How to Start a Car Without Keys: 8 Different Methods Explored

Introduction

Losing your car keys can be an incredibly frustrating experience. It can leave you feeling helpless and stranded, unable to get where you need to go. Fortunately, there are several ways to start a car without keys, allowing you to get back on the road quickly and easily.

In this article, we will explore eight different methods for starting a car without keys. We’ll look at the materials needed for each method, as well as the step-by-step instructions for getting the job done. Let’s get started!

Using a Screwdriver to Start the Car

This method is perhaps the simplest way to start a car without keys. All you need is a flathead screwdriver and a few minutes of time.

Required Materials

• Flathead screwdriver
• Pliers (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Locate the ignition cylinder under the steering wheel.
2. Insert the flathead screwdriver into the ignition cylinder and turn it counterclockwise.
3. Once the cylinder has turned far enough, use the pliers to pull the cylinder out.
4. With the cylinder removed, locate the two exposed wires.
5. Touch the ends of the two wires together.
6. The car should start.

Jump Starting the Car with Cables

If your car won’t start due to a dead battery, one option is to use jumper cables to jump start the car.

Required Materials

• Jumper cables
• Another vehicle with a working battery

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Park the two vehicles close to each other.
2. Connect one end of the jumper cables to the positive terminal on the dead battery.
3. Connect the other end of the jumper cables to the positive terminal on the working battery.
4. Connect one end of the jumper cables to the negative terminal on the working battery.
5. Connect the other end of the jumper cables to an unpainted metal surface on the vehicle with the dead battery.
6. Start the vehicle with the working battery and let it run for several minutes.
7. Try starting the vehicle with the dead battery.

Using a Slim Jim to Unlock and Start the Car

A slim jim is a tool used by locksmiths to unlock car doors without a key. It can also be used to start the car.

Required Materials

• Slim jim

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Insert the slim jim between the window and door frame and slide it down until it reaches the lock.
2. Gently twist the slim jim to unlock the door.
3. Once the door is unlocked, open it and climb inside.
4. Locate the ignition cylinder and insert the slim jim into it.
5. Turn the slim jim counterclockwise to start the car.

Using a Push-Button Starter

Some newer cars come equipped with push-button starters, which allow you to start the car without a key. All you need is the key fob that came with the car.

Required Materials

• Key fob

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Locate the push-button starter on the dashboard.
2. Press the button with the key fob in your pocket or nearby.
3. The car should start.

Starting the Car with a Spare Key

If you have a spare key for your car, this is the quickest and easiest way to start the car without keys.

Required Materials

• Spare key

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Insert the spare key into the ignition cylinder.
2. Turn the key clockwise to start the car.

Hot Wiring the Car

Hot wiring a car is a bit more complicated than the other methods but can be done if you have the right tools and know-how.

Required Materials

• Wire cutters
• Screwdriver
• Insulated wire

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Locate the ignition cylinder and remove it with a screwdriver.
2. Locate the two exposed wires leading from the ignition cylinder.
3. Cut a length of insulated wire and strip both ends.
4. Connect one end of the wire to the positive terminal of the battery.
5. Connect the other end of the wire to the positive wire leading from the ignition cylinder.
6. Touch the negative wire leading from the ignition cylinder to the negative terminal of the battery.
7. The car should start.

Using a Coded Keypad to Start the Car

Many modern cars come equipped with keyless entry systems, which allow you to start the car using a code entered on a keypad.

Required Materials

• Code provided by the manufacturer

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Locate the keypad on the dashboard or near the door handle.
2. Enter the code provided by the manufacturer.
3. The car should start.

Conclusion

Starting a car without keys can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right tools and knowledge, you can get your car up and running in no time.

We’ve explored eight different methods for starting a car without keys: using a screwdriver, jump starting with cables, using a slim jim, using a push-button starter, starting with a spare key, hot wiring the car, and using a coded keypad. Each method has its own set of requirements and steps, so be sure to read through carefully before attempting any of them.