11 Ways To Completely Redesign Your Key Cutting Car Save Money by Having Your Car Keys Cut and Programmed at an Ace Store

The loss or destruction of a spare car key can be a stressful experience especially if replacing it will require an expense to your local dealership for cars. The good news is that you could 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 offers security, comfort and peace of mind to car owners. It involves the use of sophisticated machinery for accurate shaping of keys to make sure they work smoothly and do not harm the ignition. This service is crucial when you need a spare or lost your keys. This process takes only a few minutes and can save you from needing to call a professional locksmith in the situation of an emergency lockout.

The process of key cutting varies depending on the type of key you require and the sophistication of the locks. For example transponder keys and smart keys employ encryption to prevent unauthorized re-use of the car's key. These keys also require special configuration and programming to work correctly. Key duplication and cutting process can be more complicated when you're trying to re-key locks or if you're trying to cut new keys from an existing one that doesn't have the right code.

Many people duplicate their keys in order to have a spare. This is particularly true when they are moving into a new house or want to gift copies of the keys to friends and family. Before you try this at your home, it's important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. It is essential to employ the right machine and the proper techniques for each to ensure a top quality key is created.

Getting your keys copied can be a hassle, and if it is done improperly, it could lead to incorrect copies that do not fit correctly or even allow you to open the lock. Bring your current keys to a retailer that offers key duplication services to ensure that your keys are duplicated correctly. An associate can then match it to the blank of your key, and trace its contours with an exact key-cutting machine at the site.

Another advantage of bringing your own keys to a duplication shop is that it allows you to save money with purchasing a replacement key from a dealership. Additionally, you can take advantage of discounts offered by stores that allow customers to bring in their keys for duplication.

cost of cutting a car key

There are a variety of keys on the market. Each type has its own unique combination of security and convenience. For instance, cylinder keys are widely utilized in both commercial and residential settings. Mortice keys are, however are more secure and are often found in traditional structures. Tubular keys are cylindrical shafts that fit into tubular pin tumbler locks, which are used to secure sheds and bicycles.

In addition to a range of cutting methods, modern keys can also be programmed to be compatible with specific vehicle systems. This is typically performed at the dealership or by a locksmith licensed who has access to proper equipment for programming keys.

Many of the most well-known keys for cars today are designed as remotes and do not require turning to start the car. Smart keys contain a microchip that is coded to match the particular car model and make they can work with. They can be cut and programmed at a qualified locksmith who is also a member of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).


It's always best to have a spare key for your car especially if you reside in an area that has high rates of crime. This is due to the fact that stealing cars is now a regular and fairly easy criminal activity. However, if you've lost the keys to your car, it is important to duplicate them as quickly as possible to get back on the road and not waste time searching for your vehicle.

A standard key can be duplicated with an ordinary machine. However, more advanced keys require special equipment and a technician who has the required knowledge to perform the task. Laser cut keys for instance, have an intricate pattern of long valleys instead of the ridges common to older keys. They are also more difficult to duplicate because of their complex shape.

Another type of key that requires the expertise of a professional to cut is the transponder key. These keys are commonly found in newer vehicles and can only by duplicated by a locksmith with the appropriate equipment for programming. They have a microchip that must be programmed into the vehicle in order to make it start.

Tools Used

You'll require a variety of tools to cut keys professionally. A key duplication machine is required to cut and duplicate standard keys as well as automotive ones. Also, you'll need a key decoder that provides measurements for Kwikset, Weslock, Schlage, and master keys. Also, you'll need an lock pick set as well as long reach tools to unlock cars. These tools are used to manipulate pins in a lock cylinder to allow you to open a door without damaging the lock.

There are a variety of key cutting machines. Each one is designed specifically for a particular type of lock. A manual key cutter will require you to manually move the key around the tracing and cutter wheels and is suitable for beginners or mobile locksmiths who are only required to cut a few keys at each time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are good choices for a manual key machine.

An automatic key machine can do everything for you, however, it's a bit more expensive than a manual one. The Silca 040 is the top automatic machine that is currently available.

A vice is another important tool. It is used to hold the key while it is being formed. A large vise is perfect for a car, and smaller ones are adequate for vans. A high-quality, sturdy vise will last for a long time and will help keep the key in place when filing.

Other tools you might consider for your toolbox include the padlock shim, which is used to take apart padlocks by placing an incredibly thin piece of metal around the shackle. You'll require a lockpick set and an instrument to manipulate the pins that are inside the keyhole of the locking device. These tools are particularly helpful for picking locks that are difficult to open with a regular key such as those that are that are found in cars and commercial buildings.

Finally, a broken key extractor allows you to extract a broken piece of the key that has become jammed in the key hole. This is an excellent tool to have and it can be found in basic kit for opening cars or buy it on its own.

mobile car key cutters than a simple metal shaping. It's an art form that offers security and ease of mind for the owner. This process requires specialized equipment and software. This procedure should be carried out by a reputable locksmith or a car dealership. A key cut incorrectly could cause damage to the lock leading to additional costs for repair or replacement. In car cutting out , a poorly cut key could not fit properly and cause future problems.

It is crucial to select a professional to cut your spare key using high-end knives and ensure the correct positioning of the chip. Cheaper blades can lead to poor quality cuts, which can cause the key to wear out faster and possibly break inside the lock cylinder. Also, it is important to make sure that the key is made from the correct metal. Some websites sell cheap sidewinder chips, which could harm the key cutting machine or cause the key to fail.

After cutting the key, if your car has a transponder or smart key, it will require programming. These keys employ encryption to ensure only the correct key is used to start the car. If you utilize an online service that duplicates keys at home, you might not be able to program the key correctly.

It is recommended that you have an additional car key for these kinds of vehicles, so you don't lose the original or lock it in the vehicle. This is especially true when you share your car with your family members. A spare car key allows each family member to have a key chain or lanyard, that will stop lockouts from happening accidentally and the theft of the key.

Review your warranty coverage for basic warranties, insurance or roadside assistance. This can save you money if it is covered. A spare key will also assist you in the event that your car battery fails or you are running out of gas. This will let you return to the road quickly and without waiting for a tow-truck or be trapped outside in the cold.