The 10 Most Dismal 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
It can be stressful to lose or break a spare key, particularly if you have to pay a large amount at the local car dealership. You can save money if you have the spare keys cut and programmed at an Ace store close to you.
What is Key Cutting?
It's an art that provides security, convenience and peace of mind to car owners. It involves the use of sophisticated machinery for precise shaping keys to make sure they work smoothly and do not cause damage to the ignition. This service is crucial in the event that you require an extra key or lost keys. It only takes a few minutes to complete the process, and it can save you the stress of having to contact a locksmith with a lockout or broken key.
The key-cutting process varies according to the complexity of the lock and the type of key that you require. Transponder keys and intelligent keys for instance, employ encryption to prevent unauthorized reuse of the car key. These keys also require specific configuration and programming in order to function correctly. Key cutting and duplication process is also more complex when you're trying to re-key locks or trying to cut new keys from an existing one that doesn't have the right code in it.
Many people decide to duplicate their keys and keep a spare especially when they move to a new house or want to distribute copies to family and friends members. Before you attempt this at your home, it is important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. It is essential to make use of the right equipment and the correct techniques for each to ensure that a high-quality key is created.
Getting your keys copied can be a hassle and if done improperly, it could lead to incorrect copies that do not fit correctly or even be able to open the lock. One way to ensure your keys are correctly copied is to take your current working key to a store that offers key duplication services. This allows an associate to match it with the blank key and trace its contours onto the precise key cutting machine in the store.
Another advantage of bringing your keys to a key duplication shop is that you can avoid the high costs associated with buying an additional key from a dealer. You are also able to take advantage of the discounts offered by stores that permit customers to bring their keys to be duplicated.
Keys Types
There are many different types of keys on the market, each with the perfect balance of convenience and security. For example, cylinder keys are widely employed in both commercial and residential settings. Mortice keys, on the other hand, are more secure and are typically found in traditional structures. 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 performed by a locksmith or an auto dealer with the appropriate key programming equipment.
For instance, some of the most popular modern car keys are shaped like remotes and don't require to be turned in order to start the vehicle. These are called smart keys, and they come with a microchip in them that is programmed to the specific brand and model of car that they use. They can only be programmed and cut by a locksmith who is a member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
It is advisable to always carry an extra key, particularly in areas that have an extremely high rate of crime. The reason for this is that car theft is now a common and easy crime. If you do lose the keys to your car, it is important to duplicate them as quickly as possible to return to the road and not waste time searching for your vehicle.
A basic key can be duplicated with an ordinary machine. However, more advanced keys require special equipment and technicians with the proper training to do so. Keys made with lasers for instance, have a pattern that consists of long valleys instead of the ridges that are typical of older keys. They are also more difficult to duplicate because of their complex shape.
Another kind of key that requires the expertise of a professional to cut is the transponder key. These keys are common in newer vehicles and can only be duplicated by a locksmith using the appropriate programming equipment. This is because they contain a microchip in them which needs to be programmed to the vehicle in order for it to start.
Tools Used
You'll require a variety of tools to cut keys professionally. These include a key duplication machine, that cuts and duplicates standard keys as well as keys for cars. You'll require a key decoder that gives measurements for Weslocks, Kwiksets and Schlages as well as master keys. You'll also require an lockpick set as well as tools that has a long reach to unlock cars. These tools are designed to be used to alter the pins inside the lock cylinder to allow you to unlock the door without damaging the lock.
There are many different kinds of key cutting machines and each one is best for a particular kind of lock. A manual key cutter will require the user to manually move the key around the cutter and tracing wheels which is ideal for those who are just beginning or who need to cut a few keys at each time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are great options for a manual key machine.
A crucial machine that does all the work for you. However, it is more expensive than a manual machine. The Silca 040 automatic machine is the best currently available.
A vice is a different important tool. It is used to hold the key in place while it is being shaped. A large vise is well for a car and smaller vises are suitable for vans. A high-quality, sturdy vise will last a long time and will aid in keeping the key in place while filing.
Other tools you could be considering for your toolbox include padlock shims that is used to break up padlocks by putting a thin piece of metal around the shackle. You'll need a lockpick set and a tube pick to manipulate the pins inside the keyhole of the locking device. These tools are especially helpful for picking locks that are difficult to open with a regular key, such as those found in cars or some commercial buildings.
A broken key extractor allows you to remove the broken piece of key that has gotten stuck in the keyhole. This is a fantastic tool that you can find in the basic set of car opening kits or buy separately.
Safety
Car key cutting is more than just creating a metal piece, 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 carried out by an experienced locksmith or car dealership. Incorrectly cutting a key could cause damage to the lock resulting in extra costs for replacement or repair. Additionally, a cut that isn't done correctly could not fit properly and may cause further problems.
It is crucial to select a professional to cut your spare key using high-end knives and ensure proper placement of the chip. Cheaper blades can lead to poor quality cuts, causing the key to wear faster and possibly break inside the lock cylinder. It is also essential to ensure that the key is made of the right type of metal. Some online sites sell sidewinder chip of low quality, which could harm the machine used to cut keys or cause keys to malfunction.
If your car has a transponder or smart key, it will have to be programmed after the cutting process. These keys use encryption so that only the right key can be used to start the vehicle. If you are using a service that duplicates keys at home, they may be unable to program the key correctly.
For these types of vehicles it is recommended that you have an additional key to avoid losing the original or locking it inside the car. This is especially important when your car is shared with other family members. A spare key allows each family member to have their personal lanyard. This prevents accidental lockouts or theft of your car key.
It's also a good idea to review your basic warranty or insurance coverage, as well as roadside assistance coverage. This could save you money if covered. car key cutters can also be helpful if you have run out of fuel or your car's battery goes out of. This will allow you to return to the road quickly, without waiting for a tow truck, or be stuck in the freezing cold.