Lockpicking in The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion is a vital skill if you want to open chests, doors, and containers without having a key. Whether you’re trying to access hidden treasure or sneak into a restricted area, knowing how to pick locks in Oblivion will give you a serious advantage—especially for thieves, assassins, or curious adventurers. This guide explains everything you need to know about lockpicking in Elder Scrolls 4 Oblivion, including how it works, how to improve your chances, and how to use auto-attempt effectively.
How Lockpicking Works in Oblivion
Lockpicking in Oblivion uses an interactive minigame that relies on both timing and perception. Each lock consists of a number of tumblers—between 1 and 5—depending on the lock’s difficulty level:
- Very Easy: 1 tumbler
- Easy: 2 tumblers
- Average: 3 tumblers
- Hard: 4 tumblers
- Very Hard: 5 tumblers
Your job is to lift and set each tumbler without letting it fall.
When you enter the lockpicking screen, you’ll use your mouse (PC) or left thumbstick (console) to move the tumblers.
How to Pick Locks on PC
- Approach the locked container or door and press Spacebar to interact.
- Use your mouse to lift a tumbler by clicking upward.
- Watch for a slight pause at the top—click the left mouse button again to set it.
- If timed correctly, the tumbler stays in place.
- Repeat for all tumblers. If you miss, one or more tumblers will reset, and you could break your lockpick.
Patience and timing are key. Don’t rush it—observe the speed and pattern of the tumblers. Some rise quickly, others pause. Go for the pause at the top for the best success.
How to Pick Locks on Xbox and PlayStation
- Interact with the lock by pressing A (Xbox) or X (PlayStation).
- Use the left analog stick to push a tumbler up.
- Press the A/X button again to set the tumbler at the right moment.
- Work through each tumbler without triggering a reset.
You’ll get better at this with practice—early on, expect to burn through a few lockpicks until you get the timing right.
Using Auto-Attempt to Pick Locks in Oblivion
If the minigame isn’t your thing or you’re in a hurry, you can use the Auto-Attempt feature:
- While in the lockpicking screen, press Auto-Attempt (it’s an on-screen button or key).
- The game uses your current Security skill level to determine your success.
- The higher your Security skill, the better your chances.
Pro tip: Save your game before using Auto-Attempt on hard or very hard locks—failure may break all your picks.
How to Increase Lockpicking Success
- Level up your Security skill by practicing lockpicking or reading skill books.
- Join the Thieves Guild early for access to more lockpicks and stealth-related quests.
- Use Fortify Security potions, spells, or enchanted items to boost your skill temporarily.
- Complete the Nocturnal Daedric Quest to receive the Skeleton Key, an unbreakable lockpick that makes every lock a breeze.
Where to Find More Lockpicks in Oblivion
Running out of lockpicks? Here’s where to get more:
- Talk to Armand Christophe in the Thieves Guild for steady access.
- Buy from shady dealers like Shady Sam (north of the Imperial City).
- Loot them from dungeons, bandits, and dead enemies.
- Complete Thieves Guild quests to earn larger supplies.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to pick locks in Elder Scrolls 4 Oblivion is one of the most rewarding skills in the game. It opens up new paths, hidden treasure, and secret areas you wouldn’t otherwise reach. Whether you prefer the manual minigame or Auto-Attempt, improving your Security skill and carrying plenty of lockpicks will make you a true Cyrodiil locksmith in no time.