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Introduction

If you’re looking for a reliable place to cut keys, Ace Hardware is a top choice.

Quick facts for those in a hurry:
Key types: House keys, car keys, chip keys, padlock keys, and more.
Services offered: Key cutting, programming car key fobs, and duplicating specialty keys.
Time taken: Standard keys in minutes, car key fobs may take up to an hour.

Ace Hardware specializes in key cutting, making it a convenient local spot to replace or duplicate your keys. Whether you need a spare house key, a car key fob, or a padlock key, the friendly team at Lowcountry Ace is there to help. Ace Hardware’s skilled technicians ensure your keys are made accurately, so you can get back to your day without a hitch.

For a detailed look at the different types of keys available and the services offered, keep reading. But remember, for a quick and easy key copy, Ace Hardware has you covered.

Infographic on Key Services at Ace Hardware - ace hardware key maker infographic mindmap-5-items

Types of Keys Available at Ace Hardware

When it comes to getting keys made, Ace Hardware offers a wide variety to meet your needs. Whether you need a spare house key, a car key with a chip, or even a specialized motorcycle key, they’ve got you covered. Here’s a breakdown of the types of keys you can get at Lowcountry Ace:

House Keys

House keys are the most common type of keys people need duplicated. Whether you need an extra key for a new roommate or just a spare for emergencies, Ace Hardware makes it simple and quick. They use high-quality blanks to ensure the duplicate is as good as the original.

Car Keys

From traditional car keys to more complex ones with electronic chips, Ace Hardware can handle them all. If you’ve ever lost a car key or just need a spare, you know how expensive it can be to get a replacement from a dealership. Ace offers a more affordable and reliable option for duplicating car keys. This includes those with transponder chips, which require specialized programming.

Chip Keys

Also known as transponder keys, chip keys are commonly used in newer car models. These keys enhance security by requiring a specific programmed chip to start the vehicle. At Ace Hardware, they don’t just cut the key; they also program the chip so it’s ready to use with your vehicle.

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Motorcycle Keys

Motorcycle keys are another specialty at Ace Hardware. Whether you’ve lost your key or need a spare, Ace can help. They have the right blanks and the expertise to make sure your new key works perfectly with your motorcycle.

Padlock Keys

Need an extra key for your padlock? No problem. Padlock keys are another type of key frequently duplicated at Ace Hardware. Whether it’s for a gym locker, a storage unit, or a backyard shed, having an extra key can come in handy.

Commercial Keys

Businesses often require specialized keys for security purposes. Ace Hardware offers commercial key duplication services to meet these needs. From office buildings to warehouses, they can duplicate a variety of commercial keys to ensure your business remains secure.

Key Cutting and Programming Services

When it comes to getting your keys made, Ace Hardware offers a variety of services to meet your needs. Whether you need a simple house key or a complex car key fob, they have the tools and expertise to help. Let’s break down the key cutting and programming services available.

Key Duplication

Key duplication is a straightforward process at Ace Hardware. Using a key duplicator machine, the original key is aligned with a blank key. The machine then cuts the blank key to match the original, ensuring a precise copy. This process is quick, often taking just a few minutes for standard keys.

Chip Key Programming

Modern cars often use keys with built-in transponder chips. These chip keys communicate with your car’s engine control unit to start the vehicle. Programming these keys involves a specific combination of codes and sequences. The helpful team at Lowcountry Ace uses specialized equipment to ensure your new chip key works perfectly with your car. This process can take up to an hour, depending on the complexity of the key.

Laser-Cut Keys

Laser-cut keys have thicker shanks and fewer grooves than traditional keys. These keys also come with built-in transponder chips that require programming. Ace Hardware has the advanced tools needed to cut and program these keys, ensuring they work seamlessly with your vehicle.

Key Fobs

Key fobs are essential for many modern vehicles, providing keyless entry and other features. Ace Hardware can duplicate and program key fobs using special machines designed to handle their built-in electronics. This ensures an exact match to your original fob, making sure it functions perfectly with your car’s system.

SmartKey Technology

SmartKey technology allows you to re-key your locks without removing them from the door. This is particularly useful for homeowners who want to change their locks quickly and easily. Ace Hardware offers SmartKey technology services, providing you with the flexibility to re-key your locks as needed.

For more details on how to get your keys made at Ace Hardware, continue reading. The next section will guide you through selecting key blanks, the key cutting process, and programming key fobs.

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How to Get Your Keys Made at Ace Hardware

Getting your keys made at Ace Hardware is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it.

Selecting Key Blanks

The first step in getting a key made is selecting the right key blank. Ace Hardware offers a wide variety of key blanks to fit different types of locks. Whether you need a house key, a car key, or a padlock key, the helpful team at Lowcountry Ace will assist you in finding the perfect match.

Common Key Types:
House Keys: Standard keys for home locks.
Car Keys: Including both traditional and chip keys.
Padlock Keys: For gym lockers, storage units, etc.

Key Cutting Process

Once you’ve selected the appropriate key blank, the key cutting process begins. Ace Hardware uses a key duplicator machine to ensure precise cuts.

Steps in Key Cutting:
1. Position Original and Blank Keys: The original key is placed on one side of the machine and the blank key on the other.
2. Align Both Keys: A key guide keeps both keys in alignment.
3. Cut the Key: The machine then cuts the blank key to match the original.

Key Cutting Machine - ace hardware key maker

This process usually takes just a few minutes for standard keys. For more complex keys, such as laser-cut or chip keys, it may take a bit longer.

Programming Key Fobs

For modern car keys, the process isn’t complete until the key fob is programmed. Key fobs contain transponder chips that communicate with your car’s ignition system. Ace Hardware has the equipment to program these chips, ensuring your new key fob works seamlessly with your vehicle.

