Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
The loss or destruction of a spare car key can be very stressful especially if replacing it requires that you pay an exorbitant amount to your local dealership for cars. You can save money if you have your new spare keys cut and programmed in an Ace store close to you.
What is Key Cutting?
Key cutting is an art that provides security, convenience, and peace of mind for car owners. It involves using advanced machinery for accurate shaping of keys to ensure that they function smoothly and don't harm the ignition. This service is essential when you lose your keys or need to have a new key made. This process takes just minutes and could save you from having to contact a locksmith professional in the situation of an emergency lockout.
The process of key cutting varies depending on the type of key you require and the sophistication of the locks. For example transponder keys and smart keys utilize encryption to prevent unauthorized re-use of the car's key. In addition, these keys require a specific programming and configuration for proper operation. Key duplication and cutting process is also more complex when it comes to re-keying locks or if you're trying to cut a new key from an existing one that doesn't have the right code.
Many people opt to duplicate their keys and keep a spare, especially when they move into a new home or wish to gift copies to friends and family members. Before you decide to try this at your home, it is important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. To ensure you receive an excellent key, it's important to use the right machine and the correct methods.
Getting your keys copied can be a hassle, and if done improperly, it could lead to faulty copies that will not fit properly or will not even allow you to open the lock. One way to ensure your keys are correctly copied is to take your current working key to a shop that provides key duplication services. An associate can then match it with the key blank and trace its contours using a precise key-cutting machine on the spot.
locksmith key cutting of bringing your own keys to a duplication shop is that you can avoid the high costs associated with buying keys to replace from a dealership. Additionally you can also take advantage of discounts that are offered by stores that allow customers to bring their own keys to be duplicated.
Keys Types
There are a variety of keys available. Each provides a distinct combination of security and convenience. Cylinder keys, for instance are a simple lock that is widely employed in commercial and residential settings and mortice keys are an essential part of traditional structures and provide more security features. 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 methods keys of today can be programmed to work with specific vehicle systems. places to get keys cut near me is usually done by a locksmith or an auto dealer with the appropriate key programming equipment.
For example some of the most well-known modern car keys are shaped like remotes, and are not required to be turned to start the vehicle. They are referred to as smart keys, and they come with an embedded microchip that is coded to the specific make and model of car that they work with. These keys can be programmed and cut at an experienced locksmith who is also an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).
It's always recommended to keep a spare car key particularly if you live in an area that has high crime rates. The reason is because car theft is now a common and easy criminal activity. However, if you lose the keys to your car, it is important to duplicate them quickly to return to the road and not spend time searching for your vehicle.
While a simple key can be cut with an ordinary machine, more complex keys require specialized tools and a skilled technician to properly duplicate them. For instance, laser cut keys are characterized by long valleys which replace the usual ridges on older keys and are more difficult to duplicate due to their intricate shape.
Transponder keys are a type of key that requires a professional to cut. These keys are commonly found in newer vehicles and can only be duplicated by a locksmith with the appropriate programming equipment. They have a microchip that must be programmed into the vehicle in order to allow it to start.
Tools used
If you're planning to perform key cutting professionally, you'll require several tools. These include key duplication machines, which cuts and duplicates regular keys as well as automotive keys. You'll also require an encoder for keys, which provides measurements for Kwikset, Weslock, Schlage master keys and Schlage. In addition, you'll require locks and picks as well as an extended reach tool to unlock vehicles. These tools are used to manipulate pins in the lock cylinder that allow you to open a door without damaging the lock.
There are a variety of key cutting machines and each is best for a specific type of lock. Manual key cutters require you to manually move keys through the tracing wheels and cutter wheels. This is perfect for those who are just starting out or who only require cutting one or two keys at a given time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are good choices for a key machine that is manual.
An automatic key machine will do everything for you however, it's more expensive than a manual device. The Silca 040 is the top automatic machine that is currently available.
Another essential tool is a vice, that is used to hold the key in place when it's being shaped. A large vise is ideal for a car, while smaller ones are adequate for a van. A vise of good quality will last for a long time and it's easier to keep your key in place while filing.
Other tools you could consider for your toolbox include a padlock shim that is used to disassemble padlocks by placing an incredibly thin piece of metal around the shackle. You'll require a lockpick set and tube picks to move the pins that are inside the keyhole of the locking device. These tools are particularly useful for picking locks that are difficult to open with regular keys such as those that are that are found in cars and commercial buildings.
Finally, a broken key extractor can allow you to take out a broken piece of the key that has become jammed in the key hole. This is a useful tool to have, and you can find it in basic car opening kits or purchase it on its own.
Safety
It's more than just a simple metal shaping. It's an art form that gives security, comfort and peace of mind to the vehicle owner. This process requires specialized equipment and software. It should be done by a reliable locksmith or car dealership. Incorrectly cutting a key could damage the lock, leading to additional costs for repair or replacement. A badly cut key can also cause future problems because it may not fit properly.
When you are deciding on a professional to cut your car key spare it is essential to select one that employs a top-quality blade and ensures the correct positioning of the chip. Cheaper blades often result in poor quality cuts, which can cause the key to wear faster and possibly break inside the lock cylinder. Also, it is essential to make sure that the key is made from the correct metal. Some online sites sell sidewinder chips that are of low quality, which could damage the key-cutting machine 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 use encryption to ensure only the correct key is used to start the car. If you choose to make use of a home key duplicate service, they may not be capable of programming the new key properly.
It is recommended that you have an additional car key for these types of vehicles, to ensure that you don't lose the original or secure it inside the vehicle. This is especially true if your car is shared with other family members. A spare key enables every family member to have their personal lanyard. This prevents accidental lockouts, or theft of the car key.
Review your basic warranty coverage and roadside assistance. This can save you money if it is covered. A spare key can also be useful if you are running out of fuel or your vehicle's battery goes out of. This will allow you to return to the road quickly without waiting on a tow-truck or being stranded outside in the cold.