It can be stressful to lose or break a spare key, especially if you have to pay a high fee at your local car dealership. The good news is that you can save money by having the new spare car keys cut and programmed at an Ace store close to you.
What is Key Cutting?
Key cutting is an art that ensures security, convenience and peace of head for car owners. It involves the use of sophisticated machinery for accurate shaping of keys to ensure that they function smoothly and don't damage the ignition. This service is essential when you are locked out of your keys or you need to have a replacement key made. It takes only some minutes to complete the process, and it could save you the hassle of having call a locksmith to help with a locked out or damaged key.
The key-cutting process varies according to the degree of complexity of the lock as well as the type of key you require. Keys with transponders and intelligent ones, for example, use encryption to prevent unauthorized reuse of the car key. They also require a special configuration and programming to function correctly. Key cutting and duplication process is also more difficult when you're trying to re-key locks or when you're trying to cut a new key from an existing one that doesn't have the right code.
Many people decide to duplicate their keys and keep a spare, especially when they're moving to a new house or want to distribute copies to family and friends members. Before you attempt this at home, it's important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. To ensure that you get an excellent key, it's important to make use of the correct equipment and the correct methods.
Copying your keys can be a hassle and if done improperly it could result in incorrect copies that do not fit correctly or even open the lock. Bring your keys that are working to a store offering key duplication services to ensure that your keys are copied correctly. This will allow the associate to match it up with the blank key and trace its contours onto the precise key cutting machine in the store.
You can also avoid paying a high price for keys that are replacement at a dealer by bringing your keys to a key-duplication shop. You can also take advantage of the discounts offered by stores that allow customers to bring their keys for duplication.
Keys in various types
There are many types of keys available. Each one provides a distinct combination of convenience and security. Cylinder keys, for instance are a simple lock that is widely utilized in commercial and residential settings and mortice keys are an essential part of traditional structures and come with more security features. 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 methods keys of today can be programmed to be compatible with specific vehicle systems. This is usually performed by a locksmith or a dealership with the right key programming equipment.
Some of the most popular car keys today are shaped as remotes, and do not require turning to start the car. These keys are known as smart keys. They have an embedded microchip that is programmed to the specific make and model of car that they will use. They can only be programmed and cut by a locksmith who is a member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
It's always recommended to have a spare car key especially if you reside in an area with high crime rates. The reason is because car theft has become a relatively common and easy crime. If you lose your keys, you should get them duplicated as soon as possible so you can return to the road and not waste your time looking for your vehicle.
While a basic key can be cut using an ordinary machine, more complex keys require special tools and a trained technician to accurately duplicate them. Laser cut keys for instance, feature a pattern that consists of long valleys instead of the ridges typical to older keys. They are also more difficult to duplicate due to their intricate shape.
Another type of key that requires the expertise of a professional to cut is the transponder key. 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 inside which needs to be programmed to the vehicle in order for it to start.
Tools Used
You'll require several tools to cut keys professionally. A key duplication machine is needed to cut and duplicate standard keys, and automotive keys. You'll also require an encoder for keys, which offers measurements for Kwikset, Weslock, Schlage, and master keys. You'll also need an lockpick set as well as a tool that has a long reach to unlock cars. These tools are designed to be used to move the pins within the lock cylinder, allowing you to open the door without damaging the lock.
There are a variety of key cutting machines. Each is made specifically for a particular type of lock. Manual key cutters require the user to manually move keys through the tracing wheels and cutter wheels. This is great for locksmiths who are new or mobile that only need to cut one or two keys at a given time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are good choices for a manual key cutter.
A key machine that is automatic does all the work. However, it is more expensive than a manual machine. The Silca 040 machine that is automated is the best currently available.
Another important tool is a vice which is required to hold the key when it's being cut into shape. A large vise is well for a car while smaller vises are suitable for a van. A vise of good quality will last for a long time and it's easier to keep your key in place while filing.
You might also consider adding a padlock shank into your toolbox. It can be used to remove padlocks by putting a thin metal piece around the shackle. You'll need a lockpick set and an instrument to manipulate the pins inside the keyhole of a 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.
car key cutting near me broken key extractor can allow you to remove the broken piece of the key that is stuck in the key hole. This is a fantastic tool that you can find in basic car opening sets or buy separately.
Safety
Car key cutting is more than just cutting a piece of metal it's an art that guarantees security, convenience and peace of mind for the owner. This process requires specialized equipment and software. It should be done by a reliable locksmith or car dealership. A key cut incorrectly could cause damage to the lock and result in additional costs for repair or replacement. A poorly cut key could also cause future problems because it might not fit correctly.
It is important that you choose a professional who will cut your spare key with an excellent knife and ensure the proper positioning of the chip. Blades that are less expensive can result in lower quality cuts, which can cause the key to wear out more quickly and may even break inside the lock. Also, it is important to ensure that the key is made from the correct metal. Some websites sell sidewinder chips of poor quality, which could damage the key-cutting machine or cause keys to malfunction.
After cutting the key if your car has a transponder key or smart key, it must be programmed. These keys use encryption so that only the correct key is able to start the vehicle. If you utilize a service that duplicates keys at home, you may be unable to program the key correctly.
For these types of cars, 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 you share your car with other family members. The possession of a spare car key allows each member to have their own key chain or lanyard, which will help prevent lockouts by accident 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 kind of service could save you money on key duplicate and replacement. A spare key could be helpful 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 quickly and without waiting for a tow truck or be trapped outside in the cold.
