7 Simple Changes That Will Make A Big Difference In Your Car Key Cut
How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. A backup key is the best defense against expensive replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some time. This could be a major inconvenience, because you're unable get into your vehicle or go to your home. The majority of people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This process is faster, cheaper, and more practical.
Key cutting is a process that involves replicating an original key onto a blank key, using a specialised machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide an area for cutting keys where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks typically use keys with the same style as your current key, but they can also make copies of more intricate keys such as keys for your car or home security.
The most recent technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the process of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip found in car keys and the embedded microchip found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.
If you require a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. There are many locksmiths that are not equal, and you should seek out a reputable business with a team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to handle different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services as they can provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which can protect original keys and reduce overall wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used in the event that someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or any other secure location because it allows them to gain entry without the need for locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional can either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it is black and pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. Key cutters can make use of this imprint to cut it away the original key, creating a copy which is the same size and shape to the original.
Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are gone on the other side. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Keys can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device forces a blade onto the key and cuts each notch at the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This reduces the need for an expert.
A newer form of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The keys look like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types.
A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However it cannot create replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for dealerships or automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right machine to cut keys when you need your keys cut. There are many different types, but some factors that influence a person's decision include the kind of key they require as well as whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they want to spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine but it can be accomplished using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines will typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are a variety of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. They can be expensive, but they can also enable locksmiths to provide a wider range of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are often cheaper than purchasing the tools individually, and can be an excellent investment for anyone looking to start an operation that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. The machine also has a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to indicate status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys, including dimple keys. It can be equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are lost or taken. It is a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you have something to turn to in the event that you're stuck.
If you're considering having your car key cut, it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem similar, key cutting is creating a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires the key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is more affordable than other methods, but it is risky if the key isn't created correctly or the key is not of good quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. places to get keys cut near me are also known as sidewinders and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, model, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a broad selection of transponder key options so you are sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even help you connect it to your car should you require it, for only a fraction of the price that you would spend at a dealership.