10 Tips For Getting The Most Value From Car Key Cut
How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective method to avoid costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some time, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, causing you to be unable to get into your home or car. Most people prefer to have additional keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient process.
Key cutting is a method that involves copying an original key onto a blank key, using a specialised machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original one in terms of design and function, making it impossible for someone else to access your property using a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have an area for cutting keys where you can get a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks use keys that are blank and identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as car keys or home security keys.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and it revolutionises the method of key duplication by reducing costs and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed properly. These additional components, like the transponder chip found in car keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes, communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into and require specialized equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting can be a great way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but you should always seek professional help when you need one. car key cutter should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a team of professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able to assist you in the event of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys, which can protect the original keys and decrease the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another safe location if someone is locked out.
To create a duplicate key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the tip of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky side of a piece clear tape. This leaves an impression. Key cutters can utilize this imprint to cut away, making a copy that is identical in shape and size to the original.
Another option is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the original key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with a punch machine, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The device then pushes a blade to the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. The machines can be either manual or electric, and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys, which is employed in a few locations. Instead of grinding the keys to the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the side of the key. The keys appear like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys.
A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However, the service isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many different types, but some factors that can influence a person's decision include the type of key they require as well as whether or not they prefer to use an automatic or electric device, and the much they are willing to spend. The machine they choose can also influence the quality of their work and how precise it is.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the profile of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done manually or with a manual machine, but it can also be done with a code or laser machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the notch on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are a few tools that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They help locksmiths save time by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. These machines can be expensive however they can enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are often less expensive than buying individual tools separately and can be an excellent investment for those planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access a variety of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that indicate its state. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as for cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which need to be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can use it in the case of a lockout.
It is important to understand the difference between duplication and cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they might appear identical, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require will help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating a spare car key, and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods for making keys for replacement however it could be risky in the event that the key isn't well made or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. A poorly cut key could cause damage to the lock and prevent your key from working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specialized. These machines can cut an optical groove on both flat sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder in either way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective at stopping theft than normal keys. These keys are also more expensive because they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car key by using the right blank for your vehicle's year and make. We have a broad selection of transponder keys, so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if needed, and at a fraction as price as you would at dealers.