5 Laws That Will Help The Key Cutting Car Industry
Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
A broken or lost spare car key can be stressful especially if replacing it requires that you pay an expense to the local car dealership. You can save money if have your spare keys cut and programmed at an Ace store near you.
What is Key Cutting?
Key cutting is a skill that ensures security, convenience and peace of head 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 are locked out of your keys or you need to have a replacement key made. It takes just some minutes to complete the process and it will take away the stress of having to contact a locksmith with a broken or locked key.
The process of cutting keys is dependent on the complexity of the lock and the type of key that you require. For example transponder keys and smart keys utilize encryption to prevent the unauthorized reuse of the car's keys. They also require a special configuration and programming to function correctly. When re-keying locks, or when you are trying to make a new key from an older one that doesn't have the correct code, the duplicate process could be more complicated.
Many people duplicate their keys in order to have an extra. This is especially relevant when they move into a new house or want to gift copies of the keys to relatives and friends. However, it's essential to know the difference between key duplication and cutting before you decide to try this at home. It is essential to employ the right machine and the right techniques for each to ensure a quality key is produced.
It can be a pain to get your keys duplicated. If it is done incorrectly they may not fit correctly or even open the lock. A great way to make sure your keys are copied correctly is to take your current working key to a shop which offers key duplication. A staff member will then match it to the blank key and trace its contours using an exact key-cutting machine at site.
Another advantage of bringing your keys to a key duplication shop is that you avoid the high prices associated with purchasing a replacement key from a dealership. Additionally you can also take advantage of discounts offered by stores that allow customers to bring their keys for duplication.
Keys Types
There are a variety of keys on the market, each providing a unique balance of convenience and protection. For example Cylinder keys are commonly utilized in both residential and commercial settings. Mortice keys, on the other hand, are more secure and are often found in traditional buildings. Similarly, tubular keys have an elongated shaft that fits into the tubular pin tumbler lock, commonly used for securing sheds and bikes.
In addition to a variety of cutting techniques, modern keys can also be programmed to be compatible with specific vehicle systems. This is typically performed at the dealership or by a licensed locksmith who has access to correct key programming equipment.
For instance many of the most sought-after modern car keys are designed like remotes and are not required to be turned to start the car. Smart keys have a microchip that is coded to match the particular model and make of car they can work with. These keys can only be programmed and cut by locksmiths who are member of the Associated Locksmiths of America.
It's always best to have a spare key for your car, especially if you live in an area that has high rates of crime. The reason is that car theft has become a relatively frequent and easy crime. If you do lose your keys to your car, it's crucial to duplicate them quickly so that you can get back on the road and not spend time trying to find your vehicle.
A basic key can be duplicated using a standard machine. However, key cutting open now advanced keys require specialized equipment and technicians with the necessary skills to accomplish this. Keys cut with lasers, for example, have patterns that consist of long valleys rather than the ridges typical to older keys. They are also more difficult to duplicate due to their complex shape.
Another type of key that requires an expert to cut is the transponder key. They are a typical feature of newer cars and can only be duplicated by a certified locksmith with the appropriate programming equipment. This is because they contain an embedded microchip that needs to be programmed to the vehicle in order for it to start.
Tools Used
If you want to perform key cutting professionally, you'll need a variety of tools. These include the key duplication machine which can cut and duplicate regular keys as also automotive keys. You'll also require a key decoder that provides measurements for Kwikset, Weslock, Schlage master keys and Schlage. You'll also require an lockpick set as well as an instrument that has a long reach to unlock cars. These tools are used to manipulate pins within the lock cylinder that allow you to open a door without breaking the lock.
There are a myriad of key cutting machines for cutting keys. Each is designed specifically for a particular type of lock. A manual key cutter requires you to manually move the key through the cutter and tracing wheels which is ideal for beginners or mobile locksmiths who only need to cut a couple of keys at a time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are excellent choices for a manual key cutter.
A machine that is automatic does everything for you. However it's more expensive than a manual model. The Silca 040 automated machine is the best one currently available.
A second essential tool is a vice that is used to hold the key while it's being filed into shape. A large vise is well for a car and smaller vises are suitable for a van. A vise of good quality will last for a long time, and it will be easier to keep your keys in place when filing.
Other tools you might be considering for your toolbox include the padlock shim that is used to break up padlocks by inserting an incredibly thin piece of metal around the shackle. You'll require a lockpick set and an instrument to manipulate the pins inside the keyhole of the locking device. These tools are particularly useful when picking locks that are difficult to open using a regular key.
A broken key extractor allows you to take out an unusable piece of the key that has become jammed in the key hole. This is an excellent tool that is available in the basic set of car opening kits or purchase separately.
Safety
It's much more than simple metal shaping. It's an art form that offers security, comfort and peace of mind to the vehicle owner. This process requires special equipment and software. This process should be performed by an accredited locksmith or a car dealership. A wrongly cut key could cause damage to the lock and result in cost-plus repairs or replacement. A key that is not cut correctly could also cause future problems because it may not fit properly.
When deciding on a professional to cut your spare car key it is essential to choose one who uses a high-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 more quickly and may even break inside the lock. It is also crucial to make sure the key is made of the correct type of metal. Some online sites sell sidewinder chips of poor quality, which can damage 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 key cutting process. These keys employ encryption to ensure only the correct key is allowed to start the car. If you opt to make use of a home key duplicate service, they may not be in a position to program the new key correctly.
For these types of cars it is recommended that you have an extra key to avoid losing the original key or locking it inside the car. This is particularly true in the case of cars shared with other family members. Having a spare car key will allow each member to have their own key chain or lanyard that will stop lockouts from happening accidentally and the 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 kind of service can save you money on key duplication and replacement. A spare key will also be helpful if your car battery dies or you are running out of gas. This will allow you to get back to the road quickly and without waiting for a tow-truck or be stuck outside in the frigid winter.