How to Unlock Your Car Without a Locksmith
Few things are more frustrating than locking your keys in the car. This is often the situation when you are in a rush.
Luckily, a locksmith can help. The process is more complicated than simply cutting a new key and programming it into your vehicle. For starters, you have be able to prove the ownership of the vehicle for this procedure.
Transponder Keys
Many car manufacturers of the present have implemented transponder keys into their key system as a measure to prevent theft. They are beneficial because they prevent anyone from copying your key without the right tools. Additionally, the keys contain an embedded chip that sends radio frequency signals to the immobilizer to ensure that only the authorized key is able to start your car. It is important to know if your car is compatible with transponders before making the decision. You can easily verify this by contacting an automotive locksmith and revealing the year and make of your vehicle.
Transponder keys are comprised of an embedded microchip that has a unique serial number that authenticates duplicate and original keys. It also transmits low-level radio signals that are activated only when the key is close to the dashboard or into the ignition to start the car. The signal is not sent when the key is in another position, and is not picked up by scanners.
It is important to understand that a transponder key can only be duplicated by a licensed auto-locksmith or your dealer in cars. If you attempt to duplicate the key on your own the immobilizer might be damaged and won't perform. A non-transponder car key can also cause malfunctions and permanent damage.
It doesn't mean, however, that your car is more secure than one without a transponder key. Car thieves have been known to find ways to evade even the most advanced security system. In fact, the majority of car thieves are now highly trained and equipped with the most advanced technology to ensure that they can rob a vehicle, regardless of whether it has a transponder keys.
Lost Keys
Car keys are light and small they are very easy item to lose. They can also break in locks due a natural wear or because they are caught up in something that isn't expected. This can make it difficult to start the vehicle and you may have to contact a professional to take out the key.
Locksmiths can unlock your car with no problem and for much less than you think. The majority of auto locksmiths can take the key from a lock for about $20, which is significantly less than what you'd have to pay to replace the entire lock.
You can also have a new model made in the event that the original model is not available. This process is more time-consuming because they need to modify the system of the car using specialized equipment. You'll be required to provide your VIN or key identification number. This information is available in your manual or by calling the manufacturer.
It's a good idea to carry around a spare car key in case you accidentally lose yours however if you're prone to losing items, you might think about making an area specifically for your keys somewhere safe, such as the drawer in the kitchen or a coat pocket. You won't have to worry about losing your keys, and you can easily keep track of all your belongings.
It's also a good idea to carry a mobile with a GPS app that can help you find your way back home. This is especially useful when you're at risk of getting lost, and can also come in handy in the event that you get stuck or run out of gas. Pay-per-mile insurance is another alternative. Companies like Metromile offer this type of insurance and can save you money. You pay a fixed monthly cost plus a few pennies per mile. This means that you're always covered in case of an emergency. You can compare quotes with other providers to determine which one is the best for you.
Locked Out
It's the worst feeling in the world to return to your car at the end of a long, tiring day only to find that your keys are in the car. It's easy to feel helpless, but there are methods to unlock your vehicle on your own before you call locksmith. The first step is to try the keypad on the door or the trunk lock, if available. If that fails try opening the window or using a tool such as a Slim Jim (provided you have an additional key in the vicinity). Another option is to call roadside assistance. This service is offered by many automakers as well as third-party companies. www.g28carkeys.co.uk/ might take longer to arrive, but can be cheaper than locksmith.
If you do contact a locksmith, make sure they're MLA-approved. This means they've been vetted, inspected and certified to be competent for the task at hand. You can also look up reviews online to see what people think about the company. It's best to select an area-based locksmith, if you can. They can offer advice on how to improve your security at home. They can, for example recommend installing locks that are more difficult to break, or rekeying locks that are in use to work with the same key.
If you do end up locking your keys in your car, the locksmith can reset the lock to ensure that it operates with a different key or even with the original key that was lost. This is a less expensive option than replacing the lock, and will save you time and money.
Be prepared to avoid this issue. If you know you're likely to lock your keys inside your car, you should leave a spare key with a trusted friend or family member. You can then get inside your car without having to wait for a locksmith, or paying high roadside assistance costs. You can also subscribe for a roadside service or an automaker app that provides on-demand help. They will send technicians within a half hour to your area, and you'll be able to get back on your way.
Broken Keys
It can be frustrating when a key breaks in a lock. There are some DIY techniques you can try, but the best way to proceed is to contact a locksmith. They have the proper tools to complete the task and the expertise to swiftly take out a damaged key without further damaging the lock mechanism.
A key may snap inside the lock if not maintained properly. The repeated removal and inserting of keys could weaken the structure of the key and cause it to wear down its ridges. Additionally, using too excessive force in unlocking or turning the key can cause a key to break. Utilizing a silicone-based lubricant on the lock cylinder can aid in preventing this from happening in the near future.
The most important thing to remember when dealing with a broken key is to stay calm and not be in a panic. Yanking on a snagged key could cause it to become stuck even more and could also push the broken part further into the lock. Instead you can gently jiggle the key or twist it in both directions. If the key is stuck, add a little lubricant.
In cases where the key is buried inside the lock cylinder you can use needle-nose pliers to reach inside and grab the damaged piece. This is a little difficult and requires patience, but if you select the right pliers to do the task, it will work. Avoid using tweezers for this purpose, as they can easily be too big and push the damaged section of the key further into the lock.
Another method to DIY is to use a paperclip to grip the broken portion of the key and then push it out of the lock. This method is more effective when lubricant is used and is much easier to use if the broken portion of the key sticks enough to be able to be held by pliers.
If none of these approaches work, you can always try a pair of specially designed key extractors. They're shaped like a small drill and can be placed inside the lock's cylinder in order to grasp the key fragments and begin pulling them out. This process is best performed in a secure location with a neighbour you trust.