How to Unlock Your Car Without a Locksmith
There is nothing more annoying than locking your keys in the car. This is often the situation when you are in a rush.
A locksmith can assist. The process is more complex than simply cutting a brand new key and programming it into your vehicle. In the beginning, you'll need to be able to prove the ownership of your car for this procedure.
Transponder Keys
Many modern car manufacturers have implemented transponder keys into their key system as a measure to prevent theft. The advantage of these is that they prevent people from copying your key without the help of specialized tools. Moreover, the keys have an embedded chip that sends radio frequency signals to the immobilizer in order to ensure that only the authorized key is able to start your car. However, it's important to know whether your vehicle has a transponder key or not so that you can make the right choice. You can easily determine this by contacting a professional automotive locksmith and asking them about the year, model, and make of your car.
Transponder keys consist of an embedded microchip that has a unique serial number that authenticates original and duplicate keys. It also transmits low-level radio signals that are activated only when the key is positioned close to the dashboard or is inserted into the ignition to start the car. The signal isn't transmitted when the key is in a different position and can't be recognized by scanners or by radio transmitters.
It is important to understand that a transponder key is able to only be duplicated by a licensed auto-locksmith or your dealer in cars. If you try to duplicate the key on your own the immobilizer could be damaged and it won't perform. In addition, trying to start your car with a non-transponder key could also lead to failure and permanent damage.
However, this doesn't mean that your car is less secure than a non-transponder vehicle because car thieves have been recognized for their ability to circumvent even the most sophisticated security systems. In fact, most car thieves nowadays are highly trained and are equipped with the latest technology to ensure that they are able to steal a car, regardless of whether it has a transponder key.
Lost Keys
Car keys are small and light, which makes them a very easy thing to lose. They can also be prone to snapping off in locks, either because of normal wear and tear or when they're caught on something that's unexpectedly. When this happens, it can be very difficult to start your vehicle and you'll require specialized services to unlock the key.
Fortunately, locksmiths can usually unlock your car with no issue, and will usually accomplish this at a lower cost than you think. Most auto locksmiths can get your key out of the lock for around $20, which is a lot less than you'd pay to replace the whole thing.
They can also create a new key for you, even if you do not have the original key on hand. The process will take longer as they need to modify the car's system with special equipment. They'll also need to know your VIN number or the key identification number, which you might find in your manual or you can get from the manufacturer of your car.
It's a good idea to carry around a spare car key in case you lose yours however if you're susceptible to losing things, you may think about making an area specifically for your keys in a safe place, such as the kitchen drawer or in a coat pocket. You don't have to be concerned about losing a key and you'll be able to keep track of all your belongings.
locksmith automotive should also have your phone with an application for GPS to help you find your home. This is especially helpful if your tendency is to lose track of your destination. It could be extremely helpful in the event that you have run out of gas or have a breakdown. Pay-per-mile insurance is another alternative. Companies such as Metromile offer this type of insurance and can help you save money. You pay a small monthly fixed rate plus some cents per mile, which means you'll be covered for any emergency. You can compare quotes with other companies to see which one is 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 discover that your keys are inside. You may feel helpless but there are ways to unlock your vehicle yourself before you call locksmith. If you have the trunk lock or keypad, you can try them out first. If that fails, try reaching through the window or using a device such as a Slim Jim (provided you have an extra key nearby). You can also call roadside assistance. Many automakers provide this service, as do third-party companies. These services can take a bit longer to arrive, but they are less expensive than an experienced locksmith.
If you do decide to call a locksmith, be sure they're MLA-approved. This means they have been thoroughly vetted, checked and certified as being competent to perform the job. You can also check online reviews to see what other customers have to say about the company. If you can, try to go with an area-based locksmith, since they can give you advice about improving your home security. For instance, they may suggest installing locks that are more difficult to break or rekey the existing ones to work with a brand new key.
If you lock your keys inside your vehicle, a locksmith could rekey it to make the lock work with a new key or the original lost one. This is a cheaper option than replacing the lock and can save time and money.
Make plans to avoid this problem. If you know that you're likely to lock your keys in your car, you should leave a spare key with a trusted friend or family member. This will give you a chance to get back inside without having to wait for a locksmith or pay costly roadside assistance charges. You can also subscribe for an emergency roadside service or an automaker app that offers help on demand. They will send technicians within a half hour to your area, and you'll be able to return to your destination.
Broken Keys
It can be frustrating when a key breaks in the lock. Although there are a few DIY techniques you can try however, the most effective course of action is always to call in locksmith. They have the tools and experience to remove a broken lock without causing further damage.
A key can snap into the lock due to the fact that it was not properly maintained. Inserting and removing keys repeatedly could weaken the structure of the key and wear out its ridges. In addition, using too much force when turning or unlocking could cause the key to break. Use a silicone-based grease on the lock's cylinder to prevent this in the future.
When dealing with a damaged or broken key, it's important to remain calm. The key will only get stuck if you pull on it. It is also possible to push the damaged part further into the lock if you yank. Instead try to gently jiggle the keys or twist it both ways. If the key is snagged, apply a little additional lubricant.
In cases where the key is buried in the lock cylinder, you can use needle-nose pliers to reach inside and grab the broken piece. This method requires some finesse and patience however it can be successful if tools are sized appropriately for this task. Avoid using tweezers for this purpose, as they can easily be too large and cause the damaged section of the key deeper into the lock.
Another DIY trick is to make use of a paperclip to grasp the broken part of the key and leverage it out of the lock. This method also works better with lubricant, and is simpler to do if the damaged portion of the key extends far enough to grasp using pliers.
If neither of these methods is working, you could consider a pair of specialized key extractors. These are shaped as a small drill and can be placed inside the cylinder of a lock where they will take the key fragments and begin pulling them out. This process is best done in a safe neighborhood with a trusted neighbor!