10 Quick Tips About Car Key Cut
How to Get a car key cutting service Key Cut
It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best protection against expensive replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some point. This could be a major hassle since you're unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. The majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is a process that involves replicating the original key onto a blank key, with a specially-designed machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in both form and function, making it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your home using an imitation.
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 skilled worker. These kiosks are equipped with an uncut key that is the same as your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complicated designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
The most advanced technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. It's called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car key cut lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into and require specialized equipment to duplicate properly.
When you need a spare key, cutting is a fast and simple method to obtain one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. There are many locksmiths that are not equally, so look for a reputable company with a team of experts who have completed rigorous training to handle different locking mechanisms and locks. You should also look for locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a home or car, or any other secure location if someone is locked out.
A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate keys. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This creates an imprint. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is identical in size and shape to the original.
Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the key cutting open now and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches are gone from the other end. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The device then pushes a blade to the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. These machines are manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the need for an expert.
A newer form of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the side of the key. The keys resemble a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types.
A key cutting service can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, that have an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However it cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming that is often reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it is important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the size and style of the key, if they want an electric or automatic machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.
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 by hand or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the key's notch. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a variety of machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These machines are expensive, however they can provide a wider range of services.
Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are often less expensive than buying individual tools separately and can be an excellent investment for someone who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable lets users access a wide range of keys and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that indicate its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys that include dimple keys. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key so that you can utilize it in the case of an emergency lockout.
If you decide to have your car keys cut, it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, requires an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is cheaper than other options, but it can be risky when the key isn't made properly or the key is not of good quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can cut a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder either way. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder key cutting and are more effective at preventing theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive since they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use a special machine to duplicate your car key using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys so you can be sure that you get the correct one for your car. We can even assist you to connect it to your car should you require it, for only a fraction of the price that you would spend at a dealership.
