3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement

Losing your keys to your car could be a frustrating and stressful experience. There are some steps you can do to help yourself in the event of this happening to you.

The first step is to check the obvious places, such as your purse or Emergency Car Key Replacement pockets. Then, think about buying a spare key and storing it in a safe place. This will help prevent thefts in the future.

1. Call the Police

Call the police if you cannot find your keys. They can help you in more ways than an emergency roadside assistance or locksmith. They'll also be capable of informing the general public that someone has possibly taken your car keys, which could prevent others from using keys without authorization.

However, they aren't capable of unlocking your car door in the event of an emergency situation. They don't have tools and do not want to damage the vehicle. Depending on the circumstances the police might be capable of using the slim jim to unlock the door, but they'll require a valid reason to do so. For instance in the event that they see a small child or animal trapped inside the vehicle in hot weather, they might break the window to save a life.

It is also advisable to keep a spare cheapest car key replacement key hidden in case you have to lock yourself out of your car. Some people keep them in easy-to-access places, like their home or office. Some people give them to friends or family members to keep in case of emergency. If you have a spare, reach out to it prior to calling the authorities or taking more drastic measures.

Many cars come with proximity remotes that conceal an emergency key inside. It is possible in the event that your vehicle is one of them, to unlock the door from a distance using a special tool a locksmith would possess. It is how much does a replacement car key cost uk slim jim with a flat-ended end that can be used to pick locks.

2. Call a Tow truck

If you have lost your car keys the most important thing to do is find a company that provides emergency car key replacement. You should save their contact details in your phone under the heading "Emergency" and spend some time researching what services they provide as well as their prices, their coverage area, technology and experts.

You'll be able make a well-informed decision when the need arises. These companies can assist with the replacement of your key or an emergency one.

It is advisable to have two or three spare keys. Keep one set at home, another with your important person, and the other in your wallet. This will help you avoid being stranded in a strange place.

A spare key can make it easier to call for assistance on the road. A new key for a conventional key is usually very affordable. However, the price of a smart-key could be quite costly. These types of keys use an electronic chip that operates the vehicle, therefore they'll require pairing with the car by a manufacturer or dealer which can take several days.

It's a good idea to make the process as easy and fast as you can, to keep the VIN number of the vehicle in your pocket. This can be found on your car's registration or is often stamped on a metal plate that is located in the driver's side doorpost. This information will assist the emergency key replacement professional determine the best method for reprograming your old key to work with the new one.

3. Try a Pump Wedge

It is always advisable to use a non-destructive approach first particularly if you have children, pets, or elderly people in the vehicle. There's no need to worry about calling 999 or paying a large bill for an expert.

One of the simplest ways to unlock your vehicle is with an air pump wedge, which are sold in auto lockout kits, and also by repo and locksmith professionals. The wedges are made of high-quality vinyl that can be inflated and deflated quickly. They can be slipped between the weather stripping and the door without worrying about scratching the paint.

You can use a standard wedge, or a curved one is more suitable for the majority of cars. The idea is to create a space in which you can put in the long, thin rod to reach the pin that is locked. A coat hanger might be suitable if it's sturdy enough, but you can try a rod made from plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The aim is to get the rod between the door and the frame so you can pull it and unlock the car.

The majority of these methods cause the car alarm to go off This is why it's recommended to avoid them unless there's an emergency. Otherwise, the police may require an additional tool to get into your vehicle to rescue passengers or pets.

Keep a spare car key home or with someone close to you in case you need to gain access to your vehicle if you lock yourself out. Also, make sure that your auto insurance or roadside assistance policy covers car key replacement.

4. Try a Coat Hanger

You've probably seen the coat hanger trick in a film. This is a great option for older vehicles with locks that are manual and functions as an easy slim jim. All you need is a thin coat hanger made of wire and pliers.

With the pliers, untwist the coat hanger until it has one side hooked and one straight. Slide the hook between the window frame and the door frame. This will allow you to locate the control arm that is attached to the lock rod. Once you've found it lift the lever and your door should open.

Another method is to tie a string using an elongated slip-knot on the upper right corner on the driver's side door. Then, move the string back and forward (like flossing massive teeth) to move it towards the inside lock rod. It may take a few attempts and both hands to allow the lock to be released.

You can also make use of a strip of plastic bent into a shape that fits the gap between the door and frame. This is a more challenging option, but it may be the only method to enter the vehicle if you are unable to find your keys.

It is a good plan to keep a spare key somewhere you can find it in case of emergency. In the event of an emergency, you'll need to call for road assistance or a locksmith. You should have your key code number as well as personal identification with you so that road assistance or a locksmith can help you promptly.