Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
It can be a stressful experience to lose or break a spare key, particularly when you must pay a high fee at your local car dealership. The good news is that you could save money by having your spare keys cut and programmed at an Ace store close to you.
What is Key Cutting?
Key cutting is an art that guarantees security, ease of use and peace of mind for car owners. It requires the use of advanced technology for accurate shaping of keys to ensure that they function smoothly and don't cause damage to the ignition. This is a must-have service if you have lost your keys or require to have a new key made. This process takes just a few minutes and can save you from needing to call a professional locksmith in the event of a lockout.
The process of key cutting is different based on the type of key you require and the sophistication of the locks. Keys with transponders and intelligent ones are for instance, which use encryption to prevent unauthorized reuse of the car key. These keys also require special configuration and programming to work correctly. Key cutting and duplication process is also more complex when you're trying to re-key locks or trying to cut the new key from an existing one that doesn't have the correct code.
Many people duplicate their keys to keep a spare. This is particularly relevant when they move into a new house or want to gift copies of the keys to friends and family. However, it's essential to understand the difference between cutting and key duplication before you attempt this at home. It's crucial that you use the correct machine and the right techniques for each of these to ensure a quality key is created.
The process of copying your keys is a pain and if it is done wrong it could result in flawed copies that won't fit correctly or even allow you to open the lock. A good way to ensure your keys are correctly copied is to bring your existing working key to a shop 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 advantage of bringing your own keys to a duplication shop is that it allows you to avoid the high costs associated with buying an additional key from a dealership. Additionally getting a key cut near me can also take advantage of discounts that are provided by shops that allow customers to bring their keys for duplication.
Keys Types
There are a variety of keys on the market, each with an individual blend of security and convenience. Cylinder keys, for example, are simple and widely employed in commercial and residential settings Mortice keys are a staple of traditional buildings and offer more security features. Tubular keys are cylindrical shafts that can be inserted into tubular pin tumbler locks which are typically used to secure sheds and bicycles.
In addition to a variety of cutting methods modern keys can also be programmed to work with specific car systems. This is usually done by a locksmith, or an authorized dealer that has the proper key programming equipment.
Some of the most popular car keys are now designed as remotes, and do not require turning to start the car. These are called smart keys, and they come with a microchip in them that is programmed to the specific brand and model of car that they will work with. They can be programmed and cut at a qualified locksmith who is also a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).
It is recommended to always have an extra key, especially in areas that have an extremely high rate of crime. This is due to the fact that stealing cars is now a regular and relatively simple criminal enterprise. If you have lost your keys, it's best to duplicate them as soon as possible so you can be back on the road and not waste your time looking for your vehicle.
While a standard key can be cut by a standard machine, more advanced keys require special tools and a skilled technician to duplicate them correctly. For instance, laser cut keys feature a pattern of long valleys that replace usual ridges on older keys and are difficult to duplicate due to their complex shape.
Another kind of key that requires the expertise of a professional to cut is the transponder key. These keys are common in newer vehicles and can only by duplicated by a locksmith with the appropriate equipment for programming. They are equipped with a microchip that must be programmed into the vehicle in order to make it start.
Tools used
If you want to perform key cutting professionally, you'll need a variety of tools. They include key duplication machines, that cuts and duplicates standard keys, as well as keys for cars. You'll also require an encoder for keys, which gives measurements for Kwikset, Weslock, Schlage master keys and Schlage. Also, you'll need an lock pick set as well as a long reach tool for unlocking vehicles. These tools are specially designed and used to move the pins within a lock cylinder, allowing you to open the door without breaking the lock.
There are many different key cutting machines. Each is designed specifically for a particular type of lock. A manual key cutter will require the user to manually move the key around the tracing and cutter wheels and is suitable for those who are just beginning or who are only required to cut a few keys at a time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are excellent choices for a manual key cutter.
A crucial machine that does everything for you. However it's more expensive than a manual one. The Silca 040 is the top automated machine available today.
A vice is a different essential tool. It is used to hold the key when it is being formed. A large vise is ideal for a car, whereas a smaller one is sufficient for vans. A high-quality, sturdy vise will last for a long time and will aid in keeping the key in place when filing.
You may also want to consider adding a padlock shank your toolbox. This is used to disassemble padlocks using the thin metal piece around the shackle. You'll require a lockpick set and a tube pick to manipulate the pins that are inside the keyhole of the locking device. These tools are especially helpful for picking locks that are difficult to open with a standard key.
A broken key extractor will allow you to extract the broken piece of the key that has become stuck in the key hole. This is a great tool that can be found in basic car opening sets or buy separately.
Safety
It's more than a simple metal shaping. It's an art form that provides security, comfort and peace of mind for the owner. This process requires specialized equipment and software. It should be done by a reliable locksmith or car dealership. A cut that is not done correctly could damage the lock and result in cost-plus repairs or replacement. In addition, a cut that isn't done correctly might not fit correctly and could cause problems in the future.
When deciding on a professional to cut your spare car key it is crucial to choose one who utilizes a high-quality blade that ensures the proper placement of the chip. Blades that are less expensive can result in poor quality cuts, causing the key to wear faster and may even break inside the lock cylinder. Also, it is important to ensure that the key is made of the correct type of metal. Some online sites sell sidewinder chips that are of low quality, which could harm the machine that cuts keys or cause keys to malfunction.
After cutting the key if your car has a transponder key or smart key, it will require programming. These types of keys utilize encryption to ensure that only the right key is able to start the vehicle. If you are using an online service that duplicates keys at home, they might not be able to program the key correctly.
It is recommended to have an extra car key for these kinds of vehicles, so you do not lose the original key or put it in the car. This is particularly true if your car is shared with other family members. Having a spare car key will allow each family member to have a separate key chain or lanyard that will stop lockouts from happening accidentally and theft of the key.
Review your basic warranty coverage and roadside assistance. Based on the coverage, this kind of service can save you money on key duplication and replacement. A spare key can be useful if you run out of fuel or your car's battery goes out of. This will allow you to return to the road quickly and without waiting on a tow-truck or being stranded outside in the cold.