Locksmiths excel in a broad range of services. From replacing locks you worry are compromised to creating duplicate keys, their ability to help drivers during frustrating circumstances spans far and wide. Yet, there’s one particularly challenging situation when you might turn to them for help: when you have a lock but no key.

Why Would You Need a Key Made From a Lock?

While rare, some people find themselves without a key for a lock they need to open. For instance, perhaps you purchased a vehicle and misplaced the only set of keys you had. It’s also possible to inherit a vehicle without knowing where the keys are.

How Can a Locksmith Create a Key From a Lock?

A lock contains pins of varying lengths that are moved into slots by the ridges of a key. A locksmith will need to mimic that same rise and fall when making a replacement key. There are a couple of ways they could do this without having a copy. In some cases, they may be able to “crack the code” by disassembling the lock.

In other cases, the locksmith may be able to create an impression of the lock. This step wouldn’t require disassembly; instead, a blank key would be inserted into the lock and gently turned. As a result, the blank would develop an impression of the pin structure, which acts as a roadmap for cutting a new key.

Whenever you’re locked out of your car, turn to One Call Lock & Key for timely service. Serving the greater Austin area in Texas, this locksmith offers 24/7 emergency mobile service to help during times of need. In addition to making keys from locks, they can also perform transponder key programming. See their full list of services online or call (512) 353-1112 to speak with a team member.