15 Trends To Watch In The New Year Car Key Cut
How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially when you lose the only one. Having duplicate keys is the best protection against expensive replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. Not all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some moment, and when that happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to get into your home or car. The majority of people prefer having extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more practical.
Key cutting is the process of creating a key using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer a key-cutting station where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks typically use a key blank that has the same style as your current key, however, they also can make copies of more elaborate keys like car or home security keys.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing costs and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, which requires specific equipment.
Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain an extra key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional assistance when you require one. Not all locksmiths are created to be the same, so you must choose a reputable firm with a dedicated team of skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training in dealing with different locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to find locksmiths that offer emergency services, since they can assist in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. A spare key can also be used if someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other safe place because it allows the person to gain entry without the assistance of a locksmith.
To create a duplicate key, a professional may either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it is black and pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This leaves an imprint. car key cut and program near me can be used by a key cutter to make a replica of the original identical in size and shape.
A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a flat surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This means that there is no need for an expert.
Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is utilized in certain places. 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 resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys.
A key cutting service is also able to design 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 more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are many different types, but some factors that can affect a person's choice include the type of key they need and whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric machine, and how much money they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut a new one. This can be done manually or with a manual machine but it can also be done with a laser or code. These machines will typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are a few tools that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They can reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These are costly, however they can provide a wider range of services.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and can be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be easy to use. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access various keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that indicate its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as as Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that is programmed to your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you'll have something to turn to in the event that you're stuck.
It's crucial to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, duplication is the act of copying a key. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, requires a key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating keys for replacement, but it can be risky when the key isn't correctly constructed or the key blank isn't high-quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop your key from functioning.
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 allow it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will select the correct key blank for your year, make and model, and then utilize a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys so you're sure to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if you require it and at a fraction as the cost you would pay at dealers.