Automotive locksmiths are essential professionals who help vehicle owners in situations where they are locked out of their cars or facing issues with their keys or locks. A well-equipped locksmith needs to have the right tools to efficiently and effectively handle a variety of automotive lock-related problems. Here are the top 5 must-have tools that every automotive locksmith should have in their toolkit.
1. Lock Picks
Lock picks are fundamental tools for any locksmith, including those specializing in automotive locksmithing. These tools allow locksmiths to manipulate the pins inside a lock to unlock it without causing any damage. When it comes to automotive locksmithing, having a set of high-quality lock picks can make a significant difference in the speed and success rate of unlocking a car door or ignition.
Types of Lock Picks:
- Hook Picks
- Rake Picks
- Diamond Picks
- Half Diamond Picks
- Ball Picks
2. Key Extractor Tool
When a key breaks off inside a car lock or ignition, a key extractor tool is essential for removing the broken key pieces without causing damage to the lock. This tool allows locksmiths to safely extract the broken key and create a new key for the vehicle owner.
Key Extractor Tool Features:
- Hooked tip for grabbing broken key pieces
- Variety of sizes for different key types
- Durable material for long-term use
3. Slim Jim
A slim jim is a thin, flat metal tool that is used to unlock car doors without a key. This tool is especially useful for older vehicles that do not have modern electronic locking systems. A slim jim is inserted between the car window and the weather stripping to manipulate the door's locking mechanism and unlock the door.
Benefits of Using a Slim Jim:
- Quick and easy access to locked vehicles
- Does not require key duplication or cutting
- Compact and portable for on-the-go locksmithing
4. Key Cutting Machine
A key cutting machine is an essential tool for automotive locksmiths to create duplicate keys for their customers. Whether a vehicle owner has lost their keys or needs a spare key, a key cutting machine allows locksmiths to accurately cut keys to match the original key's specifications.
Key Cutting Machine Features:
- Computerized or manual operation
- Variety of key cutting templates for different key types
- Precision cutting for accurate key duplication
5. Lock Lubricant
Lock lubricant is a crucial tool for automotive locksmiths to maintain and improve the functionality of car locks and ignition cylinders. Applying lock lubricant helps prevent key sticking, rust, and wear on lock components, ensuring smooth operation for the vehicle owner.
Benefits of Using Lock Lubricant:
- Reduces friction between key and lock pins
- Prevents lock freeze in cold weather
- Prolongs the lifespan of lock mechanisms