How The 10 Worst Key Cutting Car FAILURES Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented
Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
Losing or breaking a spare car key can be stressful particularly if the replacement will require an exorbitant amount to your local dealership for cars. The good part is that you can save money by having your new spare keys cut and programmed at an Ace store near you.
What is Key Cutting?
It's an art form that provides security, convenience and peace of mind to car owners. It requires the use of advanced technology for precise shaping keys to make sure they function smoothly and don't harm the ignition. This is essential in the event that you require a spare or lost keys. The process takes only a few moments and can save you from having to contact a locksmith professional in the event of an emergency lockout.
The key-cutting process is dependent on the degree of complexity of the lock as well as the type of key you require. Keys that are transponder or intelligent, for example, use encryption to prevent the unauthorized reuse of the car key. They also require a special configuration and programming to work properly. Key cutting and duplication process is also more difficult when it comes to re-keying locks or if you're trying to cut the new key from an existing one that doesn't have the proper 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 give copies to friends and family members. Before you attempt this at home, it is important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. It's crucial that you use the correct machine and the proper methods for each to ensure that a high-quality key is produced.
Copying your keys can be a hassle, and if it is done wrong it could result in faulty copies that will not fit properly or will not even be able to open the lock. Bring your keys that are working to a retailer that offers key duplication to ensure that your keys are copied correctly. This will allow the associate to match it with the key blank and trace its contours on a precise key cutting machine on site.
Another benefit of bringing your keys to a duplication shop is that you can avoid the high costs associated with buying keys to replace from a dealership. In addition to this you can also take advantage of discounts that are offered by stores that permit customers to bring in their own keys for duplication.
Types of Keys
There are many kinds of keys on the market. Each offers a unique combination of convenience and security. For example, cylinder keys are widely utilized in both residential and commercial settings. Mortice keys however are more secure and are commonly found in traditional structures. Read the Full Guide are cylindrical shafts that fit into tubular pin tumbler locks, which are used to secure bicycles and sheds.
Modern keys can be programmed to work with specific car systems, in addition to the various cutting techniques. This is typically performed at the dealership or by a licensed locksmith who has access to correct key programming equipment.
For example some of the most well-known modern car keys are designed as remotes and don't require to be turned in order to start the vehicle. Smart keys have an embedded microchip which is programmed for the specific model and type of car they can work with. These keys can be programmed and cut by an experienced locksmith who is also an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).
It's always recommended to have a spare key for your car especially if you reside in an area with high crime rates. The reason is because car theft is now a common and easy crime. However, if you lose your car keys it's important to have them duplicated quickly to get back on the road and not spend time trying to find your vehicle.
While a standard key can be cut by an ordinary machine, more complex keys require specialized tools and a skilled technician to accurately duplicate them. For example, keys cut with lasers have a pattern of long valleys which replace the typical ridges that are found on older keys and are harder 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 of newer cars and can only be duplicated by a certified locksmith with the right programming equipment. This is due to the fact that they have a microchip inside that must be programmed into the vehicle in order for it to start.
Tools Used
You'll require a variety of tools to cut keys professionally. They include key duplication machines, which can cut and duplicate standard keys as well as keys for cars. You'll need a key decoder that gives measurements for Kwiksets, Weslocks and Schlages as well as master keys. You'll also need an lockpick set as well as a tool with a long reach to unlock cars. These tools are used to alter pins within the lock cylinder that allow you to open doors without breaking the lock.
There are a variety of key cutting machines and each is best for a particular type of lock. A manual key cutter will require the user to manually move the key around the tracing and cutter wheels, which is fine for locksmiths who are new or who need to cut a few keys at each time. Manual key machines, such as the Silca Flash and JMA Nomad are both good alternatives.
A key machine that is automatic can do everything for you, however, it's more expensive than a manual one. The Silca 040 is the most effective automatic machine that is currently available.
Another essential tool is a vice, which is required to hold the key while it's being filed into shape. A large vise will work well for a car and smaller vises are suitable for the van. A good vise will last for a long time and it's easier to keep your key in place while filing.
Other tools to consider for your toolbox include padlock shims that can be used to disassemble padlocks by placing an incredibly thin piece of metal around the shackle. You'll also need 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 useful when picking locks that are difficult to open with the standard key.
A broken key extractor will allow you to take out an unusable piece of a key that has become stuck in the key hole. This is a great tool to have and it can be found in some basic kit for opening cars or buy it separately.
Safety
Car key cutting is more than just creating a metal piece it's an art that provides security, ease of use and peace of mind for the vehicle owner. This process requires specialized software and machinery. This procedure should be carried out by a reputable locksmith or a car dealership. A cut that is not done correctly could cause damage to the lock and cause cost-plus repairs or replacement. A badly cut key can also cause future problems as it may not fit properly.
It is important that you select a professional who will cut your spare key with an excellent knife and ensure the correct positioning of chip. Cheaper blades can lead to poor quality cuts, causing the key to wear more quickly and could break within the lock cylinder. It is also essential to ensure that the key is made from the correct type of metal. Some online sites sell sidewinder chip of low quality, which could damage the machine that cuts keys or cause your keys to malfunction.
After cutting the key if your car has a transponder key or smart key, it must be programmed. The keys are encrypted so that only the correct key can be used to start the vehicle. If you choose to make use of a home key duplicate service, they may not be able to program the new key correctly.
For these types of cars it is recommended that you have an additional key to ensure that you don't lose the original key or locking it inside the car. This is particularly true in the event that you share your car with your family members. The possession of a spare car key will permit each member to have their own lanyard or key chain, that will stop lockouts from happening accidentally and theft of the key.
It's also a good idea to review your basic warranty or insurance policy, or roadside assistance coverage. Based on the coverage, this type of service could save you money on key duplication and replacement. A spare key will also be helpful if your car battery goes out or you have run out of gas. This will allow you to return to the road quickly and without waiting for a tow truck or be stranded outside in the cold.