Emergency Car Key Replacement: 11 Things You're Forgetting To Do

3 DIY Tips For Emergency Car Key Replacement

Losing your car keys can be a very frustrating experience. There are, however, some steps you can take to help yourself in this circumstance.

First, look in the obvious places, such as your purse or pockets. Then, think about buying an extra key and keeping it in a safe place. This will help prevent thefts in the future.

1. Contact the police

If you've lost your keys and aren't able to find them, the most effective option is to call the police. They will be able to help you more than an auto locksmith or roadside assistance. They could also inform the public that your car keys could be missing to prevent other people from using keys without permission.

However, they won't be able to unlock your car's door unless it is an emergency situation. This is due to the fact that they don't have the tools needed to do this and they don't want to cause damage to the vehicle. In certain circumstances 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 this. For instance when they spot a small child or animal trapped inside the vehicle in hot weather, they could break the window to save the life of a person.

You should also keep an extra car key cover replacement key hidden in case you need to lock yourself out of your car. Some people keep them in easily accessible locations, such as their home or their office. Others give them to family or friends members to hold onto in case in the event of an emergency. If you have a spare, you should try to get it out of the way before calling the police or taking more drastic measures.

A lot of cars come with proximity remotes that come with a hidden emergency code. If yours is one of them, you could be able unlock the doors from a distance by using an instrument that only locksmiths will have. This tool is a flat-ended slim jim that can be used to pick locks.

2. Call a Tow truck

Find a company who provides emergency replacement car keys in the event that you lose your keys. It is recommended to save their contact details on your phone under the heading "Emergency" and then spend time researching what services they provide and their costs as well as their coverage areas, technology and professionals.

You'll be able to make an informed decision if the time comes. These companies can help you with an emergency key replacement or replacement.

The best method to avoid losing your keys is to keep a spare set, and should you be able to, if you can, have three or four sets. Keep one at home, and give one to your partner or significant other, and keep the other in your purse or wallet. This will ensure that you never be stuck in an unfamiliar place.

A spare key could prevent you from having to call roadside assistance. A new key for a traditional key is usually quite affordable. However, the cost of a smart-key can be quite costly. These keys have an electronic chip that allows them to control the vehicle. They will have to be paired with a manufacturer or dealer. This can take several days.

To make the process as quick and easy as it can be it's recommended to have the VIN number of your vehicle in your possession. This can be found on the paperwork of your car or is often stamped on a metal plate in the driver's side doorpost. This information will aid the emergency car key replacement specialist determine the best method for making your old key work with the new one.

3. Try a Pump Wedge

It's always best to try to use a non-destructive approach first especially if you have children, pets, or elderly people in the vehicle. There's no need to worry about calling the number 999 or paying a big bill for a professional.

Air pump wedges are available in auto lockout kits and by repo and locksmith professionals. They are made of high-quality vinyl that can be deflated and inflated quickly. You can slide them between the weather stripping and the door without having to worry about scratching the paint.

For the majority of vehicles, a curving wedge is preferred. The idea is to create a space where you can insert the rod's length and thickness in order to reach the pin that is locked. A coat hanger might be suitable if it's sturdy enough, but you could try a rod made from plastic or even a blood pressure cuff. The aim is to get the rod between the frame and door to allow you to pull it and unlock the car.

It's best to stay clear of these methods unless you have an emergency. If you don't, police may have to employ more destructive tools to enter the car and save your passengers.

Keep an extra car key at home or with a person close to you to allow you to return to your car if you lock yourself out. It is also important to determine if your auto insurance or roadside assistance policy covers car key replacement.

4. Try a Coathanger

The coat hanger trick is a classic, and you've probably seen it in a film. This is a solution for older cars that come with manual locks. It works as the slim jim. All you need is a thin coat hanger with a wire and pliers.

Untwist the coathanger by pliers to ensure that one side is hooked, and emergency car key replacement the other is straight. Slide the hook between the window frame and the door frame. This will help you locate the control arm that is attached to the rod for locking. Once you find it, pull up and the door will open.

Another method is to tie a long string with a slip knot at the upper right corner of the door for the driver. Then, you can wiggle the string back and forward (like flossing giant teeth) to move it towards the rod of the inside lock. It is possible to use both hands and it may take several attempts, but if it is successful, the lock will release and you can open the door.

You can also make use of a plastic strip bent into a shape that fits the narrow gap between door and frame. This is a harder option however it could be your only option if you are unable to find your keys.

If you have a spare key, it is a good idea to leave it somewhere that you are able to access it in the event in an emergency. Otherwise, you will have to call for road assistance or a locksmith. Make sure that you have the key code number as well as your personal identification on your person so that road assistance or locksmith can assist you in a timely manner.