Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
A broken or lost spare car key can be stressful particularly if the replacement requires that you pay an expensive fee to your local car dealership. The good news is that you can save money by having your new spare car keys cut and programmed at an Ace store close to you.
What is Key Cutting?
Key cutting is a skill that provides security, convenience and peace of mind for car owners. It involves using advanced machinery to precisely cut keys to ensure that they work without a hitch and won't harm the ignition. This is essential in the event that you require an extra key or have lost keys. This process takes only minutes and could help you avoid having to call a professional locksmith in the case of an emergency lockout.
The key-cutting process varies according to the complexity of the lock and the type of key that you require. For example, transponder keys and smart keys utilize encryption to prevent the unauthorized reuse of the car's keys. These keys also require specific configuration and programming in order to work properly. When you are re-keying locks or you attempt to create an entirely new key from an old one that does not have the proper code, the duplication process can be more complicated.
Many people duplicate their keys to keep a spare. This is especially the case when they move to a new home or want to gift copies of their keys to friends and family. However, it's important to know the difference between key duplication and cutting before you attempt this at home. It's crucial that you make use of the right equipment and the proper methods for each to ensure a quality key is created.
Getting your keys copied can be a hassle, and when done improperly it could result in flawed copies that won't fit correctly or even open the lock. Bring your keys that are working to a shop that offers key duplication services to ensure that your keys are duplicated correctly. This will allow an associate to match it with the blank key and trace its contours onto a precise key cutting machine in the store.
Another advantage of bringing your keys to a key duplication shop is that you avoid the high costs associated with buying keys to replace from a dealer. Additionally you can also take advantage of discounts offered by stores that allow customers to bring their keys for duplication.
Keys Types
There are a variety of keys on the market, each with a unique balance of security and convenience. Cylinder keys, for example are a simple lock that is widely employed in commercial and residential settings, while mortice keys are a staple of traditional structures and provide more security features. Tubular keys are cylindrical shafts that fit into tubular pin tumbler locks, which are typically used to secure sheds and bicycles.
Modern keys can be programmed to work with specific vehicle systems in addition to the various cutting techniques. This is typically performed at the dealership or by a licensed locksmith who has access correct key programming equipment.
For example some of the most popular modern car keys are designed like remotes and are not required to be turned in order to start the car. Smart keys have an embedded microchip which is programmed for the specific model and make of car they work with. They can only be programmed and cut by locksmiths who are member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
It is always advisable to have a spare key for your car, especially if you live in an area with high crime rates. The reason for this is that car theft has become a relatively common and easy criminal activity. If you have lost your keys, it's best to get them duplicated as soon as possible so you can return to the road and not waste your time searching for your car.
A basic key can be duplicated using an ordinary machine. However, keys with a more complex design require special equipment and a technician with the necessary knowledge to perform the task. For example, keys cut with lasers are characterized by long valleys that replace typical ridges found on older keys and are difficult to duplicate due to their intricate shape.
Transponder keys are a type of key which requires a professional for cutting. They are a standard feature on newer vehicles and can only be duplicated by a certified locksmith who has the proper programming equipment. They have a microchip that must be programmed into the vehicle in order to make it start.
Tools Used
You'll require a variety of tools to cut keys professionally. These include the key duplication machine which cuts and duplicates regular keys as also automotive keys. Also, you'll need a key decoder, which provides measurements for Kwikset, Weslock, Schlage master keys as well as Schlage. You'll also need a lockpick set and tools with a long reach in order to unlock cars. These tools are designed to be used to manipulate the pins in a lock cylinder, allowing you to unlock the door without breaking the lock.
There are a myriad of key cutting machines. auto key cutting g28carkeys is designed specifically for a particular kind of lock. A manual key cutter requires you to manually move the key around the tracing and cutter wheels which is ideal for beginners or mobile locksmiths who are only required to cut a few keys at one time. Manual key machines such as the Silca Flash and JMA Nomad are both good options.
A machine that can do all the work. However it's more expensive than a manual machine. The Silca 040 machine that is automated is the best one currently available.
Another essential tool is a vice, which is required to hold the key when it's being shaped. A large vise is ideal for a car, whereas smaller ones are sufficient for vans. A good vise will last for a long period of time, and it will be much easier to keep your keys in place when filing.
Other tools you could consider for your toolbox include padlock shims that can be used to take apart padlocks by placing an incredibly thin piece of metal around the shackle. You'll need a lockpick set and a tube pick to manipulate the pins in the keyhole of the locking device. These tools are especially useful when picking locks that are difficult to open using the standard key.
A key extractor for broken keys allows you to remove pieces of a damaged key that has gotten 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 guarantees security, convenience and peace of mind for the car owner. This procedure requires specialized tools and software. This process should be performed by an accredited locksmith or a car dealership. A key cut incorrectly could damage the lock, which could result in cost-plus costs for replacement or repair. Additionally, a cut that isn't done correctly could not fit properly and may cause further problems.
It is important that you select a professional who will cut your spare key with a high-quality knife and ensure the correct positioning of the chip. Cheaper blades often result in poor quality cuts, which can cause the key to wear more quickly and possibly break inside the lock cylinder. It is also important to ensure that the key is made from the correct kind of metal. Some online sites sell sidewinder chips of poor quality, which can damage the machine used to cut keys or cause your keys to malfunction.
After the key cutting, in the event that your car is equipped with a transponder key or smart key it must be programmed. These types of keys utilize encryption to ensure that only the right key is able to start the car. If you opt to use a home key duplication service, they may not be capable of programming the new key properly.
It is recommended to have an additional car key for these kinds of vehicles, to ensure that you do not lose the original key or lock it in the vehicle. This is especially important in the event that you share your car with other family members. A spare key allows each family member to have their own lanyard, which prevents accidental lockouts or theft of your car key.
It's also a good idea to review your basic warranty or insurance coverage, as well as roadside assistance coverage. Based on the coverage, this kind of service can save you money on key duplicate and replacement. Having a spare key will also help you if your car battery dies or you run out of gas. This will allow you to get back to the road quickly without waiting on a tow-truck or being stranded outside in the cold.