Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
It can be stressful to lose or break keys, especially when you are required to pay a hefty price at the local car dealership. You can save money if you have your spare keys cut and programmed at an Ace store close to you.
What is Key Cutting?
It's an art that provides security, convenience and peace of mind to car owners. It involves using advanced machinery for accurate shaping of keys to ensure that they work without a hitch and won't cause damage to the ignition. This is essential in the event that you require an extra key or lost keys. The process takes only a few moments and can save you from having to contact a locksmith professional in the situation of a lockout.
The process of cutting keys differs based on the kind of key you need and the level of sophistication of the locks. For instance transponder keys and smart keys employ encryption to prevent the unauthorized reuse of the car's key. In addition they require specific programming and configuration in order to work properly. When re-keying locks, or when you are trying to make a new key from an older one that doesn't have the proper code, the duplication process can be more difficult.
Many people duplicate their keys to keep a spare. This is especially relevant when they move into a new house or want to gift copies of the keys to relatives and friends. It's crucial to know the difference between cutting and key duplication before you decide to try this at home. It is essential to make use of the right equipment and the right techniques for each of these to ensure a top quality key is produced.
It can be difficult to duplicate your keys. If you do it incorrectly, they may not fit correctly or even open the lock. Bring your current keys to a shop that offers key duplication services to make sure that your keys are copied correctly. An associate will then match it to the blank key, and trace its contours with a precise key-cutting device on site.
You can save money for keys that are replacement at a dealership by taking your keys to a key-duplication shop. You can also take advantage of the discounts offered by shops which allow customers to bring their own keys in for duplication.
Keys Types
There are a variety of keys on the market, each offering an individual blend of convenience and protection. For instance Cylinder keys are widely utilized in both residential and commercial settings. Mortice keys are, however are more secure and are typically found in traditional structures. Tubular keys are cylindrical shafts that can be inserted into tubular pin tumbler locks which are commonly used to secure sheds and bicycles.
Modern keys can be programmed for specific car systems, in addition to the various cutting techniques. This is typically done by a locksmith, or an auto dealer with the appropriate key programming equipment.
Some of the most sought-after car keys today are shaped as remotes and don't require turning to start the car. They are referred to as smart keys. They have a microchip inside them that is programmed to the specific brand and model of car that they will be used with. They can only be programmed and cut by locksmiths who are member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
It's best to always have a spare key, especially in areas with an extremely high rate of crime. This is because stealing cars is now a regular and relatively simple criminal enterprise. However, if you've lost your car keys it's important to have them duplicated quickly to get back on the road and not waste time searching for your vehicle.
A basic key can be duplicated with an ordinary machine. However, keys with a more complex design require specialized equipment and technicians with the necessary knowledge to perform the task. For example, keys cut with lasers feature a pattern of long valleys which replace the typical ridges that are found on older keys and are harder to duplicate due to their intricate shape.
Transponder keys are another type of key which requires a professional to cut. They are a standard feature on newer vehicles and can only be duplicated by a licensed locksmith with the appropriate programming equipment. This is due to the fact that they have a microchip inside which needs to be programmed into the vehicle in order to begin.
Tools used
If you want to perform key cutting professionally, you'll require several tools. A key duplication machine is required to cut and duplicate standard keys, as well as automotive ones. You'll need an instrument to decode keys that can provide measurements for Weslocks, Kwiksets and Schlages, as well as master keys. Also, you'll need a lockpick set and an instrument with a long reach to unlock cars. These tools are used to alter pins within a lock cylinder to allow the door to be opened without damaging the lock.
There are several different types of key cutting machines and each one is best for a specific type of lock. A manual key cutter will require you to manually move the key across the cutter and tracing wheels which is ideal for locksmiths who are new or who only need to cut a couple of keys at each time. Manual key machines like the Silca Flash and JMA Nomad are both good options.
A key machine that can do all the work. However, it is more expensive than a manual machine. The Silca 040 is the most effective automatic machine that is currently available.
A vice is another important tool. It is used to hold the key while it is being shaped. A large vise is ideal for a car, whereas smaller ones are sufficient for vans. A high-quality, sturdy vise will last a long time and aid in keeping the key in place when filing.
You might also think about adding a padlock shank to your toolbox. It can be used to take padlocks apart using the thin metal piece around the shackle. You'll need a lockpick set and tube picks to move the pins in the keyhole of the locking device. These tools are especially helpful for picking locks that are difficult to open with a regular key, such as those found in cars or some commercial buildings.
A broken key extractor allows you to extract a piece of a broken key that has gotten stuck in the keyhole. This is an excellent tool to have and it is available in the basic kit for opening cars or buy it separately.
Safety
Car key cutting is more than just cutting a piece of metal, it's an art that ensures security, convenience, and peace of mind for the vehicle owner. This process involves specialized machinery and software. This procedure should be handled by an established car dealership or locksmith. A key cut incorrectly could damage the lock and cause cost-plus repairs or replacement. Additionally a key that is not cut correctly might not fit correctly and could cause problems in the future.
It is important that you select a professional to cut your spare key using high-end knives and ensure proper placement of the chip. Cheaper blades can lead to poor quality cuts, causing the key to wear out faster and possibly break inside the lock cylinder. It is also important to make sure that the key is made from the correct type of metal. Some websites sell cheap sidewinder chips that could harm the key cutting machine or cause your key to malfunction.
After cutting the key in the event that your car is equipped with an transponder key or smart key it will require programming. These keys use encryption so that only the correct key is able to start the car. If you choose to use a home key duplication service, they may not be able to program the new key correctly.
For these types of cars it is recommended you have an additional key in order to avoid losing the original or locking it inside the car. This is especially true if your car is shared with other family members. Having a spare car key allows everyone to have their own key chain or lanyard that will stop lockouts from happening accidentally and the theft of the key.
Review your warranty coverage basics, insurance or roadside assistance. This can save you money if covered. Having a spare key will also help you if your car battery goes out or you have run out of gas. This will enable you to get back to the road quickly and without waiting for a tow-truck or be stranded outside in the cold.