"The Ultimate Cheat Sheet" On 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 defense against expensive replacements.
Cutting automotive key cutting at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one moment, and when that occurs, it can cause an extremely stressful day, making it impossible to gain access to your home or car. A majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a quicker, cheaper and more convenient process.
Key cutting is a technique that involves duplicating an original key onto an uncut key, using a specialised machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in shape and function and makes it impossible for anyone else to unlock your home using an unauthentic.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks are equipped with keys that are blank and the same as your existing key. They also can make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is called key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services work by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost involved.
Modern electronic keys, like those used to control car lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that must be programmed to function properly. These additional components, like the transponder chip found in car keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require specialized equipment to duplicate correctly.
If you require a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick way to get one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. Not all locksmiths are to be the same, so you must look for a reputable company with a committed team of experts who have completed rigorous training to deal with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to find a locksmith that offers emergency services as they will be able to help in the event of an accidental 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 could be used to gain access to your home or vehicle, or another safe place if a person has locked themselves outside.
To make a duplicate key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This leaves an imprint. A key cutter can then utilize this imprint to cut away, making a copy that is identical in size and shape to the original.
A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a flat surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes the key easier to fit into locks. A key can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The device then pushes an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual 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, which is employed in certain areas. Instead of grinding down keys to get the proper dimensions the laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that resemble the serrated blades which offers more protection against bump keys and other types of tryout keys.
A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. However it cannot create replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for dealerships and automobile 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 a variety of types however, some elements that could influence a person's decision include the kind of key they require, whether or not they want to use an automated or electric machine, and how much money they'd like to spend. The machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut a new one. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done with a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the key's notch. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from a database.
There are a few tools that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks at the same time. They can be expensive however they can allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and tools required to operate it. These kits are often less expensive than buying individual tools and are an excellent investment for those looking to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and allows users to access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. It also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to indicate 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 to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are much more than just a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they get stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key in case you can use it in the situation of an emergency lockout.
It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making a spare car key, and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is more affordable than others, but can be risky when the key isn't created properly or the key is not of good quality. Insufficiently-cut key can damage the lock and stop the key from working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specifically designed. These machines can cut a laser groove on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective at preventing theft than normal keys. These keys are also more expensive since they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will choose the right key blank for your year, model and model, and then utilize a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car in case you need to, at only a fraction of the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.