Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
It can be a stressful experience to lose or break keys, especially when you are required to pay a hefty price at your local car dealership. The good part is that you can save money by having your new spare car keys cut and programmed at an Ace store near you.
What is Key Cutting?
Key cutting is an art that provides security, convenience and peace of mind for car owners. It requires sophisticated machinery to precisely cut keys so that they work smoothly and do not damage the ignition. This is essential if you need a spare or lost keys. It takes only a few minutes to complete the process and it will take away the hassle of having call a locksmith with a lockout or broken key.
The procedure for cutting keys varies according to the degree of complexity of the lock as well as the type of key that you require. For example, transponder keys and smart keys utilize encryption to prevent unauthorized re-use of the car's keys. They also require specific configuration and programming in order to work correctly. The key duplication and cutting process can be more complicated when it comes to re-keying locks or when you're trying to cut the new key from an existing one that doesn't have the correct code.
Many people decide to duplicate their keys and keep a spare particularly when they move into a new home or want to distribute copies to family members and friends members. Before you decide to try this at home, it's important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. To ensure that you get an excellent key, it's important to use the correct machine and the right techniques.
It can be a hassle to duplicate your keys. If done incorrectly, they may not fit or even open the lock. A good way to ensure your keys are correctly copied is to bring your existing working key to a store which offers key duplication. A staff member will then match it with the blank key and trace its contours using an exact key-cutting machine at site.
Another benefit of bringing your own keys to a key duplication shop is that it allows you to avoid the high prices associated with buying an additional key from a dealer. In addition you can also take advantage of discounts that are provided by shops that allow customers to bring their own keys for duplication.
Keys Types
There are a variety of keys available. Each provides a distinct combination of security and convenience. For example Cylinder keys are widely used both in commercial and residential settings. Mortice keys however, are more secure and are typically used in traditional buildings. Similar to tubular keys, tubular keys feature an elongated shaft that fits into the tubular pin tumbler lock, often used to secure sheds and bikes.
Modern keys can be programmed to work with specific vehicles, as well as the various cutting techniques. This is typically done by a locksmith or an authorized dealer that has the proper key programming equipment.
For instance some of the most popular modern car keys are designed like remotes, and are not required to be turned to start the vehicle. These keys are known as smart keys and they have a microchip inside them that is coded to the specific brand and model of car that they will work with. These keys can only be programmed and cut by locksmiths who are a member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
It's always recommended to have a spare key for your car, especially if you live in an area with high crime rates. This is due to the fact that stealing cars is now a regular and fairly easy criminal activity. If you have lost your keys, you should get them replaced as quickly as you can so that you be back on the road and not waste time searching for your car.
While a simple key can be cut using an ordinary machine, more sophisticated keys require specialized tools and a trained technician to duplicate them correctly. Keys cut with lasers for instance, feature a pattern that consists of long valleys rather than the ridges common to older keys. They are also more difficult to duplicate because of their complex shape.
Transponder keys are a different kind of key that requires a professional to cut. These are a common feature in newer vehicles and can only be duplicated by a licensed locksmith with the right programming equipment. They contain a microchip which must be programmed into the vehicle to allow it to start.
Tools Used
You'll need several tools to cut keys professionally. These include the key duplication machine that cuts and duplicates standard keys as well as automotive keys. You'll require a key decoder that provides measurements for Kwiksets, Weslocks and Schlages as well as master keys. You'll also require an lockpick set as well as an instrument with a long reach to unlock cars. These tools are designed to be used to alter the pins inside the lock cylinder, allowing you to open the door without breaking the lock.
There are many different kinds of key cutting machines and each one is best for a particular type of lock. A manual key cutter will require you to manually move the key across the cutter and tracing wheels, which is fine for those who are just beginning or who are only required to cut a couple of keys at each time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are great options for a key machine that is manual.
A crucial machine that is automatic does everything for you. However, it is more expensive than a manual model. The Silca 040 is the most effective automatic machine that is currently available.
Another essential tool is a vice which is required to hold the key when it's being filed into shape. A large vise would work well for a car and smaller vises will work for the van. car key cutter of good quality will last for a long period of time, and it's easier to keep your key in place while filing.
Other tools you could consider for your toolbox include a padlock shim that is used to take apart padlocks by placing a thin piece of metal around the shackle. You'll require a lockpick set as well as an instrument to manipulate the pins that are inside the keyhole of the locking device. These tools are particularly useful when picking locks that are difficult to open using a regular key.
A broken key extractor allows you to remove a piece of a broken key that has gotten stuck in the keyhole. This is a fantastic tool that can be found in the basic set of car opening kits or purchase separately.
Safety
It's much more than simple metal shaping. It's an art form that provides security, convenience and peace of mind for the owner. This process involves specialized machinery and software. This procedure should be handled by an accredited locksmith or a car dealership. A key cut incorrectly could damage the lock and cause additional costs for repair or replacement. In addition, a cut that isn't done correctly may not fit properly and may cause further problems.
When choosing a professional to cut your spare car key it is crucial to select one that employs a top-quality blade and ensures the proper placement of the chip. Blades that are less expensive can result in less-than-quality cuts that can result in the key wearing out faster and possibly even break inside the lock. Also, it is important to make sure that the key is made from the correct type of metal. Some online sites sell low-quality sidewinder chips, which may harm the key cutting machine or cause the key to malfunction.
If your vehicle is equipped with a transponder or smart key, it will have to be programmed following the key cutting process. These keys are encrypted to ensure that only the correct key can start the car. If you opt to utilize a home key duplication service, they may not be in a position to program the new key correctly.
For these types of cars it is recommended that you have an extra key in order to avoid losing the original key or locking it inside the car. This is particularly true in the event that you share your car with your family members. A spare key enables everyone in the family their own lanyard, which helps prevent accidental lockouts or theft of your car key.
It's an excellent idea to check your basic warranty, insurance, or roadside assistance coverage. Based on the coverage, this kind of service could save you money on key duplication and replacement. A spare key could be helpful if you run out of fuel or your car's battery goes out of. This will allow you to return to the road quickly, without having to wait for a tow truck, or be trapped in the frigid winter.