith or road assistance can assist you quickly.