What's The Job Market For Car Key Cut Professionals Like?
How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially when you lose the only one. The possession of duplicate keys is the best protection against costly replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at an automotive store like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this happens, it can be an extremely stressful day, making it impossible to gain access to your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient process.
Key cutting is a technique that involves copying the original key onto a blank key, by using a special machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate made by trained employees within a matter of minutes. The kiosks typically make use of a key blank that has the same design as your existing key, however, they can also make copies of more intricate keys such as keys for home or car security.
The latest technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is called key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services function by drastically reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed to work properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip that is found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.
If you require a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths that offer emergency services as they will be able to help in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a house, car, or other secure location if someone has locked themselves out.
To duplicate a key, a professional could either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side of an uncut piece of tape. This creates an impression. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original that is 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 smooth surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. A key 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. The machines can be 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 modern method of cutting keys that is utilized in certain places. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys.
A key cutting service is 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 lock. The service cannot make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision include the size and type of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual but it can be accomplished using a code or laser machine. These machines 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 databases.
There are also a range of machines that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These machines are expensive, however, they offer a wider range of services.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to venture into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide range of keys and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. The machine 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 including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.
car keys cut and programmed to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they get lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you have something to turn to in case you find yourself stuck.
It's crucial to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. Though they might seem similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need will save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating a spare car key and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is cheaper than other options, but it can be risky when the key is not made properly or the blank is of poor quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specialized. These machines can cut laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way while still functioning. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car key by using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We have a variety of transponder key options which means you're certain to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can also help you program it to your vehicle should you require it, for less than the price that you would pay at the dealership.