The 10 Most Dismal Key Cutting Car Errors Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
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, particularly when you are required to pay a large amount at your local car dealership. The good part 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?
Key cutting is an art that guarantees security, ease of use and peace of mind for car owners. It involves the use of sophisticated equipment to precisely cut keys so that they work smoothly and do not damage the ignition. This is essential when you need an extra key or lost your keys. It only takes some 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 process of key cutting varies depending on the type of key you require and the level of sophistication of the locks. Keys that are transponder or intelligent for instance, employ encryption to prevent unauthorized reuse of the car key. In addition they require specific programming and configuration in order to work properly. The key duplication and cutting process can be more complicated when you're trying to re-key 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 to have a spare. This is especially relevant when they move to a new home or wish to give copies of the keys to friends and family. It's crucial to know the distinction between key duplication and cutting before you decide to try this at home. It's crucial that you employ the right machine and the proper techniques for each to ensure a top quality key is created.
The process of copying your keys can be a hassle, and if done incorrectly it could result in faulty copies that will not fit correctly or even be able to open the lock. One way to ensure that your keys are copied correctly is to take your current working key to a shop that offers key duplication services. An associate will then match it to the blank key, and trace its contours with a precise key-cutting device on site.
Another advantage of bringing your keys to a key duplication shop is that you can avoid the high costs associated with buying a replacement key from a dealership. You can also take advantage of the discounts offered by shops who permit customers to bring their own keys in for duplication.
Keys Types
There are a variety of keys on the market. Each type has its own unique combination of convenience and security. Cylinder keys, for instance are a simple lock that is widely utilized in commercial and residential settings, while mortice keys are the norm in traditional structures and come with more security features. Tubular keys are cylindrical shafts that can be inserted into tubular pin tumbler locks, which are used to secure sheds and bicycles.
In addition to a range of cutting techniques keys of today can be programmed to work with specific vehicle systems. This is usually done at the dealership or by a locksmith licensed who has access to the correct key programming equipment.
For example, some of the most popular modern car keys are shaped as remotes and do not need to be turned in order to start the vehicle. Smart keys contain a microchip that is coded to match the particular model and make of car they can use. These keys can be programmed and cut at a qualified locksmith who is also a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).
It is always advisable to have a spare car key especially if you reside in an area that has high crime rates. This is because stealing cars is a frequent and relatively simple criminal enterprise. If you do lose your keys to your car, it's crucial to duplicate them as quickly as possible to get back on the road and not spend time trying to find your vehicle.
A standard key can be duplicated with a standard machine. However, advanced keys require specialized equipment and a technician with the necessary knowledge to perform the task. For instance, laser cut keys feature a pattern of long valleys that replace the usual ridges on older keys. They are harder to duplicate due to their complex shape.
Transponder keys are another type of key that requires a professional to cut. They are found in newer vehicles and can only be duplicated by a locksmith with the appropriate programming equipment. They contain a microchip which must be programmed into the vehicle to enable it to start.
Tools Used
You'll require a variety of tools to cut keys professionally. A key duplication machine is needed to cut and duplicate standard keys, and automotive keys. You'll need an instrument to decode keys that can provide measurements for Weslocks, Kwiksets, Schlages, and master keys. You'll also need a lockpick set and a tool that has a long reach to unlock cars. These tools are specially designed and used to alter the pins inside the lock cylinder, allowing you to unlock the door without damaging the lock.
There are motorcycle key cutting of key cutting equipment, and each one is suitable for a specific type of lock. A manual key cutter will require the user to manually move the key through the cutter wheels and tracing, which is fine for those who are just beginning or who need to cut a few keys at each time. Manual key machines like the Silca Flash and JMA Nomad are both good alternatives.
A machine that does all the work. However it's more expensive than a manual machine. The Silca 040 is the most effective automatic machine that is currently available.
Another essential tool is a vice, which is needed to hold the key while it's being cut into shape. A large vise is perfect for a car, whereas smaller ones are adequate for a van. A good quality, beefy vise will last for a long time, and make it easier to keep the key in place when filing.
Other tools you could be considering for your toolbox include a padlock shim that is used to take apart padlocks by inserting the thin metal piece around the shackle. You'll also need a lock pick set and a tubular pick. Both are used to manipulate the pins inside the key hole of locks. These tools are especially useful for picking locks which are difficult to open using a regular key.
A broken key extractor allows you to remove the broken piece of a key that has become jammed in the key hole. This is a fantastic tool that you can find in the basic set of car opening kits or buy separately.
Safety
It's much more than simple metal shaping. It's an art form that provides security and ease of mind to the owner. This process requires special tools and software. It should be completed by a reliable locksmith or car dealership. If you cut the key incorrectly, it could cause damage to the lock resulting in additional expenses for replacement or repair. Additionally a key that is not cut correctly could not fit properly and may cause further problems.
It is important that you select a professional who will cut your spare key using a high-quality knife and ensure proper placement of chip. Blades that are less expensive can result in lower quality cuts, which can cause the key to wear out more quickly and could break inside the lock. Also, it is essential to make sure that the key is made from the correct metal. Some online sites sell sidewinder chip of low quality, which could damage the machine used to cut keys or cause keys to malfunction.
If your vehicle has a transponder or smart key, it will need to be programmed following the key cutting process. These types of keys utilize encryption to ensure that only the correct key is used to start the car. If you utilize a service that duplicates keys at home, they might not be able 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 or locking it inside the car. This is especially true in the case of cars shared with other family members. The possession of a spare car key allows each member to have a key chain or lanyard which will prevent accidental lockouts and the theft of keys.
Check your warranty coverage basics, insurance or roadside assistance. This can save you money if covered. A spare key can be useful in the event that you have run out of fuel or your car's battery goes out of. This will let you get back to the road quickly, without having to wait for a tow-truck or be stranded outside in the cold.