Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
It can be stressful to lose or break keys, especially if you have to pay a high fee at your local car dealership. The good part is that you can save money by having your new spare keys cut and programmed at an Ace store close to you.
What is Key Cutting?
It's an art form that offers security, comfort and peace of mind to car owners. It involves the use of sophisticated machinery for precise shaping keys to make sure they function smoothly and don't damage the ignition. This service is crucial if you need an extra key or have lost keys. This process takes only a few moments and can help you avoid having to contact a locksmith professional in the event of a lockout.
The process of cutting keys differs based on the kind of key you require and the sophistication of the locks. Keys with transponders and intelligent ones for instance, employ encryption to prevent unauthorized reuse of the car key. These keys also require specific configuration and programming to function properly. Key cutting and duplication process is also more complex when it comes to re-keying locks or when you're trying to cut new keys from an existing one that doesn't have the right code in it.
Many people duplicate their keys to have a spare. This is particularly true when they are moving into a new residence or want to give copies of the keys to family and friends. It's crucial to know the distinction between key duplication and cutting before you decide to try this at home. To ensure you receive an excellent key, you must make use of the correct equipment and the correct techniques.
Copying your keys is a pain and if it is done wrong, it could lead to flawed copies that won't fit properly or will not even be able to open the lock. Bring your current working keys to a store offering key duplication to ensure that your keys are copied correctly. This allows an associate to match it up with the key blank and trace its contours onto the precise key cutting machine on site.
Another benefit of bringing your keys to a key duplication shop is that it allows you to save money with buying a replacement key from a dealer. You can also benefit from the discounts offered by stores that allow customers to bring in their own keys in for duplication.
Keys Types
There are many different types of keys available on the market, each offering the perfect balance of convenience and security. For instance Cylinder keys are widely utilized in both commercial and residential settings. Mortice keys however are more secure and are often used in traditional buildings. Tubular keys are cylindrical shafts that can be inserted into tubular pin tumbler locks which are commonly used to secure sheds and bicycles.
In addition to a range of cutting techniques keys of today can be programmed to work with specific vehicle systems. This is usually performed by a locksmith or an auto dealer with the appropriate key programming equipment.
For instance, some of the most popular modern car keys are designed like remotes, and do not need to be turned in order to start the vehicle. They are referred to as smart keys, and they come with an embedded microchip that is coded to the specific brand and model of car it will be used with. They can only be programmed and cut by locksmiths who are a member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
It is always advisable to keep a spare car key especially if you reside in an area with high crime rates. The reason for this is that car theft has become a relatively frequent and easy crime. If you do lose the keys to your car, it is important to duplicate them as quickly as possible so that you can get back on the road and not spend time searching for your vehicle.
While a simple key can be cut using a standard machine, more sophisticated keys require special tools and a trained technician to duplicate them correctly. Laser cut keys for instance, feature a pattern that consists of long valleys instead of the ridges typical to older keys. They are also more difficult to duplicate because of their complicated shape.
get keys cut of key that requires an expert to cut is the transponder key. They are found in modern cars and can only be duplicated by a locksmith who has the right programming equipment. They have a microchip that must be programmed into the vehicle in order to enable it to start.
Tools Used
You'll require several tools to cut keys professionally. This includes key duplication machines, which cuts and duplicates standard keys, as also automotive keys. You'll need a key decoder that provides measurements for Kwiksets, Weslocks and Schlages, as well as master keys. In addition, you'll require an lock pick set as well as long reach tools to unlock automobiles. These tools are used to manipulate pins in the lock cylinder that allow you to open a door without breaking the lock.
There are a myriad of key cutting machines. Each is designed specifically for a particular kind of lock. A manual key cutter requires the user to manually move the key across the tracing and cutter wheels which is ideal for those who are just beginning or who are only required to cut a couple of keys at one time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are excellent choices for a key machine that is manual.
A key machine that is automated will do everything for you however, it's more expensive than a manual device. The Silca 040 is the top automated machine available today.
Another essential tool is a vice that is used to hold the key in place when it's being filed into shape. A large vise is well for a car, while smaller vises are suitable for a van. A high-quality, sturdy vise will last a long time and will make it easier to keep the key in place when filing.
You might also consider adding a padlock shank to your toolbox. It is used to take padlocks apart using an aluminum piece that is wrapped around the shackle. You'll require a lockpick set and tube picks to move the pins in the keyhole of a locking device. These tools are particularly useful when picking locks that are difficult to open using a regular key.
A key extractor for broken keys allows you to extract a piece of a broken key that has become stuck in the keyhole. This is a useful tool to have, and it can be found in the basic kit for opening cars or buy it separately.
Safety
It's more than just a simple metal shaping. It's an art form that provides security and ease of mind to the owner. This process requires specialized equipment and software. This process should be performed by an accredited locksmith or car dealership. A key cut incorrectly could damage the lock and cause cost-plus repairs or replacement. In addition a key that is not cut correctly could not fit properly and cause future problems.
It is crucial to choose a professional who will cut your spare key with a high-quality knife and ensure proper placement of the chip. Cheaper blades often result in poor quality cuts, which can cause the key to wear out faster and possibly break inside the lock cylinder. Also, it is essential to ensure that the key is made of the correct metal. Some websites sell sidewinder chips that are of low quality, which can damage the machine used to cut keys or cause your keys to malfunction.
If your car has a transponder or smart key, it will need to be programmed after the cutting process. These keys are encrypted to ensure that only the correct key can be used to start the car. If you utilize an online service that duplicates keys at home, you might not be able to program the key correctly.
For these types of cars, it is recommended that you have an additional key to avoid losing the original or locking it inside the car. This is especially true when you share your car with family members. A spare car key allows each member to have a key chain or lanyard which will help prevent lockouts by accident and the theft of keys.
It's also a good idea to check your basic warranty, insurance, or roadside assistance coverage. Based on the coverage, this type of service could save you money on key duplicate and replacement. A spare key can also be helpful if you have run out of fuel or your vehicle's battery goes out of. This will let you return to the road quickly and without waiting for a tow truck or be stuck outside in the frigid winter.