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How do I start a car with scissors?

My purse was stolen and my keys were inside. I really need to get to work. I’ve read that you can start your car with scissors. How do I use a pair of scissors to start my car?

avatar
Eric Schad · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Sorry to hear about your purse! Hopefully, you can get your car keys back within a few days or so. If not, starting your car with a pair of scissors is possible with a bit of luck.
To start your car with scissors:
  • Put one blade into the ignition.
  • Move the scissors around in the ignition until you find the sweet spot.
  • Try to turn the ignition by twisting the scissors forward.
Note that starting your car with scissors can damage the ignition, aggravate your anti-theft device, and require you to replace the entire ignition cylinder. Do so at your own risk.
Alternatively, call a locksmith using your roadside assistance policy or
towing and labor coverage
.
If you don’t have this type of coverage, check out the roadside assistance program with
Jerry
.
The Jerry app’s leading roadside assistance connects you with their nationwide network of over 55,000 service providers. A membership includes services like towing, jumpstarts, key replacements, and lockouts and costs as little as $4.16 a month!
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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