Car Key Cut: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly in the event that you lose only one. Having duplicate keys is the best protection against expensive replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. But not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some point, and when this occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to gain access to your home or car. The majority of people prefer to have additional keys made instead of changing their locks. This is faster and less expensive, as well as more convenient.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer an area for cutting keys where you can get a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks make use of a blank key that is exactly like your existing key. They also can make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, such as car keys or home security keys.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely duplicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. It's called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip in car keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require specific equipment.
Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of experts who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also essential to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, as they will be able to assist in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys, which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that one is locked out of their home, car or any other safe place as it can allow them to gain access without the assistance of a locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional could employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. Key cutters can use this imprint to cut around, making a copy that is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.
A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a flat surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. A device then forces a blade to the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. These machines can be manual or electric, and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the requirement for a specialist to be present.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the side of the key. The keys look like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys.
Key cutting services are also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. However the service cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is often reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many different types however, some elements that could influence a person's choice are the kind of key they require as well as whether or not they prefer to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual however, it could also be done with a code or laser machine. These machines will typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are a variety of machines that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These are costly, however, they offer a wider range of services.
Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are often cheaper than purchasing individual tools, and can be an excellent investment for those planning to launch an operation that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to indicate status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It also comes with optional clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern keys for cars are more than simply a piece of metal. They have transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. This is why it's always a good idea to have a spare key, so you have something to go to in the event that you're stuck.
It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. Though they might seem similar, key cutting is creating a brand new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing the type of service you require will save you time and money over the long run.
local key cutting is the more traditional way of making an extra car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it is risky if the key isn't made properly or the blank is of poor quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can make a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. They are commonly called sidewinder keys and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys since they are more complex and harder to find at hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will select the correct key blank for your year, model and model, and then utilize a special cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if required, and at a fraction as the cost you would pay at dealers.