Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
The loss or destruction of a spare car key can be very stressful particularly if the replacement will require an exorbitant amount to the local car dealership. You will save money if you have your new spare keys cut and programmed in an Ace store close to you.
What is Key Cutting?
Key cutting is a skill that ensures security, convenience and peace of mind for car owners. It involves the use of sophisticated equipment to precisely cut keys so that they operate without a hitch and do not harm the ignition. This service is vital in the event that you require an extra key or lost keys. It takes just some minutes to complete the process, and it could save you the hassle of having to contact a locksmith with a lockout or broken key.
The process of cutting keys varies depending on the type of key you require and the level of sophistication of the locks. For example transponder keys and smart keys employ encryption to prevent unauthorized re-use of the car's key. They also require a specific configuration and programming in order to function properly. Key duplication and cutting process is also more difficult when dealing with re-keying locks or trying to cut new keys from an existing one that doesn't have the correct code in it.
More Material choose to duplicate their keys and keep a spare, especially when they're moving to a new house or want to distribute copies to family and friends members. Before you attempt this at home, it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. It's crucial that you make use of the right equipment and the proper methods for each to ensure a top quality key is produced.
It can be a hassle to duplicate your keys. If you do it incorrectly, they may not fit or even be able to open the lock. Bring your current working keys to a shop that offers key duplication to ensure that your keys are copied correctly. An associate can then match it to the key blank and trace its contours using a precise key-cutting machine on the spot.
You can save money for an replacement key at a dealership by sending your keys to a key-duplication shop. You can also take advantage of the discounts offered by shops which allow customers to bring their keys to be duplicated.
Types of Keys
There are many different types of keys on the market, each with the perfect balance of convenience and security. For example Cylinder keys are commonly utilized in both residential and commercial settings. Mortice keys, on the other hand are more secure and are typically found in traditional buildings. Tubular keys are cylindrical shafts that can be inserted into tubular pin tumbler locks, which are commonly used to secure bicycles and sheds.
In addition to a range of cutting methods modern keys can also be programmed to be compatible with specific vehicle systems. This is usually performed at the dealership or by a licensed locksmith who has access to the correct key programming equipment.
Many of the most well-known car keys today are shaped as remotes, and do not require turning to start the car. These keys are known as smart keys and they have an embedded microchip that is programmed to the specific make and model of car that they will use. They can only be programmed and cut by locksmiths who are member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
It is recommended to always have an extra key, particularly in areas that have a high crime rate. The reason for this is that car theft has become a relatively frequent and easy crime. If you have lost your keys, it's best to get them duplicated as soon as possible so you can be back on the road and not waste time looking for your vehicle.
A standard key can be duplicated with a standard machine. However, advanced keys require special equipment and a technician with the necessary knowledge to perform the task. Laser cut keys for instance, have patterns that consist of long valleys, not the ridges that are typical of older keys. They are also more difficult to duplicate due to their complicated shape.
Transponder keys are another type of key that requires a professional for cutting. These keys are commonly found in modern cars and can only by duplicated by a locksmith using the appropriate programming equipment. They are equipped with a microchip that must be programmed into the vehicle in order to make it start.
Tools used
If you're looking to do key cutting professionally, you'll need several tools. A key duplication machine is needed to cut and duplicate standard keys as well as automotive keys. You'll also need a key decoder that offers measurements for Kwikset, Weslock, Schlage master keys as well as Schlage. Also, you'll need locks and picks as well as an extended reach tool for unlocking automobiles. These tools are designed to be used to manipulate the pins in the lock cylinder, allowing you to open the door without breaking the lock.
There are a variety of key cutting equipment, and each one is best for a specific type of lock. A manual key cutter will require the user to manually move the key across the tracing and cutter wheels which is ideal for beginners or mobile locksmiths who are only required to cut a few keys at each time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are great options for a manual key cutter.
An automatic key machine can do everything for you, however, it's more expensive than a manual one. The Silca 040 is the most effective automatic machine that is currently available.
A vice is an additional important tool. It is used to hold the key in place while it is being shaped. A large vise is ideal for a car, whereas smaller ones are sufficient for a van. A good vise will last for a long time and it will be much easier to keep your keys in place when filing.
Other tools you might think about adding to your toolbox are a padlock shim that can be used to take apart padlocks by putting an incredibly thin piece of metal around the shackle. You'll require a lockpick set and a tube pick to manipulate the pins inside the keyhole of the locking device. These tools are especially useful when picking locks that are difficult to open with the standard key.
A broken key extractor allows you to extract the broken piece of key that has become stuck in the keyhole. This is a great tool that can be found in basic car opening sets or buy separately.
Safety
Car key cutting is more than just shaping a piece of metal it's an art that provides security, ease of use, and peace of mind for the owner. This process involves specialized machinery and software. It should be done by an experienced locksmith or car dealership. A key cut incorrectly could cause damage to the lock and result in additional costs for repair or replacement. In addition, a poorly cut key could not fit properly and may cause further problems.
It is crucial to select a professional to cut your spare key using high-end knives and ensure the correct positioning of the chip. The blades that are cheaper can produce poorer quality cuts that cause the key to wear out faster and possibly even break inside the lock. It is also essential to make sure the key is made from the right type of metal. Some websites sell cheap sidewinder chips, which could cause damage to the key cutting machine or cause the key to fail.
If your vehicle has a transponder or smart key, it will have to be programmed after the cutting process. The keys are encrypted so that only the correct key can start the vehicle. If you use an online service that duplicates keys at home, you may be unable to program the key correctly.
It is recommended to carry an additional car key for these types of vehicles, to ensure that you don't lose the key you have used to lock it in the vehicle. This is especially important if your car is shared with other family members. A spare key enables everyone in the family their own lanyard, which prevents accidental lockouts, or theft of the car key.
It's also a good idea to check your basic warranty or insurance policy, or roadside assistance coverage. This service may save you money if it is covered. A spare key can also be helpful if your car battery dies or you run out of gas. This will enable you to get back on the road quickly and without waiting for a tow-truck or be stranded outside in the cold.