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How to Unlock Your Car Without a Locksmith
Few things are more frustrating than locking your keys in your car. This happens most often when you need to be.
A locksmith is a great option to help. The process is more complex than simply cutting a new key and programming it into your car. First of all, you need be able to prove the ownership of the vehicle to be able to do this.
Transponder Keys
To prevent theft In order to prevent theft, many car manufacturers have adopted transponder keys as a part of their key system. The benefit of these keys is that they stop people from copying your key without the aid of specialized tools. The keys also come with an electronic chip that transmits radio frequency signals to your immobilizer to ensure that only authorized keys can start your car. It is important to know if your car is compatible with transponders or not prior to making an important decision. You can check this by calling a professional automotive locksmith and asking them for the year model, model, and make of your car.
Transponder keys consist of one microchip with an unique serial number that authenticates original and duplicate keys. It also transmits low-level radio signals that only activate when the key is close to the dashboard or inserted into the ignition to start the car. The signal is not transmitted when the key is in another position and cannot be detected by scanners or radio transmitters.
If you own a transponder car key, it's important to note that it can only be copied by a licensed auto locksmith or your car dealer. If you try to duplicate the key on your own the immobilizer could be damaged and won't function. In addition, trying to start your vehicle using keys that are not transponder-compatible could lead to failure and permanent damage.
But, this doesn't mean that your car is safer than a non-transponder vehicle because car thieves have been found to be able to bypass even the most sophisticated security systems. In reality, the majority of car thieves nowadays are highly trained and equipped with the latest technology to ensure that they can rob a vehicle regardless of whether or not it has a transponder keys.
Lost Keys
Car keys are light and small and therefore are a very easy item to lose. They are also susceptible to snapping loose in locks, either due to wear and tear or when they're caught on something that's unexpectedly. This could cause difficulty to start your vehicle and you may have to contact a professional to get the key out.
Locksmiths can typically unlock your car with no issue, and they'll typically accomplish this for less than you might think. Most auto locksmiths can pull your keys out of a lock for about $20, which is considerably less than what you'd have to pay to replace the whole thing.
They can also create an entirely new key for you, even if don't have the original to hand. This process is more time-consuming due to the fact that they must program the system of the car with specialized equipment. You'll need to provide your VIN or key identification number. This information is available in your manual or by contact the manufacturer.
It's a good idea carry an extra car key in case you happen to lose it however if you're prone to losing things, you might think about making a dedicated space for your keys in a secure place like a drawer in the kitchen or a coat pocket. You don't have to be concerned about losing a key and you'll be able to keep the track of your belongings.
You should also have an iPhone with a GPS application to help you locate your home. This is particularly helpful if you're prone to getting lost, and could be helpful if you break down or run out of gas. Pay-per-mile insurance is another option. Companies like Metromile offer this type of insurance and can save you money. You pay a fixed monthly cost plus a few pennies for each mile. This ensures that you are covered in case of an emergency. You can compare quotes with other providers to see which one is best for you.
Locked out
It's one of the worst emotions in the world to return to your vehicle after a long day only to find your keys locked inside. You might feel helpless, but there are methods to unlock your car yourself before you call locksmith. If you have an auto trunk lock or keypad, you can try them out first. If those fail try opening the window or using a tool like a Slim Jim (provided you have an additional key in the vicinity). Another option is to call roadside assistance. Many automakers offer this service and so do third-party businesses. These services can take longer to arrive, but they may be less expensive than a locksmith.
If you do decide to call a locksmith, make sure they're MLA-approved. This means that they've been scrutinized and vetted to ensure they're able for the job at hand. You can also look up reviews online to see what people's opinions are about the company. It is best to pick a local locksmith if possible. They can provide suggestions on how to increase your home security. For instance, they may recommend installing locks that are less likely to break, or rekeying the existing ones to use a new key.
If you do end up locking your keys in your car, the locksmith will rekey the lock so it can work with a different key, or even with the original key that was lost. This is a cheaper option than replacing the lock and will save you time and money.
The best method to avoid this situation is to prepare for the future. If you know that you're likely to lock your keys in your vehicle, leave a spare key with a trusted family member. You can then get inside your car without having to wait for a locksmith, or paying high roadside assistance fees. You can also sign up for a roadside assistance program or automaker application that provides on-demand assistance. They will send an expert within the hour to your location, and you can return to your route.
Broken Keys
It can be a hassle when a key is broken in a lock. While there are a few DIY tricks you can attempt but the best course of action is always to call locksmith. They have the equipment and know-how to repair a damaged lock without damaging it further.
A key could be snapped inside the lock if it is not maintained correctly. Inserting and removing straight from the source can cause the key's structure to weaken and wear out its ridges. In addition, using too excessive force in unlocking or turning the key can cause a key to break. Using a silicone-based lubricant for the lock's cylinder could assist in preventing this from happening in the near future.
The most important thing to keep in mind when dealing with a broken key is to remain calm and not get overwhelmed. A quick jiggling of a broken key could cause it to become stuck more and also push the broken piece further into the lock. Instead you can gently jiggle or twist the key in both directions. If the key remains stuck, you can add a small amount of oil.
In the event that the key is stuck deeper in the lock cylinder, you can use needle-nose pliers to reach inside and grab the damaged piece. This technique requires some skill and patience but can be successful if tools are sized appropriately for this task. Do not use tweezers because they are too big and could push the damaged part of the key deeper into the lock.
A paperclip can be used to grasp the broken part of the key, and then force it out of the lock. This method works better when lubricant is used and is much easier to accomplish if the damaged part of the key sticks far enough to be able to be held by pliers.
If none of these methods work, you can always look into a set of specialized key extractors. They are designed like a small drill and can be put into the cylinder of the lock where they grasp the key fragment and begin to pull it out. Again, this process is best done in a safe neighborhood with a neighbor you trust!