Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
It can be stressful to lose or break a spare key, particularly when you must pay a hefty price 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 close to you.
What is Key Cutting?
It's an art that offers security, comfort and peace of mind to car owners. It requires advanced machinery to accurately shape keys so that they operate smoothly and do not damage the ignition. This service is vital in the event that you require a spare or lost keys. It takes only a few minutes to complete the process and it will take away the hassle of having call a locksmith to help with a broken or locked key.
The procedure for cutting keys is dependent on the degree of complexity of the lock as well as the type of key that you require. Keys that are transponder or intelligent for instance, employ encryption to prevent unauthorized reuse of the car key. Additionally they require specific configuration and programming for proper operation. The key cutting and duplication process can be more complicated when dealing with re-keying locks or if you're trying to cut the new key from an existing one that doesn't have the right code.
Many people duplicate their keys in order to have a spare. This is particularly the case when they move to a new home or want to give copies of the key to family and friends. However, it's important to know the distinction between cutting and key duplication before you attempt this at home. To ensure you receive a high-quality key, you must make use of the correct equipment and the right techniques.
It can be a hassle to duplicate your keys. If it is done incorrectly they may not fit or even be able to open the lock. A great way to make sure that your keys are copied correctly is to bring your existing working key to a retailer which offers key duplication. This will allow the associate to match it up with the key blank and trace its contours onto a precise key cutting machine in the store.
Another benefit of bringing your own keys to a key duplication shop is that you avoid the high costs associated with buying an additional key from a dealer. In addition, you can take advantage of discounts that are offered by stores that permit customers to bring in their own keys to be duplicated.
Keys Types
There are many different types of keys available on the market, each providing the perfect balance of convenience and security. Cylinder keys for instance, are simple and widely employed in both residential and commercial settings and mortice keys are a staple of traditional structures and provide more security features. Similar to tubular keys, tubular keys feature a cylindrical shaft that can be fitted into the tubular pin tumbler lock commonly used for securing bicycles and sheds.
Modern keys can be programmed to work with specific vehicle systems in addition to the various cutting methods. This is typically performed at the dealership or by a locksmith licensed who has access to appropriate equipment for key programming.
Some of the most popular keys for cars today are designed as remotes, and do not require turning to start the car. These keys are known as smart keys, and they come with a microchip in them that is programmed to the specific make and model of car that they work with. They can be programmed and cut at the hands of a locksmith who is also a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).
It is recommended to always have an extra key, especially in areas that have high rates of crime. This is because car theft is now a regular and relatively simple criminal enterprise. However, if you've lost your car keys it's important to have them duplicated quickly to return to the road and not waste time trying to find your vehicle.
While a standard key can be cut by a standard machine, more complex keys require specialized tools and a trained technician to properly duplicate them. Keys made with lasers for instance, feature an intricate pattern of long valleys instead of the ridges that are typical of older keys. They are also more difficult to duplicate due to their complicated shape.
Transponder keys are another type of key that requires a professional to cut. These are a common feature of newer cars and can only be duplicated by a certified locksmith with the appropriate programming equipment. This is because they have a microchip in them which needs to be programmed into the vehicle in order for it to start.
Tools used
You'll need several tools to cut keys professionally. A key duplication machine is required to cut and duplicate standard keys, as well as automotive ones. You'll need a key decoder that gives measurements for Weslocks, Kwiksets and Schlages as well as master keys. You'll also require lockscrews and tools that has a long reach to unlock cars. These tools are used to alter pins within a lock cylinder to allow you to open doors without damaging the lock.
There are many different kinds of key cutting equipment, and each is best for a particular kind of lock. A manual key cutter will require the user to manually move the key around the cutter and tracing wheels which is ideal for beginners or mobile locksmiths who only need to cut a few keys at each time. Manual key machines, such as the Silca Flash and JMA Nomad are both good options.
A machine that can do everything for you. However, it is more expensive than a manual one. The Silca 040 automatic machine is the best currently available.
Another essential tool is a vice, that is used to hold the key while it's being filed into shape. A large vise is perfect for a car, while smaller ones are sufficient for a van. A good quality, beefy vise will last a long time and will help keep the key in place while filing.
Other tools to be considering for your toolbox include padlock shims that can be used to break up padlocks by placing a thin piece of metal around the shackle. You'll also need an lock pick set as well as a tubular pick. Both are used to move the pins inside the key hole of the lock. These tools are particularly useful for picking locks which are difficult to open using a standard key.
A key extractor for broken keys lets you remove the broken piece of key that is stuck in the keyhole. This is a great tool that can be found in basic car opening sets or purchase separately.
Safety
It's more than just a simple metal shaping. It's an art form that provides security, convenience and peace of mind for the owner. This procedure requires specialized software and machinery. It should be done by a reputable locksmith or car dealership. A cut that is not done correctly could cause damage to the lock and lead to additional costs for repair or replacement. A badly cut key can cause problems in the future because it may not fit properly.
It is important that you choose a professional who will cut your spare key using a high-quality knife and ensure the proper positioning of chip. The blades that are cheaper can produce less-than-quality cuts that can result in the key wearing out more quickly and could break inside the lock. It is also essential to ensure that the key is made from the correct type of metal. Some websites sell low-quality sidewinder chips, which may damage the cutting machine used to cut keys or cause your key to malfunction.
After the key cutting , in the event that your car is equipped with a transponder key or smart key, it must be programmed. These keys employ encryption to ensure only the correct key is used to start the vehicle. If you decide to utilize a home key duplication service, they may not be capable of programming the new key correctly.
It is recommended to have an additional car key for these types of vehicles, to ensure that you don't lose the original or put it in the car. This is particularly true if you share your car with your family members. A spare key enables everyone in the family their personal lanyard. This prevents accidental lockouts or theft of your car key.
Examine your warranty coverage basics and roadside assistance. Depending on the coverage, this kind of service can save you money on key duplication and replacement. A spare key could be useful if you have run out of fuel or your vehicle's battery goes out of. This will allow you to get back on the road in a hurry without having to wait for a tow truck, or be stranded in the cold.