The Most Hilarious Complaints We've Seen About 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 very stressful especially if replacing it will require an expense to your local dealership for cars. The good part is that you can save money by having the new spare car keys cut and programmed at an Ace store close to you.

What is Key Cutting?

It's an art form that provides security, convenience and peace of mind for car owners. It requires advanced machinery to accurately shape keys so that they work smoothly and don't damage the ignition. This service is crucial in the event that you require a spare or lost keys. It takes just a few minutes to complete the process and it will take away the hassle of having contact a locksmith with a locked out or damaged key.

Get More for cutting keys differs based on the level of the lock's complexity and the type of key that you require. Transponder keys and intelligent keys are for instance, which use encryption to prevent unauthorized reuse of the car key. In addition they require specific programming and configuration for proper operation. When re-keying locks, or when you are trying to make an entirely new key from an older one that doesn't have the proper code, the duplicate process can be more complicated.

Many people duplicate their keys to keep an extra. This is especially true when they are moving to a new home or want to gift copies of the key to friends and family. Before you attempt this at home, it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. To ensure you get a high-quality key, you must use the right machine and the correct methods.

It can be a pain to get your keys duplicated. If 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 shop that offers key duplication services. This will allow the associate to match it up with the key blank and trace its contours onto a precise key cutting machine on site.

Another benefit of bringing your keys to a key duplication shop is that you can avoid the high prices associated with buying an additional key from a dealer. Additionally you can also take advantage of discounts offered by stores that permit customers to bring their keys for duplication.

Keys in various types

There are a variety of keys on the market, each with a unique balance of security and convenience. For instance Cylinder keys are widely employed in both commercial and residential settings. Mortice keys 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 bicycles and sheds.

In addition to a variety of cutting techniques keys of today can be programmed to work with specific car systems. This is usually performed at the dealership or by a locksmith licensed who has access correct key programming equipment.

Some of the most sought-after car keys today are shaped as remotes, and do not require turning to start the car. Smart keys have an embedded microchip which is programmed to match the particular model and make of car they can use. They can be programmed and cut at an experienced locksmith who is also an associate member of the Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA).


It's always best to keep a spare car key particularly if you live in an area that has high crime rates. This is due to the fact that stealing cars is now a regular and relatively simple criminal enterprise. If you have lost your keys, it's best to duplicate them as soon as you can so that you be back on the road and not waste time looking for your car.

A standard key can be duplicated using a standard machine. However, more advanced keys require special equipment and technicians who has the required training to do so. For instance, laser cut keys are characterized by long valleys which replace the typical ridges found on older keys. They are more difficult to duplicate due to their intricate shape.

Transponder keys are another type of key which requires a professional to cut. These keys are commonly found in newer cars and can only be duplicated by a locksmith who has the appropriate programming equipment. They contain a microchip which must be programmed into the vehicle to allow it to start.

Tools used

If you're planning to perform key cutting professionally, you'll require various tools. This includes the key duplication machine which cuts and duplicates regular keys as well as keys for cars. You'll also require a key decoder that gives measurements for Kwikset, Weslock, Schlage, and master keys. In addition, you'll require a lock pick set and a long reach tool for unlocking vehicles. These tools are specialized and used to manipulate the pins in a lock cylinder, allowing you to open the door without breaking the lock.

There are a myriad of key cutting machines for cutting keys. Each is made for a particular type of lock. Manual key cutters require you to manually move keys between the tracing wheels and cutter wheels. This is great for those who are just starting out or who only need to cut one or two keys at a time. The JMA Nomad and Silca Flash are good choices for a key machine that is manual.

A key machine that is automated will do everything for you however, it's more expensive than a manual one. The Silca 040 is the most effective automated machine available today.

A vice is a different important tool. It is used to hold the key when it is being shaped. A large vise is perfect for a car, whereas smaller ones are sufficient for a van. A good vise will last for a long time, and it will be easier to keep your key in place while filing.

Other tools to consider for your toolbox include a padlock shim that is used to break up padlocks by placing the thin metal piece around the shackle. You'll require a lockpick set as well as an instrument to manipulate the pins in the keyhole of a locking device. These tools are particularly useful for picking locks that are difficult to open using the standard key such as those that are found in automobiles or commercial buildings.

Finally, 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 provides security, convenience and peace of mind to the owner. This process involves specialized machinery and software. It should be completed by a reliable locksmith or car dealership. If you cut the key incorrectly, it could damage the lock, leading to cost-plus expenses for replacement or repair. Additionally, a poorly cut key could not fit properly and cause future problems.

It is important that you select a professional who will cut your spare key with high-end knives and ensure the correct positioning of chip. The blades that are cheaper can produce poorer quality cuts that result in the key wearing out faster and possibly even break inside the lock. Also, it is important to ensure that the key is made from the correct metal. Some websites sell cheap sidewinder chips that could harm the key cutting machine or cause the key to malfunction.

If your car is equipped with a transponder or smart key, it will have to be programmed after the key cutting process. These types of keys utilize encryption to ensure only the correct key is used to start the vehicle. If you use a service that duplicates keys at home, you may be unable to program the key correctly.

For these kinds of vehicles it is recommended you have an extra key in order to avoid losing the original key or locking it inside the car. This is especially true when your car is shared with other family members. A spare car key allows each family member to have their own key chain or lanyard which will prevent accidental lockouts and theft of the key.

Examine your warranty coverage basics and roadside assistance. This service may save you money if it is covered. A spare key can be useful if you have run out of fuel or your vehicle's battery fails to. This will allow you to return to the road quickly and without waiting for a tow truck or be stuck outside in the frigid winter.