5 Laws That Anyone Working In Car Key Cut Should Know
How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some time. This can be a huge inconvenience because you're unable get into your car or home. A majority of people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a quicker and less expensive process.
Key cutting is a process that involves replicating an original key onto an uncut key, using a specialised machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original in both design and function and makes it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your home using an imitation.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks are equipped with an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complex designs, such as home security or car keys.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the key's unique markings onto a blank piece of. This is known as 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 which must be programmed to work correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip that is found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring specialised equipment.
Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional help when you need one. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a staff of professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services as they will be able to 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 decreases wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used if one is locked out of their car, home or any other safe place since it will allow them to gain entry without requiring the services of a locksmith.
To create a duplicate key, a professional could choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter will utilize this imprint to cut away creating a copy that is identical 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 smooth surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to insert into locks. In addition, a key can be cut with a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine applies an edge onto the key and then cuts each notch at the required depth. These machines are either manual or electric, and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a newer technique for cutting keys that is utilized in specific areas. Instead of grinding down keys to make the right dimensions, a laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps and other kinds of keys.
A key cutting service may 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 is not able to create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the correct key-cutting machine for someone needs their keys cut. There are a variety of types and some of the factors that could affect a person's choice include the type of key they require, whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric machine and how much money they want to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the outline of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual but it can be accomplished using a laser or code. These machines will typically require codes that tell the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are also a number of machines available that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They can save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These are costly, but can offer a greater variety of services.
Another option is to purchase a kit that includes both the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and are an excellent investment for someone looking to start a business cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access a variety of keys, and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys that include dimples. It is able to be fitted with optional clamps to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
cost to get a key cut g28carkeys Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. They are more costly to replace in the event they are lost or taken. It's always recommended to keep a spare key so that you can use it in the situation of a lockout.
If you decide to have your car key cut it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, key cutting is making a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it could be risky if the key isn't created correctly or the key is not of good quality. Keys that are cut improperly can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specifically designed. These machines can cut laser grooves on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective at stopping theft than regular keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will select the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a variety of transponder key options which means you're certain to find the right one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if you require it, and at a fraction of much as you would pay at dealers.