Locksmith Modern Equipment Availability: What’s Needed?
Vehicles today have various car security systems – from keyless entry, smart ignition, and so much more. Everything is done electronically or through a computer rather than a physical key.
So, your locksmith should have some modern solutions to these problems, not the same old ones! Let’s check out some contemporary car locksmith tools that a reputable locksmith service provider must have!

Tools List
- Laser Key Cutter and Key Duplicator
- 2-in-1 Automotive Pick and Decoder Tools
- Quick Max Long Reach Tool
- Air Wedge (Ballistic Nylon)
- Slim Jim Set
Tools List
- Auto Jiggler Set
- Button Grabber Strip Tool
- Auto Wedge Set (Plastic)
- Broken Key Extractors
- Universal Gas Cap Tryout Key

Locksmith Modern Equipment Availability: Which Tools Should They Have?
A modern car locksmith works with tiny and sophisticated tools. Smart fobs, anti-theft systems, and laser-cut keys have replaced the simple locks and metal keys. Keeping up with technology means getting the right tools for the job. Here are a few essential tools that you need to ask whether your locksmith has them or not:
Laser Key Cutter and Key Duplicator
You cannot simply cut a modern car key. A laser key cutter is needed for transponders and high-security keys.
A laser key cutter is mandatory for high-security and transponder keys. Multitasking machines such as the Miracle A9 and SEC9 can cut and duplicate multiple forms of keys for dimples and barrels. Whether copying or cutting, having these machines helps in saving space, time, and performing with precision.
2-in-1 Automotive Pick and Decoder Tools
These tools work like spell-binding wands on automotive locks. Each tool picks each lock and reads the correct depths for making a key. They are exceptionally efficient with their complex wafer locks on newer cars straight out of the factory. An all-in-one tool that accomplishes two things is handy during roadside emergencies.
Quick Max Long Reach Tool
From inside a car door, if the locksmith wants to hit a door unlock button and do it from a narrow gap, you can easily do it using the Quick Max long reach tool without damaging the paint or trim. This tool comes pre-bent, meaning no twisting is required to make it fit. The non-scratch coating, as the name indicates, will not scratch the car, and the handle has extra tip storage.
Air Wedge (Ballistic Nylon)
We no longer use rubber wedging systems, as they can stretch and cause damage. Now, we have ballistic nylon air wedges that are tougher and much more precise. These wedges assist in creating space between a car’s window and frame without causing harm to the vehicle. Simply slide one in, pump air into it, and the space created is sufficient enough to access your desired tools. Some even have stiffeners that enable insertion without bending or slipping.
Slim Jim Set
Slim Jims remain one of the most popular lockout tools. They slide between the window and the weather stripping and gain access to the lock from the inside. These jims are modified into different shapes, such as clamp-on, rounded, and flat, as vehicles are not all manufactured the same way. However, with modern anti-theft systems, caution is advised. A correctly positioned Slim Jim will quickly and effectively unlock any vehicle.
Auto Jiggler Set
These keys jiggle into place inside the lock; simple yet clever. Jigglers are sculpted to fit car locks and function by gently shifting the wafers until the lock rotates. They’re quite useful for older cars, especially when a client’s key is lost and no data is available.
Button Grabber Strip Tool
This is a long, thin tool designed for grabbing the vertical locks. The locksmith can slide it down the window, hook the button, and pull vertically. Every time you’re able to see the lock but can’t reach it, this is the most useful option. It’s straightforward and works best on older button locks with threads that don’t go inside the door panel.
Auto Wedge Set (Plastic)
These wedge sets, which come in large and small sizes, are made from ABS plastic. This is an amazing door-opening strategy because they don’t scratch the car. The locksmiths place them between the rubber window mold in a way that creates a small gap. Then, a long, flexible tool is placed. It looks simple, but most affordable sets tend to snap.
Broken Key Extractors
Keys break sometimes, and that is a harsh reality. Extractors help remove a broken key from the door or ignition without damaging the lock. A good set includes different sizes of hooks, spirals, and scissors.
Universal Gas Cap Tryout Key
Losing the keys to gas caps is more common than you might assume. A universal tryout key allows the locksmith to unlock them without drilling or cap replacement. It is a small tool, but incredibly helpful, especially during service calls when customers cannot use their fuel tanks.