Your Worst Nightmare About Car Key Cut Be Realized
How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, especially when it's the only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.
Cutting your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses keys at some time, and when this occurs, it could be an extremely stressful day, making it impossible to access your home or car. Most people choose to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This process is faster and cheaper as well as more efficient.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key using a special machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can have a copy created by skilled workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks usually use keys that have the same design as your existing key, but they can also cut copies of more elaborate keys such as keys for your car or home security.
The most advanced technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is referred to as key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services function by significantly reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to function properly. These additional components like the transponder chip found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require specific equipment.
When you need a spare, key cutting is a fast and simple way to get one. However you should always seek advice from an expert. Not all locksmiths are created equally, so seek out a reputable business with a team of skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training to deal with different locking mechanisms and locks. It is also important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services. They can provide assistance in case of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys which can protect original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and. A spare key can also be used when someone is locked out of their car, home or any other secure location because it allows them to gain entry without the need for a locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional could either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This leaves an impression. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut around the original key, creating a copy which is the same size and shape to the original.
A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows you to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The machine forces an edge onto the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. These machines are either manual or electric, and can be programmed to work with different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.
A newer form of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to get the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other types.
A key cutting service may also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, that have an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, and how much they want spend. The type of machine they select can also impact the quality of their work and how accurate it is.
Most key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create the new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine, but it can be accomplished using a code or laser machine. These machines typically require codes that tell the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a variety of machines available that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These tools can be costly however they can enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are often less expensive than buying individual tools separately, and can be an excellent investment for someone looking to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen is removable and allows users to access a variety of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to show the status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well being cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that require programming to work with your vehicle, and they require specialized cutting machinery. They are more costly to replace in the event they are lost or taken. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in a spare key, so you have something to go to in the event that you're in a bind.
It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing view it now require will save your time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating an extra car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making an alternative car key however, it can be risky if the key isn't properly constructed or the key blank isn't high-quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could damage the lock and stop your key from working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can cut an optical groove on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way while still functioning. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective at preventing theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, model and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, so you can be sure to get the right one for your vehicle. We can also help you programme it to your car if necessary, at only a fraction of the price that you would pay at the dealership.