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 must pay a high fee at your local car dealership. The good news is that you can save money by having your new spare car keys cut and programmed at an Ace store near you.
What is Key Cutting?
It's an art that offers security, comfort and peace of mind to car owners. It involves the use of sophisticated machinery to precisely cut keys to ensure that they work without a hitch and won't damage the ignition. This is essential when you need an extra key or have lost keys. This process takes just a few minutes and can help you avoid having to call a professional locksmith in the event of a lockout.
The process of cutting keys varies depending on the type of key you need and the level of sophistication of the locks. Keys with transponders and intelligent ones, for example, use encryption to prevent the unauthorized reuse of the car key. In addition, these keys require a specific programming and configuration to function properly. The key cutting and duplication process can be more complicated when it comes to re-keying locks or if you're trying to cut the new key from an existing one that doesn't have the correct code.
Many people duplicate their keys to have a spare. This is particularly relevant when they move into a new house or want to give copies of their keys to relatives and friends. Before you try this at your home, you need to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. It's crucial that you employ the right machine and the proper methods for each to ensure a top quality key is created.
The process of copying your keys is a pain and when done wrong, it could lead to incorrect copies that do not fit properly or will not even be able to open the lock. Bring your current working keys to a retailer that offers key duplication services to ensure that your keys are duplicated correctly. An associate can then match it to the key blank and trace its contours with an exact key-cutting machine at site.
Another benefit of bringing your keys to a duplication shop is that you can save money with buying a replacement key from a dealer. You can also benefit from the discounts offered by shops who allow customers to bring their keys for duplication.
Keys Types
There are many types of keys available. Each type has its own unique combination of convenience and security. Cylinder keys, for instance, are simple and widely employed in both residential and commercial settings Mortice keys are an essential part 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 bicycles and sheds.
Modern keys can be programmed to work with specific vehicle systems in addition to the various cutting techniques. This is typically performed at the dealership or by a locksmith licensed who has access to appropriate equipment for key programming.
For example, some of the most well-known modern car keys are designed like remotes and are not required to be turned to start the vehicle. Smart keys have a microchip that is coded for the specific car model and make they will use. They can only be programmed and cut by locksmiths who are a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
It is advisable to always carry an extra key, particularly if your area has a high crime rate. This is because car theft is a frequent and relatively easy criminal enterprise. If you do lose your car keys it's important to have them duplicated quickly to get back on the road and not waste time looking for your vehicle.
While a standard key can be cut using an ordinary machine, more complex keys require special tools and a skilled technician to properly duplicate them. For example, keys cut with lasers are characterized by long valleys that replace the typical ridges that are found on older keys and are harder to duplicate due to their complex shape.
Another kind of key that requires a professional to cut is the transponder key. These keys are commonly found in newer vehicles and can only be duplicated by a locksmith using the appropriate equipment for programming. They have a microchip that must be programmed into the vehicle to enable it to start.
Tools Used
You'll need several tools to cut keys professionally. These include the key duplication machine that cuts and duplicates standard keys as well as keys for cars. You'll require an instrument to decode keys that can provide measurements for Weslocks, Kwiksets and Schlages, as well as master keys. Also, you'll need locks and picks as well as an extended reach tool for unlocking cars. These tools are used to manipulate pins in the lock cylinder, allowing the door to be opened without breaking the lock.
There are a variety of key cutting equipment, and each one is best for a particular type of lock. A manual key cutter requires the user to manually move the key through the cutter wheels and tracing which is ideal for locksmiths who are new or who need to cut a couple of keys at one time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are good choices for a key machine that is manual.
A key machine that is automatic will do everything for you but it's a little more expensive than a manual machine. The Silca 040 automated machine is the best currently available.
Another important 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, whereas smaller ones are adequate for a van. A sturdy, high-quality vise will last a long time and will make it easier to keep the key in place while filing.
You may also want to consider adding a padlock shank to your toolbox. This is used to take padlocks apart using the thin metal piece around the shackle. You'll also need an lock pick set as well as the tubular pick, which can be used to alter the pins in the key hole of a lock. These tools are particularly helpful for picking locks that are difficult to open using a regular key.
A broken key extractor allows you to remove an unusable piece of the key that is jammed in the key hole. This is a great tool that is available in basic car opening sets or purchase separately.
Safety
It's much more than simple metal shaping. It's an art form that provides security, comfort and peace of mind to the owner. This process involves specialized machinery and software. It should be done by an experienced locksmith or car dealership. If you cut the key incorrectly, it could cause damage to the lock, leading to cost-plus expenses for replacement or repair. A poorly cut key could also cause future problems because it may not fit properly.
When you are 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 correct positioning of the chip. Cheaper blades often result in poor quality cuts, causing the key to wear out faster and may even break inside the lock cylinder. It is also important to ensure that the key is made of the correct type of metal. Some websites sell sidewinder chip of low quality, which could harm the machine that cuts keys or cause your keys to malfunction.
After cutting the key, should your vehicle have a transponder key or smart key it will require programming. The keys are encrypted so that only the right key can be used to start the car. If you are using a service that duplicates keys at home, they may be unable to program the key correctly.
It is recommended that you have an extra car key for these types of vehicles, so you do not lose the original key or put it in the car. This is especially true if you share your car with family members. Having a spare car key will allow each family member to have a separate key chain or lanyard which will prevent accidental lockouts and theft of the key.
Examine your warranty coverage for basic warranties, insurance or roadside assistance. Depending on the coverage, this type of service could save you money on key duplication and replacement. A spare key will also be helpful if your car battery fails or you are running out of gas. This will enable you to get back on the road quickly without waiting for a tow truck or getting trapped in the frigid winter.