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 scenario.
First, check the obvious places, like your purse or pockets. Consider purchasing an extra and keeping it in a safe place. This will prevent any future thefts.
1. Call the Police
If you've lost car key replacement your keys and aren't able to locate them, the best solution is to contact the police. They can help you in many ways other than a roadside assistance or locksmith. They could also inform the public that your car keys may have been stolen and help stop others from using keys without permission.
However, they won't be able to unlock your car's door in the event of an emergency situation. They don't have tools and they don't want the vehicle damaged. In certain circumstances the police may be in a position to use a slim jim to open the door, but they will need to have a good reason for doing so. For instance, if they see an animal or small child trapped inside the vehicle in hot weather, they might smash the window to save a life.
You should also keep a spare car key somewhere hidden in case you have to lock yourself out of your vehicle. Some people keep them in easily accessible places, like their home or their office. Others give them to family or friends members to hold onto 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 with an emergency code hidden behind them. You may be able to use your car key cover replacement, if it is one of these, to unlock the door from a distance by using the same tool that a locksmith might possess. This tool is a slim jim with a flat end that can be used to pick locks.
2. Contact a Tow truck
If you lose your car keys The most important thing you can do is locate a company that can provide an emergency replacement of car keys. You should save their contact information in your phone under the heading "Emergency" and then spend time investigating their services as well as their prices as well as their coverage areas, technology and professionals.
You'll be able to make an informed decision if the need arises. These companies can assist you with an emergency key replacement or replacement car key cost.
It is advisable to have at least two or three spare keys. Keep one set at home, one with your spouse or significant other and the third in your wallet. This will help you to avoid being stranded in a secluded spot.
A spare key can prevent you from needing to call roadside assistance. A new key for a conventional key is usually very affordable. However, the price of a smart-key can be quite costly. These types of keys use an electronic chip to control the vehicle, therefore they'll have to be linked with the vehicle by a dealership or manufacturer and can take several days.
It's a good idea, to make the process as simple and quick as is possible you keep the VIN number of the vehicle in your pocket. This can be found on your car's registration or is usually stamped on a metal plate in the doorpost for the driver's side. This information will enable the professional to modify your old key to ensure that it functions with the new key.
3. Try a Pump Wedge
It is best to start with a non-destructive method especially if you have young children, pets, or elderly people in your car. There's no need to worry about calling the number 999 or paying a big bill for an expert.
Air pump wedges are available in the auto lockout kit as well as by repo and locksmith professionals. These wedges are made from heavy-duty vinyl that can be deflated and inflated quickly. This lets you slide them between the door and the weather stripping without risking scratching or dinging the paint of the car.
For the majority of cars, a curved wedge is preferred. The idea is to create space for you to insert a long, thin rod to reach the locked door pin. A coat hanger might work if it's thick enough, but you can try a rod made from plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The goal is to place the rod between the door and the frame so you can pull it to unlock the car.
It is recommended to stay clear of these methods unless you are in an emergency. If you don't, the police may have to employ more destructive tools to gain access to the car and save your passengers.
Keep a spare car key home or with a friend near you in case you need to return to your car when you lock yourself out. Of course it is important to check whether car key replacement is covered in your roadside assistance plan or insurance for your car.
4. Try a Coat Hanger
You've probably seen the coat hanger trick in a film. This is a great solution for older vehicles that come with locks that are manually operated and works as a DIY slim jim. All you need is a thin wire coat hanger and pliers.
Untwist the coathanger with pliers until one side is snared and the other straight. Place the hook in the gap between the window and door frame. This will allow you to locate the control arm that is connected to the rod that locks. Once you find it, pull it back and the door will open.
Another option is to tie a string with a slip-knot located in the upper right corner of the driver's side door. You can move the string in a back-and-forth motion (like flossing a tooth) to pull 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 will be released and you will be able to open the door.
You could also consider using a strip of plastic that can be bent into a form that will fit in the small gap between the door and the frame. This is a more difficult choice but it could be the only option to get in the vehicle in case you can't locate your keys.
If you have a spare key, it is recommended to store it in a place where you can easily access in case of an emergency. Otherwise, you will have to call road assistance or a locksmith. Make sure that you have the key code number and your personal identification in your person so that road assistance or locksmith can help you out quickly.