What Are The Biggest "Myths" About Car Key Cut Could Be A Lie
How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.
Cutting your car keys at a car repair shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one point, and when this happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, making it impossible to gain access to your home or car. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks entirely. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient process.
Key cutting is the process of creating the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in form 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 worker. These kiosks use keys that are blank and the same as your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complex designs, like car keys or home security keys.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the process of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to function properly. These additional components, like a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require specialized equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional assistance when you require one. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have completed rigorous training to handle different locking mechanisms and locks. You should also seek out a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able to assist you in the event of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to the original keys and decrease the overall wear and tear. A spare key can also be used if someone is locked out of their car, home or other secure area since it will allow them to gain entry without requiring the services of a locksmith.
To create a duplicate key, a professional may employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side of a piece clear tape. This creates an impression. car keys cut can be utilized by a key cutter to make a replica of the original identical in size and shape.
Another method is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This allows you to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then presses a blade to the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys that is utilized in specific areas. Instead of grinding down the keys to create the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other types.
Key cutting services can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the right key-cutting machine when someone needs their keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. A few factors that could affect a person's choice include the size and type of the key, whether they want an electric or automatic machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the key's notch. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from a database.
There are a few tools that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks at the same time. These tools can be costly however they also enable locksmiths to provide more services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are typically less expensive than buying individual tools and can be an excellent investment for those who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be easy to use. The removable 10-inch touchscreen allows users to access various keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to indicate status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It can be equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which must be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. It is a good idea to purchase an extra key, so you have something to go to if you find yourself stuck.
If you decide to have your car key cut it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the type of service you require will save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods for making an alternative car key, but it can be risky when the key isn't correctly made or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop working.
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 inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. These are often called sidewinder keys and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive because they're more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys so you'll be able to find the correct one for your car. We can also help you program it to your vehicle should you require it, for only a fraction of the price that you would pay at a dealership.