U.S. Forensic can perform a post theft evaluation to determine a breach in the theft deterrent system or to determine the mechanical condition of the vehicle. As part of the post-theft evaluations, our engineers can perform a key analysis. Keys, transponder, anti-theft and engine immobilizer systems are analyzed to determine how a vehicle was stolen and whether a key was used or duplicated or if the engine immobilizer system was bypassed.
What is Key Analysis
We can identify if a key found in debris could have operated the vehicle and/or could have been used to start and drive the vehicle. We can also determine if the lock was picked and can examine the keys for wear and unique identifiers that may transfer to the wafers and tumblers of the lock.
In terms of wear and origins, U.S. Forensic can determine the amount of use of a key. Was it used every day, limited use, or never used? Was it a factory original, supplied by the original equipment manufacturer, or an after market duplicate? Was the key used as a guide to make a duplicate? Our experts can check the key code against the original manufacturer’s code to determine if a key could mechanically start or open a particular vehicle.
Depending on available evidence, we can also determine if a new key or worn key was used, and which key submitted for examination was used in the ignition.
Visit our Automotive and Accident Reconstruction services for more information on mechanical engineering services.
Featured Experts for this Forensic Service
| Name | Title |
|---|---|
| Gabriel Alexander, P.E., ACTAR | Professional Engineer / Accident Reconstructionist |
| Kevin Brown, M.E., ACTAR | Mechanical Engineer / Accident Reconstructionist |
| Brian Darr, P.E. | Professional Engineer / Tire Expert / Fire Investigator |
| Eric Fontenot, P.E. | Professional Engineer/Certified Welding Inspector |
| Jeremy Hoffpauir, P.E., ACTAR | Professional Engineer / Accident Reconstructionist |
| Matthew Ivory, P.E. | Professional Engineer / Accident Reconstructionist |
| Chris Owens, Sr. | Accident Reconstructionist |
| Barry Peak, BSME, ACTAR, ASE, CFEI, CVFI | Mechanical Engineer / Accident Reconstructionist / Fire Investigator |
| Jeffrey Stark, P.E., CFL | Professional Engineer / Certified Forensic Locksmith |
