The Worst Advice We've Heard About Key Cutting Car
Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
It can be a stressful experience to lose or break a spare key, especially if you have to pay a high fee at the local car dealership. You will save money if you have your new spare keys cut and programmed in an Ace store near you.
What is Key Cutting?
It's an art form that offers security, comfort and peace of mind for car owners. It involves the use of sophisticated equipment to precisely cut keys to ensure that they function smoothly and don't damage the ignition. This service is crucial when you lose your keys or need to have a replacement key made. It takes just a few minutes to complete the process, and it could save you the stress of having to call a locksmith with a locked out or damaged key.
The process of cutting keys varies depending on the type of key you require as well as the sophistication of the locks. For example, transponder keys and smart keys utilize encryption to prevent unauthorized re-use of the car's keys. In addition they require specific programming and configuration for proper operation. Key cutting and duplication process is also more complex when it comes to re-keying locks or when you're trying to cut the new key from an existing one that doesn't have the correct code in it.
Many people choose to duplicate their keys and keep a spare especially when they're moving into a new home or want to distribute copies to family members and friends members. However, it's important to understand the difference between key duplication and cutting before you attempt this at home. To ensure that you get an excellent key, it is essential to use the correct machine and the correct methods.
The process of copying your keys is a pain and when done improperly it could result in flawed copies that won't fit correctly or even open the lock. Bring your keys that are working to a shop that offers key duplication services to make sure that your keys are duplicated correctly. This allows an associate to match it with the key blank and trace its contours on the precise key cutting machine onsite.
Another benefit of bringing your own keys to a duplication shop is that it allows you to save money with buying keys to replace from a dealer. You can also benefit from the discounts offered by stores that allow customers to bring their keys to be duplicated.
Keys Types
There are many types of keys available. Each type offers a unique combination of security and convenience. For get keys cut are commonly employed in both residential and commercial settings. Mortice keys however are more secure and are typically used in traditional buildings. Similarly, tubular keys have a cylindrical shaft that fits into the tubular pin tumbler lock often used to secure sheds and bikes.
In addition to a range of cutting techniques keys of today can be programmed to be compatible with specific vehicle systems. This is usually performed by a locksmith or an authorized dealer that has the proper key programming equipment.
For instance many of the most sought-after modern car keys are designed as remotes and are not required to be turned to start the vehicle. These are called smart keys and they have a microchip in them that is programmed to the specific make and model of car that they work with. They can only be programmed and cut by locksmiths who are member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
It's always recommended to have a spare key for your car particularly if you live in a region with high crime rates. The reason for this is that car theft has become a common and easy crime. However, if you've lost your car keys it's important to duplicate them as quickly as possible to get back on the road and not spend time searching for your vehicle.
While a basic key can be cut with an ordinary machine, more advanced keys require special tools and a skilled technician to accurately duplicate them. Keys made with lasers, for example, have patterns that consist of long valleys, not the ridges common to older keys. They are also more difficult to duplicate due to their complicated shape.
Transponder keys are a type of key which requires a professional for cutting. These are a common feature in newer vehicles and can only be duplicated by a licensed locksmith with the right programming equipment. This is due to the fact that they have a microchip in them that needs to be programmed to 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 standard keys, as also automotive keys. Also, you'll need a key decoder that provides measurements for Kwikset, Weslock, Schlage, and master keys. Additionally, you'll need an lock pick set as well as long reach tools for unlocking cars. These tools are specialized and used to move the pins within the lock cylinder, allowing you to unlock the door without damaging the lock.
There are many different kinds of key cutting machines and each one is suitable for a particular type of lock. A manual key cutter will require you to manually move the key around the tracing and cutter wheels, which is fine for locksmiths who are new or who only need to cut a couple of keys at each time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are excellent choices for a key machine that is manual.
A key machine that does everything for you. However, it is more expensive than a manual model. The Silca 040 is the top automatic machine that is currently available.
A second essential tool is a vice, which is needed to hold the key while it's being cut into shape. A large vise will work well for a car, while smaller vises are suitable for the van. A vise of good quality will last for a long time, and it will be much easier to keep your key in place while filing.
You could also consider adding a padlock shank into your toolbox. This is used to take padlocks apart using the thin metal piece around the shackle. You'll also require locks with picks and a tubular pick, which can be used to alter 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 the standard key.
Finally, a broken key extractor will allow you to extract a broken piece of a key that has become stuck in the key hole. This is a great tool to have and you can find it in basic kit for opening cars or buy it separately.
Safety
Car key cutting is more than cutting a piece of metal, it's an art that guarantees security, convenience and peace of mind for the vehicle owner. This procedure requires specialized tools and software. This procedure should be handled by an established locksmith or car dealership. Incorrectly cutting a key could damage the lock, resulting in extra costs for replacement or repair. A poorly cut key could also cause future problems because it might not fit correctly.
When you are deciding on a professional to cut your spare car key, it is important to select one that employs a top-quality blade and ensures the proper placement of the chip. The blades that are cheaper can produce less-than-quality cuts that can result in the key wearing out faster and possibly even break inside the lock. Also, it is important to ensure that the key is made of the correct metal. Some websites sell sidewinder chips that are of low quality, which can damage the key-cutting machine or cause 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 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.
For these types of vehicles, it is recommended that you have a spare key to ensure that you don't lose the original key or locking it inside the car. This is especially important when your car is shared with other family members. The possession of a spare car key will allow each member to have a separate key chain or lanyard, which will prevent accidental lockouts and the theft of keys.
It's also a good idea to verify your basic warranty or insurance policy, or roadside assistance coverage. Depending on the coverage, this type of service can 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 let you return to the road quickly without waiting on a tow-truck or being stranded outside in the cold.