14 Cartoons On Key Cutting Car That'll Brighten Your Day 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, especially when you must pay a large amount at the local car dealership. 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 is an art form that offers security, convenience and peace of mind to car owners. It involves the use of sophisticated machinery for accurate shaping of keys to ensure that they work smoothly and do not harm the ignition. This service is crucial when you lose your keys or need to have a spare key made. The process takes only a few moments and can save you from having to call a professional locksmith in the situation of a lockout.

The process of key cutting varies depending on the type of key you need and the level of sophistication of the locks. Keys with transponders and intelligent ones, for example, use encryption to stop unauthorized reuse of the car key. Additionally they require specific programming and configuration for proper operation. When you are re-keying locks or you are trying to make an entirely new key from an old one that does not have the correct code, the key duplication process can be more difficult.

Many people duplicate their keys to have a spare. This is particularly relevant when they move to a new home or want to give copies of the key to family and friends. Before get a car key cut decide to try this at home, it is important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. It is essential to use the correct machine and the correct techniques for each to ensure a quality key is produced.

The process of copying your keys is a pain and if done improperly it could result in flawed copies that won't fit correctly or even allow you to open the lock. Bring your keys that are working to a store offering key duplication to ensure that your keys are copied correctly. An associate can then match it with the blank of your key, and trace its contours with a precise key-cutting machine on site.

You can also avoid paying high prices for keys that are replacement at a dealer by taking your keys to a key-duplication shop. Additionally you can avail of discounts provided by shops that allow customers to bring in their own keys to be duplicated.

Keys Types

There are a variety of keys on the market. Each has its own unique combination of convenience and security. Cylinder keys, for instance are a simple lock that is widely used in both residential and commercial settings Mortice keys are an essential part of traditional structures and come with more security features. Similar to tubular keys, tubular keys feature an elongated shaft that fits into the tubular pin tumbler lock often used to secure bicycles and sheds.

In addition to a variety of cutting techniques, modern keys can also be programmed to be compatible with specific vehicle systems. This is usually carried out at the dealership or by a licensed locksmith who has access to the correct key programming equipment.

For example, some of the most well-known modern car keys are shaped like remotes and do not need to be turned in order to start the vehicle. Smart keys contain a microchip that is coded for the specific model and make of car they work with. They can only be programmed and cut by locksmiths who are member of Associated Locksmiths of America.

It is always advisable to have a spare key for your car especially if you reside in a region with high crime rates. The reason is that car theft is now a common and easy crime. If you have lost your keys, it's best to get them replaced as quickly as you can, so that you be back on the road and not waste time searching for your vehicle.

While a basic key can be cut using a standard machine, more advanced keys require specialized tools and a trained technician to duplicate them correctly. Laser cut keys for instance, have a pattern that consists of long valleys instead of the ridges typical to older keys. They are also more difficult to duplicate due to their intricate shape.

Another type of key that requires the expertise of a professional to cut is the transponder key. They are a standard feature of newer cars and can only be duplicated by a licensed locksmith with the right programming equipment. This is because they have a microchip in them that must be programmed into the vehicle in order for it to begin.

Tools used

If you want to perform key cutting professionally, you'll need a variety of tools. get a car key cut include a key duplication machine, that cuts and duplicates standard keys as also automotive keys. You'll require a key decoder that gives measurements for Kwiksets, Weslocks and Schlages, as well as master keys. Also, you'll need a lock pick set and long reach tools to unlock vehicles. These tools are used to manipulate pins within a lock cylinder to allow the door to be opened without damaging the lock.

There are many different key cutting machines. Each is designed to work with a specific kind of lock. A manual key cutter requires you to manually move the key through the tracing and cutter wheels and is suitable for locksmiths who are new or who are only required to cut a couple of keys at one 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 is more expensive than a manual machine. The Silca 040 automated machine is the best currently available.

Another essential tool is a vice, which is needed to hold the key while it's being shaped. A large vise is well for a car, while smaller vises will work for a van. A quality vise will last for a long time, and it will be much easier to keep your key in place while filing.

Other tools you might be considering for your toolbox include the padlock shim that is used to break up padlocks by placing an incredibly thin piece of metal around the shackle. You'll also need locks with picks and a tubular pick, which are used to manipulate the pins in the key hole of locks. These tools are especially helpful for picking locks that are difficult to open with the standard key such as those that are that are found in cars and commercial buildings.

Finally, a broken key extractor will allow you to take out a broken piece of the key that is jammed in the key hole. This is a great tool to have, and it can be found in the basic kit for opening cars or buy it on its own.

Safety

It's more than just a simple metal shaping. It's an art form that gives security, comfort and peace of mind to the owner. This process requires special equipment and software. It should be completed by a reputable locksmith or car dealership. A key cut incorrectly could cause damage to the lock resulting in cost-plus expenses for replacement or repair. A key that is not cut correctly could also cause future problems as it may not fit properly.

It is crucial to select a professional to cut your spare key using an excellent knife and ensure proper placement of the chip. Cheaper blades often result in poor quality cuts, which can cause the key to wear faster and possibly break inside the lock cylinder. Also, it is essential to make sure that the key is made from the correct metal type. Some online sites sell low-quality sidewinder chips that could cause damage to the key cutting machine or cause the key to malfunction.


If your vehicle has a transponder or smart key, it will have to be programmed following the key cutting process. These keys use encryption so that only the correct key is able to start the car. If you decide to utilize a home key duplication service, they may not be able to program the new key correctly.

For these types of vehicles it is recommended you have an extra key to ensure that you don't lose the original key or locking it inside the car. This is especially important when you share your car with family members. A spare key allows everyone in the family their own lanyard, which prevents accidental lockouts or theft of your car key.

It's recommended to review your basic warranty or insurance policy, or roadside assistance coverage. Depending on the coverage, this kind of service could save you money on key duplicate and replacement. A spare key can be useful in the event that you have run out of fuel or your vehicle's battery dies. This will allow you to return to the road in a hurry without waiting for a tow truck, or be trapped in the frigid winter.