15 Of The Most Popular Car Key Cut Bloggers You Should Follow
How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. A backup key is the best way to avoid expensive replacements.
Having your car key cut at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some point. This could be a huge inconvenience since you're unable to get into your car or home. The majority of people prefer having 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 duplicating keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can have a copy made by trained employees within a matter of minutes. These kiosks are equipped with an uncut key that is the same as your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complicated designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
The most recent 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. This is referred to as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services work by significantly reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to work correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip in car keys and the embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, requiring specific equipment.
When you need an extra key, cutting it is a simple and quick method of getting one. However you should always seek advice from an expert. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should look for a reputable company with a dedicated team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to handle different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to locate a locksmith that offers emergency services, since they can provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used if someone is locked out of their car, home or any other secure location as it can allow them to gain access without the need for locksmith.
A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate keys. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an imprint. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create a copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.
Another option is to use a pattern grinder, that takes the original key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This makes it easier to insert into locks. Keys can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine forces a blade onto the key and then cuts each notch at the required depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys. This means that there is no need for a specialist.
Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting keys, which is employed in specific areas. Instead of grinding the keys down to the right dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to the serrated blades which offers more protection against bump keys and other types of keys for tryouts.
A key cutting service may also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However it cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's important to find 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, whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much they are willing to spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work and how accurate it is.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It could also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to inform 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 a database.
There are also a range of machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters and can save a locksmith time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These machines can be expensive however they also make it possible to offer 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 typically cheaper than buying the tools individually and are a great option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.
laser key cutting is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate the its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It is a good idea to have a spare key, so you have something to turn to in the event that you find yourself in a pinch.
It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making a replacement car key however it could be risky when the key isn't correctly made or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can cause damage to 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 make a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in protecting against theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then utilize a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, which means you'll be able that you get the correct one for your car. We can even assist you to programme it to your car should you require it, for less than the price that you would pay at a dealership.