The 3 Largest Disasters In Car Key Cut History
How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best option to avoid costly replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at a car repair shop like AutoZone can 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 one point, and when this occurs, it can cause an extremely stressful day, causing you to be unable to access your home or car. A majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than replacing their locks. This process is faster, cheaper, and more practical.
Key cutting is a technique that involves duplicating an original key on a blank key, with a specially-designed machine. cut car keys near me is done to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide an area for cutting keys where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks make use of keys that are blank and exactly like your existing key. They can also make copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as keys for car keys or home security.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the process of key duplication by reducing costs and time.
Modern electronic keys, like those used to control car lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed to function properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, which requires special 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. Not all locksmiths are created equally, so choose a reputable firm with a team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to find locksmiths that offer emergency services as they'll be able to assist in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another safe place if a person has locked themselves outside.
To duplicate a key, a professional may employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original identical in size and shape.
A pattern grinder is another popular method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface at one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using a punch machine, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The device forces a blade onto the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines can either be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys. This means that there is no need for a specialist.
Laser cutting is a newer technique for cutting keys, which is employed in specific locations. Instead of grinding the keys to create the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that look like the serrated blades, which provides more protection against bump keys and other types of keys for tryouts.
Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. The service can't make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. Some factors that may affect a person's choice include the size and type of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automated machine, and the amount they want spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the profile of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines will typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a few machines which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks at the same time. They are expensive but can offer a greater range of services.
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 could be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be easy to use. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large variety of keys and offers steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting the keys. The machine also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to indicate its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys that include dimple keys. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys, as being Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are much more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event they get lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to purchase an extra key so that you have something to go to in the event that you find yourself stuck.
It is important to understand the difference between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear identical, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of creating a spare car key, and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it could be risky if the key is not made correctly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specially designed. These machines can create laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing in any way and still function. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will select the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options, so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can even assist you to connect it to your car in case you need to, at only a fraction of the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.