3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement
The loss of keys to your car could be a frustrating and stressful experience. There are some things you can do yourself in the event of this happening to you.
First, check the obvious places, such as your purse or pockets. Then, think about buying an extra key and keeping it in a secure place. This can prevent future thefts.
1. Call the Police
If you've lost your keys and can't locate them, the best solution is to contact the police. They can assist you in a variety of ways, not just locksmith or roadside assistance. cheap key replacement car will also be able to inform the general public that someone has possibly stolen your car keys, which can help prevent people from using them without authorization.
However, they are not able to unlock your car door in the event of an emergency situation. This is because they do not have the tools needed to do so and don't want to cause damage to the vehicle. Depending on the circumstances, police may be in a position to use the slim jim to unlock the door, but they'll require a compelling reason for doing so. For example when they spot an animal or small child trapped inside the vehicle in hot weather, they may break the window to save a life.
You should also keep a spare car key somewhere hidden in case you lock yourself out of your car. Some people keep them in easy-to-access locations, such as their home or office. Others lend them to family or friends members to hold onto in the event in the event of an emergency. If you have a spare, try to get it out of the way before calling the police or resorting to more extreme measures.
Many cars come with proximity remotes that come with an emergency code that is hidden. It is possible to use your car, if it is one of these, to unlock the door from a distance using an instrument that locksmiths might possess. It is a thin jim with a flat end that can be used to pick locks.
2. Call a tow truck
Find a company that provides emergency car key replacement if you have lost your keys. It is recommended to keep their contact numbers on your phone under "Emergency," and spend some time researching the services they offer costs, coverage areas, charges technology, and experts.
You will be able to make an informed decision if the need arises. These companies can help you with an emergency key replacement or replacement.
It is recommended to have at least two or three spare keys. Keep one at home, and give one to your spouse or significant other, and keep the other one in your wallet or pocket. This will help you to avoid being stranded in a strange place.
Having a spare can also help you avoid calling for roadside assistance. A new key for a conventional key is typically very affordable. However, the price of a smart-key could be quite costly. These keys use an electronic chip that allows them to control the vehicle. They will need to be connected by a dealer or manufacturer. This could take a few days.
It's a good idea to make the process as simple and quick as is possible, to keep the VIN number of the car in your pocket. This number is usually on your car's paperwork or is often stamped on a metal plate that is located in the driver's side doorpost. This information will assist the emergency car key replacement professional determine the best way to proceed with making your old key work with the new one.
3. Try an Pump Wedge
It's best to begin with a non-destructive solution especially when you have children or pets, as well as elderly people in your vehicle. There's no need to worry about calling 911 or paying a huge bill for an expert.
Air pump wedges are sold in the auto lockout kit as well as by repo and locksmith professionals. They're made from durable, heavy-duty vinyl and are designed to be inflated for a short time before being deflated. You can slip them between the weather stripping and the door without worrying about scratching the paint.
For the majority of cars, a curved wedge is more suitable. The idea is to create space where you can insert the rod to reach the door pin locked. A coat hanger might be a good choice if it's strong enough, but you can try a rod made from plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The rod should be placed between the door and the frame to allow you to pull it to open the vehicle.
It is recommended to stay clear of these techniques unless you're in an emergency. If you don't, police might have to use more destructive tools to gain access to your car and rescue your passengers.
Keep a spare car key home or with a person close to you to allow you to return to your car if you lock yourself out. And, of course you must be sure to verify that car key replacement is covered in your roadside assistance plan or insurance for your car.
4. Try a Coat Hanger
You've likely seen the coat hanger trick in a movie. This is a great solution for older vehicles with locks that are manually operated and functions as a DIY slim jim. All you need is a thin coat hanger with a wire and pliers.
With the pliers, pull off the coat hanger until it has one side swung and one straight. Place the hook in the gap between the window and the door frame. This will help you locate the control arm that is connected to the lock rod. When you locate it, pull it up and the door should open.
Another way is to tie a string with an elongated slip-knot on the upper right corner on the driver's side door. Then, wiggle the string back and forward (like flossing giant teeth) to move it towards the inside lock rod. It is possible to use both hands and it may take several attempts, but if it is successful, the lock should let go and you should be able to unlock the door.
You can also use the plastic strip bent into a shape that fits the narrow gap between door and frame. This is a more difficult choice but it could be the only method to get in the vehicle if you are unable to find your keys.
It is a good idea to keep a spare key in a place where you can find it in case of emergency. You will need to call road assistance or a lock-smith in the event that you don't. Make sure that you have the key code number as well as your personal identification in your person so that road assistance or locksmith can help you out quickly.