Moving into automotive locksmithing can be a very large step for many locksmiths. This part of locksmithing brings a new set of challenges. It requires special locksmith tools, a large supply of reference material, and locksmith supplies. Despite these challenges, many technicians see the potential in this area of business. With so many people, owning so many vehicles, there is no doubt a large market for servicing automotive locks. It is essential for locksmiths entering this area of expertise to decide which tools are necessary for business. Certain tools are more crucial than others for servicing locks, but having knowledge about what is available can make it much easier to decide what tools are “necessary” and which tools are not.

PICK TOOL

One such tool is a pick tool. This will be used on nearly any automotive lock, and may be a tool already in use from other areas of locksmith work. These tools will be used often in pushing in detents to remove ignitions or door locks, push out wafers, remove clips, and more. The 90 degree bend on the CLK Supplies multi pick tool is especially useful when removing ignitions with tight quarters. It can often be difficult to directly push on an ignition release detent button, but with the angle, a technician can save time by not having to remove as much of the shroud.

FACE CAP PLIERS

Another helpful tool in automotive locksmithing is theface cap removal tool. The ends of these pliers are specially shaped in order to pry off a face cap so the inner core can be serviced. Other tools may be able to do the same job, but few others will be as quick and concise. With some precision, the face cap on the lock can even be saved for reinstallation. This can be necessary on unpopular locks with no available aftermarket parts.

REFERENCE MATERIAL

The last tool we will discuss in this post is not what many would even consider a tool. Despite this, reference material is one of the best tools a locksmith can have. When learning about servicing automotive locks, reference material can be key in discovering the operations of a lock. Having this knowledge beforehand can add confidence in handling new jobs, save broken parts, and speed up the process. After a few of the same style locks are serviced, the knowledge is no longer read off of the pages of a book but becomes second nature. However, the first few times servicing a new style lock; a reference manual will come in very handy.

This list is simply a start for locksmiths entering this area of work. We will discuss tools more in depth on future posts. For a more in depth look at reference material, refer to our blog post at http://www.clksupplies.com/locksmith-blog/training-material/