7 Simple Changes That'll Make The Biggest Difference In Your Car Key Cut
How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
key car cutting loses keys at some time, and when this occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, causing you to be unable to gain access to your home or car. Most people prefer to have extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is a method that involves copying an original key onto the blank key using a specialised machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer a key-cutting station where you can get a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks use a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as car keys or home security keys.
The latest technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the way key duplication services work by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a team of experts who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. You should also look for locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another safe place if a person is locked out.
A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate keys. The tracing method involves heating the tip of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side of an uncut piece of tape. This creates an imprint. This impression can be utilized by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.
Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This allows the key to insert into locks. A key can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The device forces a blade on the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. The machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys. This eliminates the need for an expert.
A newer form of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down keys to get the correct dimensions, a laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to an asymmetrical blade which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of keys for tryouts.
A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs that have an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However it isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the right key-cutting machine when a person needs their keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision are the size and type of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual, but it can also be done using a laser or code. These machines will typically require a code that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are also a number of machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These machines can be expensive however they can allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically cheaper than buying tools on their own and can be a good option for those looking to venture into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen allows users to access a variety of keys, and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that indicate its status. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It is also equipped with clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as being cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key so that you can access it in the event of a lockout.
It is important to understand the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they might appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying a key. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional way of making a spare car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is more affordable than other options, but it can be risky when the key is not made properly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause the key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These are often called sidewinder keys and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key using the right blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a variety of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car if required, and at a fraction of price as you would at dealers.