3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
The loss of your car keys can be a traumatic experience. There are, however, some steps you can take to help yourself in this circumstance.
First, look in the obvious locations, like your pockets or purse. Next, consider buying a spare key and storing it in a secure place. This can prevent future thefts.
1. Call the Police
If you've lost your keys and aren't able to find them, the most effective solution is to contact the police. They will be able to help you more than a locksmith or roadside assistance. They will also be able to inform the general public that someone has possibly stolen your car keys which will stop people from using them without permission.
However, they aren't in a position to unlock your car door in the event of an emergency situation. They do not have any tools and they don't want to risk damaging the vehicle. Based on the situation, police may be able to use a slim jim to open the door, but they will require a compelling reason to do so. If they discover that an animal or a child is locked in a vehicle in hot weather, they could break the window.
It's an excellent idea to have an extra key in a safe place in case you are locked out of your vehicle. Some people keep spare keys in places easily accessible such as their office or home. auto car key replacement offer them to friends or family members to keep in the event in the event of an emergency. If you have a spare, try to locate it before calling the police or taking more extreme measures.
Many cars come with proximity remotes that have an emergency code hidden behind them. You may be able, if your car is one of them, to unlock the door from a distance by using the same tool that a locksmith would have. This tool is a slim jim with a flat end that can be used to pick a lock.
2. Call a tow truck
If you lose your car keys the most important thing to do is find a company that provides emergency car key replacement. You should keep their contact details in your phone under the heading "Emergency" and spend some time looking into the services they offer as well as their prices as well as their coverage areas, technology and experts.
This will enable you to make a well-informed decision if the situation arises. These companies can assist you with a replacement or emergency key.
It is best to have at least two or three spare sets of keys. Keep one set at home, another with your spouse or significant other and the third one in your wallet. This will ensure that you do not find yourself stranded in a foreign location.
A spare key could help you avoid having to call for roadside assistance. A new key for a traditional key is usually quite affordable. However, the cost of a smart-key could be quite expensive. These keys use an electronic chip that allows them to operate the car. They will need to be connected with a manufacturer or dealer. This could take a few days.
To make the process as quick and painless as you can, it's always a good idea to keep the VIN number of your vehicle handy. This number can be found on the documents for your vehicle or on a metal plaque that is placed in the doorway of the driver. This information will assist the emergency car key replacement specialist determine the best way to proceed with reprograming your old key to work with the new one.
3. Try a Pump Wedge
It is best to start with a non-destructive solution especially when you have children or pets, as well as elderly people in your car. You don't have to worry about calling 911 or paying a huge bill for an expert.
Air pump wedges are available in auto lockout kit and by locksmith and repo professionals. These wedges are made from heavy-duty vinyl that can be deflated and inflated quickly. This allows you to slide them between the door and the weather stripping, without scratching or dinging the paint of your car.
You can use wedges of any size, but a curved one is even more suitable for cars with a wide range of. The idea is to create a space for you to insert a long, thin rod to reach the locked door pin. A coat hanger could be suitable if it's sturdy enough, but you can try a rod made from plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The rod should be placed between the frame and the door so that you can pull it to open the vehicle.
The majority of these methods will cause the car alarm to go off and that's 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 car and rescue your passengers.
Keep a spare key at your home or with a friend in order to have a chance to get back into your car in the event you lock yourself out. You should also check if your insurance for your vehicle or roadside assistance plan covers the replacement of your car keys.
4. Try a Coat Hanger
The coat hanger trick is a classic and you've likely seen it in a film. This is a great option for older vehicles with locks that are manual and works as a DIY slim jim. All you need is a thin wire coat hanger and pliers.
With the pliers, untwist the coat hanger until it has one side swung and one straight. Slide the hook between the window frame and the door frame. This will allow you to locate the control arm connected to the lock rod. Once you've located it, lift the lever and your door will open.
Another option is to tie a long string using a slip knot in the upper right corner of the door for the driver. Then, you can wiggle the string back and forward (like flossing huge teeth) to move it towards the rod inside the lock. It is possible to use both hands and it could take several attempts however, if it's successful, the lock will be released and you will be able to unlock the door.
You can also make use of a plastic strip bent into a form to fit the narrow gap between door and frame. This is a more difficult choice but it could be the only way to enter the vehicle if you cannot locate your keys.
If you have a spare key, it's recommended to store it somewhere that you can easily access it in the event in an emergency. If you don't, you'll have to call for road assistance or a locksmith. Make sure you have the key code number as well as your personal identification card on to ensure that the road assistance or locksmith can assist you quickly.