How to Unlock Your Car Without a Locksmith
Few things are more frustrating than locking your keys in your car. This is often the case when you are in a hurry.
A locksmith is a great option to help. The process is more complicated than just cutting a new key and programming it into your car. For starters, you have to be able to prove the ownership of your car to be able to do this.
Transponder Keys
Many modern car manufacturers have integrated transponder keys into their key systems in order to guard against theft. They are beneficial because they prevent anyone from copying your keys without the use of specialized tools. Keys also contain the capability of transmitting radio frequency signals to your immobilizer to ensure that only authorized keys can start your vehicle. However, it is essential to know if your vehicle uses a transponder keys or not, so that you can make the right decision. You can check this by contacting a professional automotive locksmith and asking them about the year model, model, and make of your car.
Transponder keys comprise a microchip with an unique serial number that authenticates duplicate and original keys. It also transmits low level radio signals which are activated only when the key is placed close to the dashboard, or in the ignition to start the vehicle. The signal isn't transmitted when the key is in a different position and cannot be picked up by scanners or radio transmitters.
It's important to know that a transponder key can only be duplicated by a licensed auto locksmith or your car dealer. If auto locksmith services try to duplicate the key yourself the immobilizer might be damaged and not work. Additionally, trying to start your car with an untransponderable key may lead to problems and permanent damage.
However, this doesn't mean that your car is less secure than a non-transponder car since car thieves are recognized for their ability to circumvent even the most sophisticated security systems. In fact, most car thieves are now highly trained and equipped with the modern technology to ensure they can rob a vehicle, regardless of whether or not it has a transponder keys.
Lost Keys
They are light and small, making them easy to lose. They can also snap off in locks due to natural wear or when they get caught on something unexpectedly. This could make it difficult to start the vehicle and you may have to contact a professional to remove the key.
Fortunately, locksmiths can usually unlock your car without issue, and will usually perform the task at a lower cost than you think. The majority of auto locksmiths will take the key from the lock for less than $20. This is a lot less expensive than replacing the entire lock.
They can also create an entirely new key for you, even if don't have the original to hand. This process can be more time-consuming because they have to modify the system of the car with specialized equipment. You'll have to provide your VIN or key identification number. This can be found in your manual or by contact the manufacturer.
If you're prone losing items, you may need to designate a specific space for your keys, such as an open kitchen drawer or coat pocket. So, you won't be worried about a lost key, and you'll have a simple way to track your belongings.
It's also a good idea to carry a smartphone with a GPS app which can assist you in finding the way back to home. This is particularly helpful when you're at risk of getting lost, and could be helpful if you break down or run out of gas. Another option is to look into pay-per-mile insurance for cars from companies like Metromile which could save you a lot of money on your car insurance. You pay a fixed monthly fee plus a few pennies for each mile. This ensures that you are protected in the event of an emergency. Compare quotes from different providers to find the best price for you.
Locked out
It's one of the worst emotions in the world to come back to your vehicle after a long day to find your keys are locked inside. You might feel helpless, but there are ways to unlock your vehicle on your own before you call a locksmith. If you have an auto trunk lock or keypad, you can try them out first. If that doesn't work then you can try reaching through the windows or using a tool like a Slim Jim. You can also contact roadside assistance. Numerous automakers offer this service as do third-party companies. These services may take longer to arrive, but they are less expensive than an experienced locksmith.
If you need locksmith services, make sure to contact a locksmith who is MLA-approved. This means that they've been checked and vetted to ensure that they're competent for the job at hand. You can also read reviews on the internet to find out what people think about the company. If you can, try to go with an area-based locksmith, since they will be able to give you advice about improving the security of your home. They could, for instance, suggest installing locks that are harder to break or rekeying existing locks to function with a different key.
If you lock your keys in your vehicle, a locksmith can change the key to make the lock work with a new key or the lost one. This is a less expensive option than replacing the lock and will save you time and money.
The best way to avoid this problem is to plan ahead. If you know that you are likely to lock your keys inside your car, leave a spare key with a trusted family member or friend. You'll be able to get into your vehicle without waiting for a locksmith or paying high roadside assistance fees. Alternately, you can sign up for a roadside assistance program or automaker app that offers on-demand assistance. They will then send a technician to your location within a half hour or more, and you'll be on your way.
Broken Keys
It can be quite frustrating when a key is broken in the lock. There are a few DIY tricks that you can try, but the best thing to do is to call an experienced locksmith. They have the expertise and tools to take out a damaged lock without damaging it further.
A key may snap out of the lock if it is not maintained correctly. Repetitively inserting and removing a key can wear down the ridges and weaken the structure of the key. A key can break if you apply too much force to turn it or unlock it. Use a silicone-based grease on the lock's cylinder to prevent this from happening in the future.
The most important thing to remember when dealing with a damaged key is to stay calm and not panic. A quick jiggling of a broken key could cause it to become stuck more and also push the broken part further into the lock. Instead you can gently jiggle or twist the key in both directions. If the key is stuck, apply a bit of extra grease.
If the key is stuck within the lock cylinder, you can use needle nose pliers to grasp the broken part. This is a little difficult and requires patience, but if you select the right pliers for the job, it can be done. Avoid using tweezers to accomplish this function, as they can easily be too big and push the broken section of the key even further into the lock.
Another method to DIY is to use a paperclip to grip the broken part of the key, and then force it out of the lock. This method is also more effective with lubricant, and is simpler to perform if the broken part of the key sticks out enough to be able to grasp with pliers.
If none of these options work, you may want to try a pair of key extractors. They are designed to look like a small drill and can be put into the lock's cylinder in order to grasp the keys and begin pulling them out. This is best performed in a secure neighborhood with a neighbor you trust!