Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
A broken or lost spare car key can be a stressful experience particularly if the replacement needs you to pay an exorbitant amount to your local car dealership. You can save money if have the spare keys cut and programmed in an Ace store close to you.
What is Key Cutting?
It's an art form that provides security, convenience and peace of mind to car owners. It involves using advanced machinery to precisely cut keys to make sure they work smoothly and do not cause damage to the ignition. This service is essential when you lose your keys or need to have a replacement key made. The process takes only a few minutes and can help you avoid needing to call a professional locksmith in the case of an emergency lockout.
The process of cutting keys differs based on the kind of key you require as well as the level of sophistication of the locks. Keys that are transponder or intelligent are for instance, which use encryption to prevent the unauthorized reuse of the car key. These keys also require specific configuration and programming to function properly. The key cutting and duplication process is also more difficult when it comes to re-keying locks or trying to cut the new key from an existing one that doesn't have the correct code in it.
Many people choose to duplicate their keys and keep a spare, especially when they're moving into a new residence or want to give copies to family members and friends members. However, it's essential to know the difference between key duplication and cutting before you decide to try this at home. To ensure you get the best quality key, you must use the correct machine and the correct techniques.
The process of copying your keys can be a hassle, and when done wrong, it could lead to flawed copies that won't fit properly or will not 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. A staff member will then match it with the key blank and trace its contours with an exact key-cutting machine at the spot.
Another advantage of bringing your own keys to a duplication shop is that it allows you to avoid the high costs associated with purchasing keys to replace from a dealership. In addition to this you can also take advantage of discounts that are provided by shops that allow customers to bring in their own keys to be duplicated.
Keys Types
There are a variety of keys available on the market, each with a unique balance of convenience and protection. Cylinder keys for instance, are simple and widely utilized in both residential and commercial settings and mortice keys are an essential part of traditional structures and come with 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 keys of today can be programmed to work with specific vehicle systems. This is usually performed at the dealership or by a locksmith licensed who has access proper equipment for programming keys.
For example, many of the most sought-after modern car keys are designed as remotes and do not need to be turned to start the vehicle. Smart keys contain an embedded microchip that has been programmed for the specific car model and make they will work with. These keys can be programmed and cut at an experienced locksmith who is also a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).
It's always recommended to keep a spare car key, especially if you live in a region with high crime rates. The reason is that car theft has become a relatively common and easy criminal activity. However, if you lose your car keys it's important to duplicate them as quickly as possible so that you can return to the road and not waste time looking for your vehicle.
A standard key can be duplicated using a standard machine. However, keys with a more complex design require special equipment and a technician with the necessary skills to accomplish this. For instance, laser cut keys are characterized by long valleys which replace the typical ridges that are found on older keys. They are difficult to duplicate due to their complicated shape.
Another type of key that requires an expert to cut is the transponder key. These are a common feature in newer vehicles and can only be duplicated by a licensed locksmith with the right programming equipment. They have a microchip that must be programmed into the vehicle in order to make it start.
Tools used
You'll need several tools to cut keys professionally. They include key duplication machines, that cuts and duplicates standard keys as well as keys for cars. You'll also need a key decoder that gives measurements for Kwikset, Weslock, Schlage master keys and Schlage. In addition, you'll require an lock pick set as well as a long reach tool for unlocking cars. These tools are specially designed and used to move the pins within the lock cylinder to allow you to unlock the door without damaging the lock.
There are a myriad of key cutting machines. Each one is designed for a particular kind of lock. A manual key cutter requires the user to manually move the key through the tracing and cutter wheels, which is fine for beginners or mobile locksmiths who are only required to cut a few keys at a time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are great options for a manual key machine.
A crucial machine that does all the work for you. However, it is more expensive than a manual model. The Silca 040 machine that is automated is the best currently available.
Another important tool is a vice that is used to hold the key while it's being shaped. A large vise will work well for a car, while smaller vises are suitable for vans. A quality vise will last for a long period of time, and it will be easier to keep your keys in place when filing.
Other tools you could think about adding to your toolbox are padlock shims, which is used to take apart padlocks by inserting an incredibly thin piece of metal around the shackle. You'll also need locks with picks and a tubular pick, which can be used to alter the pins that are in the key hole of the lock. These tools are particularly helpful for picking locks that are difficult to open using a standard key.
A broken key extractor allows you to remove the broken piece of the key that has become stuck in the key hole. This is a great tool to have, and it can be found in basic kit for opening cars or buy it on its own.
Safety
It's much more than simple metal shaping. It's an art form that offers security, comfort and peace of mind to the owner. This process requires special equipment and software. It should be carried out by a reliable locksmith or car dealership. A wrongly cut key could damage the lock and cause cost-plus repairs or replacement. A badly cut key can also cause future problems as it may not fit properly.
It is essential to select a professional to cut your spare key with a high-quality knife and ensure proper placement of chip. Blades that are less expensive can result in lower quality cuts, which can result in the key wearing out faster and possibly even break inside the lock. It is also important to ensure that the key is made of the correct metal type. Some online sites sell low-quality sidewinder chips, which may harm the cutting machine used to cut keys or cause your key to fail.
If your vehicle has a transponder or smart key, it will have to be programmed after the cutting process. These types of keys utilize encryption to ensure that only the correct key is allowed to start the car. If you are using a service that duplicates keys at home, you might not be able to program the key correctly.
It is recommended that you have an extra car key for these kinds of vehicles, so that you don't lose the key you have used to secure it inside the vehicle. This is particularly true if you share your car with your family members. A spare key allows everyone in the family their own lanyard, which helps prevent accidental lockouts, or theft of the car key.
Check 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 also be helpful if your car battery goes out or you have run out of gas. This will enable you to get back to the road quickly, without having to wait on a tow-truck or being trapped outside in the cold.