Automotive Locksmithing Tools Flashcards

A 'jiggler key' or 'rocker key' set is used in automotive locksmithing to:

Answer: Apply oscillating motion to manipulate lock tumblers into the open position without the original key

Jiggler keys (rocker keys) are inserted into a lock and rocked or jiggled to manipulate the internal tumblers or wafers into alignment, opening the lock through feel and movement rather than a precisely cut key.

A 'slim jim' or 'long reach tool' is primarily designed for:

Answer: Manipulating automotive door linkages or lock buttons through the window seal to unlock a door without the key

A slim jim is a thin, flat tool inserted between the window glass and weatherstripping to reach inside the door and manipulate lock rods or buttons, unlocking the vehicle without entry through the lock cylinder.

What is the purpose of a 'tension wrench' (also called a tension bar or turning tool) when picking an automotive lock?

Answer: It applies rotational pressure to the plug while pick tools manipulate the pins or wafers

A tension wrench applies light rotational pressure to the lock plug so that when each pin or wafer is manipulated to the shear line, it sets in place, ultimately allowing the plug to rotate and open the lock.

A 'pick gun' or 'snap gun' opens pin tumbler locks by:

Answer: Rapidly vibrating the bottom pins upward so they momentarily align at the shear line while tension is applied

A pick gun uses a rapidly moving blade to snap the bottom pins upward; with tension applied, some pins momentarily reach the shear line simultaneously, allowing the plug to rotate.

When performing an automotive lockout, an 'air wedge' is used to:

Answer: Create a small gap between the door and frame to allow a long reach tool to be inserted safely

An air wedge is inflated between the door and frame to create a controlled gap, protecting the vehicle's weatherstripping while providing enough space to insert long reach tools without damage.

Which tool is used to decode the cuts of an existing automotive key while it remains in the lock or by measuring it directly?

Answer: Key decoder

A key decoder (or lock decoder) is inserted into the keyway or used to measure a key blade to determine the exact depth of each cut, allowing the locksmith to originate a key by code without the original key.

A 'warded pick' is specifically designed for use on:

Answer: Simple warded locks that use obstructions (wards) in the keyway to limit key entry

Warded picks are shaped to bypass the wards (obstructions) in warded locks, which are relatively simple locks with limited security found on some older vehicles and cabinets.