Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
It can be stressful to lose or break keys, especially when you are required to pay a high fee at your local car dealership. The good news is that you could save money by having your new spare car keys cut and programmed at an Ace store near you.
What is Key Cutting?
he said 's an art that provides security, convenience and peace of mind to car owners. It requires the use of advanced technology for precise shaping keys to make sure they work smoothly and do not damage the ignition. This service is essential when you are locked out of your keys or you need to have a spare key made. This process takes just a few minutes and can help you avoid having to call a professional locksmith in the case of a lockout.
The process of cutting keys differs based on the kind of key you need and the sophistication of the locks. For instance, transponder keys and smart keys use encryption to prevent the unauthorized reuse of the car's keys. These keys also require special configuration and programming to function properly. When changing locks, or if you attempt to create a new key from an older one that doesn't have the proper code, the duplicate process can be more complicated.
Many people duplicate their keys to have an extra. This is particularly true when they are moving into a new residence or want to give copies of their keys to relatives and friends. Before you try this at your home, it's important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. It's crucial that you employ the right machine and the proper techniques for each of these to ensure a quality key is created.
It can be a hassle to duplicate your keys. If done incorrectly, they may not fit correctly or even be able to open the lock. Bring your current keys to a store offering key duplication to ensure that your keys are duplicated correctly. This allows an associate to match it up with the blank key and trace its contours on an exact key cutting machine onsite.
Another advantage of bringing your keys to a duplication shop is that it allows you to avoid the high costs associated with purchasing keys to replace from a dealer. You are also able to take advantage of the discounts offered by stores that permit customers to bring their own keys in for duplication.
Keys Types
There are many kinds of keys on the market. Each has its own unique combination of security and convenience. For instance Cylinder keys are widely employed in both commercial and residential settings. Mortice keys, on the other hand, are more secure and are commonly used in traditional buildings. Tubular keys are cylindrical shafts that fit into tubular pin tumbler locks which are commonly used to secure bicycles and sheds.
Modern keys can be programmed to work with specific vehicles, as well as the various cutting techniques. This is typically done at the dealership or by a locksmith licensed who has access to appropriate equipment for key programming.
For example some of the most popular modern car keys are designed like remotes and do not need to be turned to start the car. They are referred to as smart keys and they have a microchip in them that is programmed to the specific make and model of car that they will use. These keys can be cut and programmed at the hands of a locksmith who is also a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).
It's always recommended to have a spare car key, especially if you live in an area with high rates of crime. The reason for this is that car theft is now a common and easy crime. If you lose your keys, you need to get them replaced as quickly as you can, so that you get on the road again and not waste your time searching for your vehicle.
A standard key can be duplicated with a standard machine. However, advanced keys require specialized equipment and technicians with the proper knowledge to perform the task. For example, keys cut with lasers have a pattern of long valleys which replace the typical ridges found on older keys. They are difficult to duplicate due to their complicated shape.
Another kind of key that requires an expert to cut is the transponder key. They are a typical feature on newer vehicles and can only be duplicated by a certified locksmith with the right programming equipment. They are equipped with a microchip that must be programmed into the vehicle in order to enable it to start.
Tools used
If you're planning to perform key cutting professionally, you'll need several tools. A key duplication machine is needed to cut and duplicate standard keys and automotive keys. You'll require an instrument to decode keys that can provide measurements for Kwiksets, Weslocks, Schlages, and master keys. You'll also require a lockpick set and a tool that has a long reach to unlock cars. These tools are used to alter pins in the lock cylinder that allow you to open doors without breaking the lock.
There are many different key cutting machines for cutting keys. Each is designed specifically for a particular type of lock. Manual key cutters require you to manually move keys through the tracing wheel and cutter wheels. This is perfect for locksmiths who are new or mobile who only need to cut one or two keys at the same time. Manual key machines such as the Silca Flash and JMA Nomad are both good options.
An automatic key machine will do everything for you but it's a little more expensive than a manual one. The Silca 040 automated machine is the most effective one currently available.
A vice is an additional important tool. It is used to hold the key when it is being formed. A large vise would work well for a car, while smaller vises will work for vans. A sturdy, high-quality vise will last for a long time, and help keep the key in place when filing.
You could also consider adding a padlock shank to your toolbox. This is used to remove padlocks by putting a thin metal piece around the shackle. You'll require a lockpick set and a tube pick to manipulate the pins in the keyhole of the locking device. These tools are particularly useful when picking locks that are difficult to open with regular keys like those found in automobiles or commercial buildings.
Finally, a broken key extractor can allow you to extract a broken piece of the key that has become jammed in the key hole. This is a great tool that can be found in basic car opening sets or purchase separately.
Safety
Car key cutting is more than creating a metal piece, it's an art that guarantees security, convenience, and peace of mind for the car owner. This process requires special software and machinery. This procedure should be handled by a reputable car dealership or locksmith. Incorrectly cutting a key could damage the lock, resulting in additional costs for repair or replacement. Additionally, a cut that isn't done correctly might not fit correctly and may cause further problems.
It is important that you select a professional who will cut your spare key using high-end knives and ensure proper placement of chip. Cheaper blades can result in less-than-quality cuts that can cause the key to wear out faster and possibly even break inside the lock. It is also important to ensure that the key is made from the correct metal. Some online sites sell sidewinder chip of low quality, which could damage the machine that cuts keys or cause your keys to malfunction.
After the key cutting, if your car has a transponder key or smart key, it will require programming. These keys employ encryption to ensure only the correct key is used to start the car. If you utilize 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, to ensure that you do not lose the original key or secure it inside the vehicle. This is especially important if your car is shared with other family members. The possession of 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 the theft of the key.
It's an excellent idea to check your basic warranty, insurance, or roadside assistance coverage. This could save you money if it is covered. Having a spare key will also assist you in the event that your car battery dies or you run out of gas. This will enable you to get back on the road in a hurry without waiting for a tow truck, or be stranded in the cold.