Programming Steps:
1. Connect Programming Device: The technician uses a specialized device to sync the new fob with your car.
2. Enter Vehicle Details: Information like make, model, and year are entered.
3. Test the Key Fob: The new key fob is tested to ensure it functions correctly.

This process can take up to an hour, depending on the complexity of the key fob.

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Rubber Covers and Key Chains

After your key is cut and programmed, you might want to add some accessories. Ace Hardware offers a variety of rubber covers and key chains to personalize and protect your new keys.

Rubber Covers:
Protection: Helps protect your keys from wear and tear.
Identification: Different colors make it easy to identify your keys.

Key Chains:
Variety: From simple designs to decorative ones, there’s a key chain for everyone.
Convenience: Makes carrying multiple keys easier.

Key Chains - ace hardware key maker

Adding these accessories can enhance the functionality and appearance of your keys.

For more details on frequently asked questions about the Ace Hardware key maker, continue reading. The next section will answer common queries like whether Ace Hardware copies keys with chips and how long it takes to make a key.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ace Hardware Key Maker

Do they copy keys at Ace Hardware?

Yes, Ace Hardware copies keys. They offer key duplication services for a wide variety of blanks. This includes standard house keys, padlock keys, and commercial keys. The process is quick and straightforward, making it easy to get a duplicate key when you need one.

Does Ace Hardware make keys with chips in them?

Absolutely! Ace Hardware can duplicate automotive standard and chip keys. These chip keys, also known as transponder keys, require specialized equipment to program the chip inside the key. The helpful team at Lowcountry Ace can take care of this for you, ensuring your new key works seamlessly with your vehicle.

How long does it take for Ace to make a key?

The time it takes to make a key at Ace Hardware depends on the type of key:

  • Traditional keys: These can usually be cut in just a few minutes using a key duplicator machine.
  • Key fobs: Modern car keys like fobs have unique transponder chips that require programming. This process can take up to an hour.
  • Laser-cut keys: These are more complex and have built-in transponder chips. The cutting and programming process can also take around an hour.

No matter what type of key you need, Ace Hardware aims to provide quick and efficient service. Plus, they offer a money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with the key duplication.

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For more details on getting your keys made at Ace Hardware, visit your local Lowcountry Ace store.

Conclusion

At Lowcountry Ace, we’re more than just a hardware store; we’re a local partner committed to serving our community with a personal touch. Whether you need a simple house key or a complex automotive key fob, our team is here to help.

Local Convenience

One of the best parts about getting your keys made at Lowcountry Ace is the convenience. We’re open seven days a week, with extended hours to fit your busy schedule. No need to travel far or wait long; our efficient service ensures you get what you need quickly. Plus, we offer a wide variety of key blanks and accessories to choose from, making it easy to find exactly what you need.

The Helpful Team at Lowcountry Ace

Our staff is not just knowledgeable; they’re passionate about helping you. We take pride in offering personalized advice and quality service. Whether you’re duplicating a standard key or programming a chip key, our team is trained to handle it all. We even offer a money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with the key duplication.

We also engage deeply with our community. From supporting local Boy Scout troops to partnering with Texas Children’s Hospital, we’re committed to making a positive impact.

For more details on our products and services, visit our Lowcountry Ace Hardware page. Thank you for choosing Lowcountry Ace for all your key-making and hardware needs!

Lowcountry Ace Hardware: Your one-stop shop for home improvement. We offer quality products from trusted brands and expert advice from our experienced staff. Located on James Island, visit us for tools, hardware, fishing gear, power tools, building materials, grills & smokers, electrical and plumbing supplies, and more.

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Lowcountry Links

Pedro JesusPedro Jesus
19:33 07 Aug 24
Lauren CarterLauren Carter
18:39 11 Jul 24
Thad is the man— he saw our look of confusion in the paint aisle, immediately offered help, and even mixed the paint for us. So impressed by his customer service, we’ll definitely be back in the future!
Brad FlaigBrad Flaig
16:27 06 Jul 24
We love Ace! So helpful to not have to compete against the beach traffic or the Lowe’s traffic. This store is brand new, everyone is so helpful and the location is convenient
RestoraRestora
16:11 08 Apr 24
Lovely! Has everything I always need and great customer service.
Warren WeberWarren Weber
12:20 01 Apr 24
Nice selection of merchandise, people are friendly, reasonable prices
Kat TKat T
16:43 29 Mar 24
Frank approached is within seconds of entering into the plumbing aisle, he carried us throughout the store, getting the correct fittings to put us back in business. Thanks Frank!.
Rhonda JonesRhonda Jones
21:27 27 Mar 24
Steve Thad ,and Renee the customer service person were awesome and assisted me so much with my DIY project.If you want great advice and truly kind helpful staff please give them a chance to be of assistance. All the staff there were warm,friendly, and helpful. Thanks so much I appreciate 🙏 yall.
Joshua JohnsonJoshua Johnson
12:48 14 Oct 23
Manager wouldn’t return money to my credit card despite having the same card and rewards number (no receipt), so gift card only. I was told “I’d have to look it up in the computer, it’s tedious”After talking to other customers, I learned it’s routine to return with same credit card or rewards account.
C DC D
20:58 30 Mar 23
This location is the best. They are attentive and professional and always aim to please. We ordered a grill from them which was delivered quickly. There was a slight defect and they immediately rectified the situation and went above and beyond on multiple aspects of the transaction. Everyone from the GM to the delivery guys and everyone in between are always so great. We will continue to give them our business 💯!
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