3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
Losing your keys to your car could be a frustrating and stressful experience. There are a few things you can do to assist yourself in the event of a loss.
The first step is to check the obvious places, like your pockets or purse. Then, think about purchasing a spare key and keeping it in a safe place. This will help prevent thefts in the future.
1. Call the Police
If you've lost your keys and are unable to find them, the most effective option is to call the police. They can assist you more than a locksmith or roadside assistance. They'll also be able to inform the public that someone may have possibly stolen your car keys which can help prevent people from using them without authorization.
They're not able to unlock 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 able to use a slim jim to open the door, but they'll need to have a good reason to do so. If they discover that the child or animal is locked inside a vehicle in the heat, they may break the window.
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 spare keys in places accessible to them such as their office or home. Others give them to family or friends members to keep in the event of an emergency. If you have a spare make contact with it prior to calling authorities or taking more drastic actions.
Many cars come with proximity remotes with an emergency code that is hidden. If yours is one of them, you could be able to unlock the doors from a distance using the help of a specific tool that locksmiths will have. car key replacement remote is a slim tool with a flat edge that can be used to pick locks.
2. Call a Tow Truck
If you lose your car keys the most important thing you can do is locate a company that provides emergency car key replacement. 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 professionals.
This will enable you to make a well-informed decision if the need arises. If you require an emergency locksmith or a replacement key, these companies will help you get back on the road with minimal hassle.
The best method to avoid losing your keys is to keep an extra set and, when you can, have two or three sets. Keep one set at home, another with your significant person, and the other in your wallet. This will ensure that you do not end up in a remote location.
A spare key can also save you from having to call roadside assistance. A new key for a conventional key is typically 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, which means they'll need to be paired with the car by a dealership or manufacturer and can take several days.
To make the process as fast and painless as you can it's recommended to have the VIN number of your car in hand. This number is usually on your car's registration or, more often, on a metal plate in the driver's side doorpost. This will allow the professional to modify your old key so that it functions with the new key.
3. Try a Pump Wedge
It is best to start with a non-destructive treatment especially in the case of children or pets, or elderly people in your vehicle. This way, you don't have the risk of needing to call 999 or pay a large bill from an expert.
Air pump wedges can be found in auto lockout kits and by locksmith professionals and repo experts. The wedges are made of 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.
For the majority of vehicles, a curving wedge is better. The idea is to create space in which you can place the rod to reach the door pin locked. A coat hanger might work if it's thick enough, but you could try a rod made from plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The rod should be put between the frame and the door so that you can pull it to unlock the vehicle.
It is best to avoid these methods unless you are in an emergency. If not, the police might have to use an even more destructive method to enter your vehicle and save your passengers or pets.
Keep a spare key somewhere at home or with a trusted 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 verify that car key replacement is part of your roadside assistance plan or insurance for your vehicle.
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 option for older vehicles that have locks that are manually operated and works as an easy slim jim. You'll need a small coat hanger that has pliers and a small wire.
With the pliers, pull off the coat hanger until it has one end hooked and one straight. Slide the hook into the gap between the window frame and door frame. This will help you locate the control arm that is attached to the lock rod. When you locate it, pull it up and the door will open.
Another option is to tie a string using a slip-knot in the upper right corner on the driver's side door. Then, you can wiggle the string back and back and forth (like flossing giant teeth) to move it towards the inside lock rod. It may be necessary to use both hands, and it could take several attempts, but if it is successful, the lock will let go and you should be able to open the door.
You could also consider using a strip of plastic that you bend into a shape that will fit in the gap between the door and frame. This is a more difficult option however it could be your only option if it's impossible to locate your keys.
It is a good idea to keep a spare key in a place where that you can easily locate in the event of an emergency. In the event of an emergency, you'll need to call 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 can help you quickly.