Three Common Reasons Your Key Cutting Car Isn't Working (And The Best Ways To Fix It)
Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store
It can be stressful to lose or break keys, especially when you must pay a hefty price at your local car dealership. The good news is that you could save money by having the new spare keys cut and programmed at an Ace store close to you.
What is Key Cutting?
It is an art form that provides security, convenience and peace of mind to car owners. It requires the use of advanced technology for accurate shaping of keys to ensure they work without a hitch and won't harm the ignition. This is a must-have service if you lose your keys or need to have a spare key made. It takes only some minutes to complete the process and it could save you the hassle of having to call a locksmith to help with a broken or locked key.
The process of cutting keys varies depending on the type of key you require as well as the sophistication of the locks. Keys that are transponder or intelligent are for instance, which use encryption to stop unauthorized reuse of the car key. In addition to this they require specific configuration and programming for proper operation. When re-keying locks, or when you attempt to create an entirely new key from an older one that doesn't have the correct code, the duplicate process can be more complicated.
Many people decide to duplicate their keys and keep a spare, especially when they're moving into a new residence or want to distribute copies to friends and family members. Before you decide to try this at your home, you need to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. It's crucial that you employ the right machine and the correct methods 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 might not fit properly or even open the lock. A great way to make sure your keys are copied correctly is to bring your current working key to a store that provides key duplication services. This will allow the associate to match it with the blank key and trace its contours onto the precise key cutting machine on site.
Another advantage of bringing your keys to a duplication shop is that you can avoid the high costs associated with purchasing keys to replace from a dealership. You can also benefit from the discounts offered by stores which allow customers to bring in their own keys in for duplication.
Keys in various types
There are many types of keys available. Each provides a distinct combination of convenience and security. For instance Cylinder keys are commonly utilized in both residential and commercial settings. Mortice keys are, however, are more secure and are commonly used in traditional buildings. Tubular keys are cylindrical shafts that fit into tubular pin tumbler locks which are commonly used to secure bicycles and sheds.
Modern keys can be programmed to work with specific vehicle systems in addition to the various cutting techniques. This is usually carried out at the dealership or by a licensed locksmith who has access to proper equipment for programming keys.
For example, many of the most sought-after modern car keys are shaped like remotes and do not need to be turned to start the car. These are called smart keys and they have an embedded microchip that is coded to the specific brand and model of car that it will be used with. These keys can only be programmed and cut by locksmiths who are a member of Associated Locksmiths of America.
It's always recommended to keep a spare car key especially if you reside in a region with high crime rates. The reason is that car theft has become a common and easy crime. If you lose your keys, it's best to get them replaced as quickly as possible so you can be back on the road and not waste time looking for your car.
A basic key can be duplicated using a standard machine. However, advanced keys require special equipment and technicians with the necessary skills to accomplish this. Keys made with lasers, for example, have an intricate pattern of long valleys rather than the ridges that are typical of older keys. They are also more difficult to duplicate due to their complex shape.
Another type 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 with the appropriate programming equipment. This is because they contain a microchip inside that needs to be programmed into the vehicle in order to start.
Tools Used
If you're looking to do key cutting professionally, you'll require several tools. A key duplication machine is needed to cut and duplicate standard keys and automotive keys. You'll need a key decoder that provides measurements for Weslocks, Kwiksets and Schlages, as well as master keys. Also, you'll need an lock pick set as well as a long reach tool for unlocking automobiles. These tools are used to alter pins inside the lock cylinder that allow you to open doors without breaking the lock.
There are several different types of key cutting machines and each one is best for a particular kind of lock. Manual key cutters require you to manually move keys through the tracing wheels and cutter wheels. This is perfect for those who are just starting out or that only need to cut one or two keys at a given time. Manual key machines, such as the Silca Flash and JMA Nomad are both good alternatives.
A key machine that is automatic does everything for you, however, it's a bit more expensive than a manual device. The Silca 040 automated machine is the most effective one currently available.
A vice is an additional essential tool. It is used to hold the key while it is being formed. car key cutting and programming is perfect for a car, and smaller ones are adequate for a van. A vise of good quality will last for a long time, and it will be easier to keep your key in place while filing.
Other tools you could think about adding to your toolbox are padlock shims, which is used to disassemble padlocks by placing a thin piece of metal around the shackle. You'll also need an lock pick set as well as a tubular pick, which can be used to alter the pins that are in the key hole of the lock. These tools are especially useful for picking locks which are difficult to open using the standard key.
A key extractor for broken keys allows you to extract a piece of a broken key that has gotten stuck in the keyhole. This is an excellent tool that is available 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 provides security, ease of use and peace of mind for the owner. This process requires special equipment and software. It should be done by a reputable locksmith or car dealership. A key cut incorrectly could damage the lock and cause additional costs for repair or replacement. A badly cut key can cause problems in the future because it may not fit properly.
When deciding on a professional to cut your spare car key it is crucial to select a professional who uses a high-quality blade and ensures that the chip is placed correctly the chip. The blades that are cheaper can produce lower quality cuts, which can cause the key to wear out faster and possibly even break inside the lock. It is also important 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 key-cutting machine or cause your keys to malfunction.
After cutting the key, if your car has an transponder key or smart key it must be programmed. These types of keys utilize encryption to ensure only the right key is able to start the vehicle. If you utilize a service that duplicates keys at home, you might not be able to program the key correctly.
For these kinds of vehicles it is recommended you have an additional key to ensure that you don't lose the original key or locking it inside the car. This is especially true in the case of cars shared with other family members. Having a spare car key allows each family member to have a key chain or lanyard which will prevent accidental lockouts and the theft of the key.
Check your warranty coverage basics or roadside assistance. This service may save you money if covered. A spare key can be useful in the event that you have run out of fuel or your vehicle's battery fails to. This will enable you to get back on the road quickly, without having to wait for a tow truck or be trapped outside in the cold.