It’s a bit embarrassing to admit, but we’ve all been there: you were carrying groceries, got distracted by a phone call, and fumbled your keys so they fell somewhere you couldn’t see them. They might have landed underneath the car or rolled under the couch. But either way, you’re stuck without a key and no way to start your car. You can’t just call a tow truck and leave your car there all day, so what’s a person to do? Read on to find out how to start a car without a key.
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Why Do You Need To Know How To Start A Car Without A Key?
There are many reasons why you might need to start a car without a key. Maybe you lost your key, the key is stuck in the ignition or the battery is dead. Whatever the reason, it’s important to know how to start a car without a key. The process is actually quite simple. Just follow these steps:
- Find the car’s ignition
- Look for the small hole next to the steering wheel
- Stick a paper clip or a wire into the hole
- Turn the key to the “on” position
- Hold the paper clip or wire in the hole until the car starts
Roll Down a Hill
If you find yourself locked out of your car, one option is to roll it down a hill. Find a gentle hill and push your car to the top. Then, let it roll down the hill, and it will start. Make sure to hold onto the car and keep it from rolling too far.
How To Start A Car With A Screwdriver
If you find yourself locked out of your car, there is a way to start it without a key. All you need is a screwdriver. The screwdriver method works because most cars have a metal rod hidden in the steering column that can be accessed with the screwdriver. When the screwdriver is inserted into the rod and turned, it unlocks the ignition. This method should only be used as a last resort, as it can cause damage to the car.
How To Start A Car With A Paper Clip
If you’re ever in a bind and find yourself without your car key, don’t worry—there are a few ways to start it. One way is to use a paper clip.
- Straighten out the clip and use the small loop to insert it into the keyhole.
- Then, twist the paper clip around until it’s in the lock, and you should feel it click.
- Push down on the clutch and start your car as usual.
- It’s a good idea to have a backup plan, just in case. So, if you don’t have a paper clip on hand, you can also try using a strong magnet or a hanger.
- If all else fails, you can always call a tow truck.
How To Start A Car With A Hanger
If you lock your keys in the car, you can still start it–you just need a little help from a friend. All you need is a metal hanger. Here’s how it works:
- Straighten out the hanger and form a loop.
- Then, slip the loop over the car’s door handle.
- Pry the door open with the hanger and unlock it like you normally would.
- Once the door is open, you can start the car by pressing the starter button. Voilà!
Use a Pen to Hotwire
If you find yourself locked out of your car, there is hope. Using a pen, you can hotwire the car and start it without a key. The steps are simple:
- Locate the wires that run into the ignition.
- Use the pen to bridge the two wires together.
- Start the car by turning the ignition.
Be very careful when doing this and make sure that no one is near the car when you start it. You don’t want to be responsible for anyone getting hurt.
Use Your Smartphone to Find the Car’s Password
You can find your car’s password in several ways. One of the easiest is to use your smartphone. If you have the Car Wi-Fi app, open the app and select “My Car.” Hold your smartphone against the tag to open the Car Wi-Fi app if you have an NFC tag on your car. Once you’re in the app, select the “My Car” tab and display the password. You can also find your car’s password on the Car Wi-Fi website. Simply enter the car’s registration number, and the password will display.
Use the Stereo to Check for an Onboard Diagnostics System
Many cars today come with an onboard diagnostics (OBD) system. This system is designed to help mechanics diagnose and fix problems with the car. However, you can also use it to start the car. The OBD system is a computer that controls the car’s major functions. It monitors things like the engine, brakes and steering. By using the stereo to check for an OBD system, you can locate the port on the car that lets you start it without a key. Once you’ve found the port, all you need is a special tool to put into the port and start the car.
Different Ways To Start A Car Without A Key
Believe it or not, there are a few different ways to start a car without a key. One popular option is to use a keyless entry fob. This piece of hardware attaches to your key ring and emits a signal that unlocks the car. If you don’t have a keyless entry fob, you can also use a keyless remote starter. This device plugs into the car’s diagnostic port and signals the ignition, starting the engine.
Another option is to use a mechanical key override. This gadget attaches to the steering column and allows you to start the car by turning the key as you would normally. Whichever method you choose, please make sure you practice ahead of time, so you’re familiar with how it works.
The Bottom Line
As long as your car is within reach, there are plenty of ways to start a car without a key. The best way will depend on the model you have, but if you’re creative and persistent, the chances are good that you’ll be able to get back on the road in no time.