Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store

A broken or lost spare car key can be stressful particularly if the replacement will require an exorbitant amount to the local car dealership. You can save money if have your new spare keys cut and programmed at an Ace store near you.

What is Key Cutting?

Key cutting is an art that ensures security, convenience, and peace of mind for car owners. It requires sophisticated machinery to precisely cut keys to ensure that they function smoothly and do not damage the ignition. This is a must-have service if you are locked out of your keys or you need to have a new key made. It takes only a few minutes to complete the process, and it can save you the hassle of having call a locksmith to help with a lockout or broken key.

The procedure for cutting keys is dependent on the degree of complexity of the lock as well as the type of key you require. For instance keys that are transponder and smart keys use encryption to prevent unauthorized re-use of the car's Key Cutting Car. Additionally, these keys require a specific programming and configuration in order to work properly. Key cutting and duplication process is also more complex when it comes to re-keying locks or when you're trying to cut a new key from an existing one that doesn't have the proper code in it.

Many people duplicate their keys to keep a spare. This is especially the case when they move into a new house or want to give copies of the keys to family and friends. However, it's essential to know the difference between key cut duplication and cutting before you attempt this at home. To ensure you get an excellent key, it is essential to use the correct machine and the correct techniques.

Copying your keys is a pain and when done improperly, it could lead to flawed copies that won't fit correctly or even be able to open the lock. A good way to ensure your keys are copied correctly is to bring your existing working key to a retailer that offers key duplication services. An associate can then match it to the blank key and trace its contours using a precise key-cutting machine on the site.

Another advantage of bringing your own keys to a key duplication shop is that you can avoid the high prices associated with purchasing an additional key from a dealership. In addition, you can take advantage of discounts provided by shops that allow customers to bring their own keys to be duplicated.

Types of Keys

There are many kinds of keys on the market. Each type provides a distinct combination of security and convenience. Cylinder keys, for instance, are simple and widely used in commercial and residential settings Mortice keys are the norm in traditional structures and provide more security features. Tubular keys are cylindrical shafts that fit into tubular pin tumbler locks, which are typically used to secure bicycles and sheds.

In addition to a range of cutting methods keys of today can be programmed to work with specific vehicle systems. This is usually done at the dealership or by a licensed locksmith who has access to the appropriate equipment for key programming.

Some of the most sought-after car keys today are shaped as remotes and don't require turning to start the car. These are called smart keys and they have an embedded microchip that is programmed to the specific brand and model of car they will work with. These keys can be programmed and cut by the hands of a locksmith who is also an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).

It is recommended to always have a spare key, especially in areas that have an extremely high rate of crime. The reason is because car theft is now a frequent and easy crime. If you have lost your keys, you should get them replaced as quickly as you can, so that you be back on the road and not waste time searching for your car.

A basic key can be duplicated with an ordinary machine. However, advanced keys require specialized equipment and a technician who has the required training to do so. For instance, laser cut keys feature a pattern of long valleys that replace the typical ridges found on older keys and are difficult to duplicate due to their complicated shape.

Transponder keys are another type of key that requires a professional to cut. These keys are commonly found in newer vehicles and can only by duplicated by a locksmith using the right programming equipment. This is because they have a microchip inside that must be programmed into the vehicle in order for it to start.

Tools Used

If you're planning to perform key cutting professionally, you'll need several tools. They include a key duplication machine, which can cut and duplicate regular keys as also automotive keys. You'll need a key decoder that gives measurements for Kwiksets, Weslocks and Schlages as well as master keys. Also, you'll need locks and picks as well as long reach tools to unlock vehicles. These tools are used to manipulate pins within the lock cylinder, allowing you to open a door without damaging the lock.

There are several different types of key cutting machines, and each is best for a particular type of lock. Manual key cutters require the user to manually move keys through the tracing wheel and cutter wheels. This is ideal for beginners or mobile locksmiths who only require cutting one or two keys at the same time. Manual auto key cutting machines, such as the Silca Flash and JMA Nomad are both good options.

An automatic key machine does everything for you, however, it's a bit more expensive than a manual device. The Silca 040 automatic machine is the best one currently available.

A vice is another important tool. It is used to hold the key while it is being made. A large vise is perfect for a car, while smaller ones are adequate for a van. A good quality, beefy vise will last for a long time and will help keep the key in place when filing.

You could also consider adding a padlock shank into your toolbox. This is used to remove padlocks by putting the thin metal piece around the shackle. You'll also need an lock pick set as well as a tubular pick, which are used to manipulate the pins that are in the key hole of a lock. These tools are especially helpful for picking locks that are difficult to open with a standard key.

A broken key extractor allows 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 it can be found in basic car opening kits or purchase it separately.

Safety

Car key cutting is more than creating a metal piece it's an art that provides security, ease of use and peace of mind for the owner. This process requires specialized equipment and software. It should be done by an experienced locksmith or car dealership. A cut that is not done correctly could damage the lock and cause cost-plus repairs or replacement. A key that is not cut correctly could also cause future problems because it may not fit properly.

When choosing a professional to cut your car key spare, it is important to choose one who uses a high-quality blade and ensures the proper placement of the chip. Cheaper blades can lead to poor quality cuts, causing the key to wear out faster and could break within the lock cylinder. It is also important to make sure the key is made from the right type of metal. Some online sites sell sidewinder chips that are of low quality, which could damage the machine that cuts keys or cause your keys to malfunction.

If your car is equipped with a transponder or smart key, it will have to be programmed following the key cutting process. These types of keys utilize encryption to ensure that only the correct key is allowed to start the car. If you use an online service that duplicates keys at home, you may be unable to program the key correctly.

For these types of cars it is recommended you have a spare key to avoid losing the original key or locking it inside the car. This is especially important when your car is shared with other family members. Having a spare car key allows each family member to have a lanyard or key chain, which will help prevent lockouts by accident and theft of the key.

Examine your warranty coverage basics or roadside assistance. Based on the coverage, this kind of service could save you money on key duplication and replacement. Having a spare key will also assist you in the event that your car battery fails or you are running out of gas. This will enable you to return to the road in a hurry without having to wait for a tow truck, or be trapped in the frigid winter.