CAL - Certified Automotive Locksmith Automotive Locksmithing Tools Questions and Answers

Question 1

An automotive locksmith needs to originate a high-security key with internal and external cuts, often referred to as a "laser-cut" key. Which type of machine is specifically designed for this task?

Accepted Answer

A code-cutting milling machine

Answer

A standard edge-cut duplicator

Answer

A Tibbe key cutter

Answer

A flat steel key punch

Question 2

A locksmith is working on an older Toyota in an 'All Keys Lost' situation. The standard OBDII key programmer is unable to reset the immobilizer. What set of specialized tools will the locksmith most likely need to proceed by reading the immobilizer data directly?

Accepted Answer

A soldering iron, EEPROM reader/programmer, and a computer

Answer

An air wedge, long reach tool, and mechanical code grabber

Answer

A key impressioning file, scope, and blank keys

Answer

A Lishi pick, key cutter, and OBDII programmer

Question 3

What is the primary application of a set of automotive try-out keys for a professional locksmith?

Accepted Answer

To non-destructively unlock older vehicle locks by systematically testing pre-cut keys.

Answer

To program new transponder chips without an electronic tool.

Answer

To test the electronic functionality of a cloned remote head key.

Answer

To rekey an entire vehicle's lock set to a new bitting.

Question 4

A locksmith needs to service a stuck ignition lock cylinder on a Ford. To remove the cylinder without damage, it must be turned to the 'ON' position, but the key is lost. Which tool is specifically designed to help manipulate the wafers and turn the plug for removal?

Accepted Answer

A dedicated ignition removal tool or wafer pick

Answer

An EEPROM clamp

Answer

A high-frequency key cloner

Answer

A sidewinder Lishi pick

Question 5

In an 'All Keys Lost' situation for a modern vehicle, what is the primary advantage of using a Lishi 2-in-1 tool on the door lock over a traditional lockout kit (air wedge and long reach tool)?

Accepted Answer

It allows the locksmith to both open the lock and decode the key bitting simultaneously.

Answer

It is significantly faster for gaining entry on all vehicle models.

Answer

It bypasses the vehicle's electronic security system entirely.

Answer

It avoids any potential contact with side-impact airbags and door wiring.

Question 6

In the context of automotive locksmithing, what is the primary function of software databases such as InstaCode or Genericode?

Accepted Answer

To provide key cutting codes, bitting information, and key blank cross-references.

Answer

To clone the radio frequency of remote key fobs.

Answer

To program transponder chips directly via a USB interface.

Answer

To flash new firmware onto a vehicle's immobilizer module.

An automotive locksmith needs to originate a high-security key with internal and external cuts, often referred to as a "laser-cut" key.Which type of machine is specifically designed for this task?

An automotive locksmith needs to originate a high-security key with internal and external cuts, often referred to as a "laser-cut" key.
Which type of machine is specifically designed for this task?