3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your keys to your car may be a frustrating and stressful experience. There are a few things you can do to assist yourself in the event of a loss.
First, look in the obvious places, like your pockets or purse. Next, consider buying car key replacements and keeping it in a safe place. This can help prevent theft in the future.
1. Contact the police
Call the police if you are unable to locate your keys. They can help you in many ways other than an emergency roadside assistance or locksmith. They can also inform the general public that your car keys could have been stolen, which will help prevent others from using them without permission.
They can't open the door of your car unless it is an emergency. They don't have tools and they do not want to damage the vehicle. Based on the situation the police might be capable of using the slim jim to unlock the door, but they'll require a valid reason to do this. For instance, if they see an infant or a pet trapped inside the vehicle in hot weather, they might smash the window to save the life of a person.
It's also a good idea to have a spare key hidden somewhere in case you are locked out of your vehicle. Some people keep them in accessible locations, such as their home or their office. Others offer them to family members or friends members to hold onto in the event in the event of an emergency. If you have a spare, try to reach it before calling the police or taking more extreme measures.
Many cars come with proximity remotes that come with an emergency code that is hidden. If yours is one of them, you might be able unlock the doors from a distance by using the help of a specific tool that a locksmith will possess. This tool is a slim tool with a flat edge that can be used to pick a lock.
2. Call a Tow Truck
Find a business that offers 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 costs, coverage areas, charges technology, and professional.
This will allow you to make an informed decision when the need arises. These companies can help you with an emergency key replacement or replacement.
The best method to avoid losing your keys is to keep an extra set, and if feasible, three or more sets. Keep one set at home, another with your spouse or significant other, and the other in your wallet. This will help you avoid being stuck in a remote location.
A spare key can make it easier to call for assistance on the road. The cost of purchasing a new key for a traditional one is usually quite affordable, however the cost of a smart one can be quite high. These keys utilize an electronic chip to control the vehicle, which means they'll require pairing with the car by a dealer or manufacturer and could take a few days.
To make the process as simple and painless as possible, it's always best to keep the VIN number of your car in hand. This number is usually on your car's registration or is often stamped on a metal plate in the doorpost for the driver's side. This information will help the emergency car key replacement specialist determine the best method for reprograming your old key to work with the new one.
3. Try an Pump Wedge
It's best to start with a non-destructive method especially in the case of children or pets, as well as elderly people in your vehicle. You won't have to risk calling 911 or paying a huge bill for a professional.
Air pump wedges are sold in auto lockout kit and by locksmith and repo professionals. These wedges are made from high-quality vinyl that can be inflated and deflated quickly. This lets you slide them between the door and the weather stripping, without scratching or damaging the paint on the car.
You can make use of wedges of any size, but a curved one is even more suitable for the majority of cars. The idea is to create a space so that you can place the long, thin rod to reach the pin that is locked. A coat hanger might work if it's thick enough, but you can also try a rod made of plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The aim is to get the rod between the frame and the door so that you can pull it out and unlock the car.
The majority of these methods will trigger the car alarm and that's why it's recommended to avoid them unless there is an emergency. If you don't, the police might have to use more destructive tools to get inside your car and rescue your passengers.
Keep a spare key at your home or with a friend to ensure that you have a chance of getting back into your car in case you are locked out. And, of course, you should be sure to confirm that key replacement is included in your roadside assistance plan or insurance for your car.
4. Try Coathanger
The coat hanger trick is a well-known one, and you've likely seen it in a movie. This is a good option for older vehicles that come with locks that are manual, and it works like a DIY slim jim. All you require is a wire coat hanger and pliers.
With the pliers, loosen the coat hanger so that it has one side swung and one straight. Slide the hook between the window frame and the door frame. This will increase your chance of finding the control arm which is attached to the lock rod. Once you've found 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 corner of the door for the driver. Then, 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 could also consider using a plastic strip that you bend into a shape that will fit in the narrow gap between the frame and door. This is a more difficult option but it could be the only way to enter the vehicle if you are unable to locate your keys.
If you have an extra key, it's recommended to store it somewhere where you are able to access it in the event in an emergency. Otherwise, you will have to call for road assistance or a locksmith. You must have your key code number as well as your personal identification in order that road assistance or a locksmith could help you quickly.