Dodge Caravan Key Make

As a locksmith technician sometimes you learn the hard way how to do things. Originating a key for a vehicle can be a simple process or complicated depending on the year make and model of the vehicle. Most vehicles have a code stamped on the door lock cylinder or ignition. However, taking apart a door lock or and ignition cylinder is not always a good option, especially if the customer does not have a key at all which on some models is required in order to pull the ignition out.

I remember few years ago I got a call from a customer to make a key for his 1996 Dodge Caravan. Back then I didn't do many of these types of vans, but I did have some experience working with the Chrysler version which is very similar. I knew it might take me some time to do the job, but since I didn't have another job on me at that day, I decided to take it anyway.

When I got to the customer's home where the vehicle was parked, I carefully reviewed my options and tried to figure out what would be the best way to tackle it in order to get the job done as quick as possible without damaging anything. I knew that the only way I could have made a key for this vehicle was to get the stamped code from either the door lock or the ignition. My other option was impressioning, but as far as I remembered, the tumblers inside the lock in these models are so delicate that they can actually get damaged in the process.

Since the ignition switch on this type of vehicle required a key in order to pull it out, I had to go with my other option getting the code from the door lock. As I started taking the door panel off I ran into some stubborn studs that did not want to come out of place. I struggled with it for about 10 minutes before giving up and started looking for another way.

In the process of finding a different way, I called another Reno locksmith friend of mine for advice. He mentioned something about using an EEZ-Reader tool. I was not familiar with that particular tool at that time, so he actually offered to come and help me. Once my locksmith technician friend got to the customer's home, it took him exactly 5 minutes to get the proper cuts to make a new key with the EEZ-Reader tool and all of that without leaving any damage to the lock.