Auto locksmiths provide professional services to clients who have locked themselves inside their car or have lost their car keys. Auto locksmiths use a variety of tools to unlock a vehicle without damaging it.
Following are 6 different ways locksmiths can get vehicles open:
1. Reprogramming
Nowadays, most vehicles have keyless entry systems. So in order to use keys to unlock them, they need to be programmed first. A good locksmith who is familiar with keyless entry systems knows how to reprogram the lock and unlock the car without damaging it.
2. Immobilizer Re-flashing
Some vehicles are equipped with a theft deterrent, known as immobilizer. An immobilizer prevents a car from starting when a thief tries to steal it. However, in some cases the immobilizer becomes defective and prevents the vehicle from starting even if you use the key. Auto locksmiths are highly efficient at fixing this particular problem and getting your car moving in no time.
3. Broken Key Extractor
Sometimes a key gets broken within the lock of the car. In this situation, locksmiths use a broken key extractor to remove the broken key or key parts from the vehicle’s lock and then duplicate the key and unlock the car. Locksmiths also use a door handle clip removal tool that helps in taking out the retainer clip that locks a vehicle’s door handle to the door.
4. Key Analyzer and Mechanical Code Key Cutter
Modern and technological vehicles feature keyless entry. If such a car gets locked, auto locksmiths use a key analyzer or a VATS passkey decoder to determine the electrical resistance values of the car. They then use a mechanical code key cutter to make a precise key without having the original to duplicate.
5. Slim Jim
Every auto locksmith uses a slim jim as a primary tool. When a car is not unlocking, a locksmith inserts slim jim between the glass and weather stripping of the car’s window in order to unlock it without the key. While the process looks pretty simple, the use of a slim jim requires a lot of knowledge, training, and experience because improper use of this tool can damage or disable the airbags or electrical system of the vehicle.
6. J and L Tools
For unlocking older cars that have switched lock and unlock buttons near the inner panel of the doors, auto locksmiths use a J tool. They reach the inside of the car by passing the J tool through the top of the window. It is then manipulated to release the car door by lifting the unlock button. The L tool has a design which is quite similar to the J tool. The main difference is that the L tool has a bit of a different shape that is suitable to work with some specific car models and designs.
In conclusion, auto locksmiths have the experience and tools to unlock any vehicle without damaging it. So if you ever find yourself to be in an emergency situation with an inoperable lock or key, it is recommended to call on the help of an auto locksmith who will be able to help you in a reliable, quick, and cost-effective way.
A1 Lock & Safe
With A1 Lock & Safe, you are guaranteed experienced and friendly Durham locksmiths. We want you back in your vehicle as much as you do, which is why we handle these cases with ease. If you lock yourself out all over again, we will prop your door back open for you and still for a reasonable price. Now you know the dos and don’ts of vehicle lock outs, you know to rely on none other than the best Chapel Hill and Durham Locksmiths around—A1 Lock & Safe!