It's The Ugly Truth About Car Key Cut
How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid 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 or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
car key cutting and programming near me loses their keys at some time. This can be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to get into your car or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than change their locks entirely. This is a quicker, cheaper and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is the process of creating keys using a specific machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting station where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks usually use keys that have the identical design as your current key, but they also can make copies of more elaborate keys such as keys for home or car security.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is known as key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points have additional components which must be programmed to work correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.
Key cutting is the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but you should always seek professional assistance when you require it. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find locksmiths who offer 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 wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a home or car, or any other secure location if someone is locked out.
A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate keys. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This leaves an impression. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make a copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. The machines can be either manual or electric, and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys, which is employed in a few areas. Instead of grinding keys down to the right dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to the serrated blades which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other types of tryout keys.
A key cutting service may create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a myriad of models however, some elements that could influence a person's choice are the type of key they require, whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric device, and the much they are willing to spend. The machine they choose will also influence the quality and precision of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut another one. This can be done manually or with a manual machine. It could also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines will typically need 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 several machines that cut both cylinder and mortice locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These machines are expensive, however they can provide a wider range of services.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are usually less expensive than buying individual tools and are an excellent investment for those planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen is removable and allows users to access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys, including dimple keys. It is equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that is programmed to your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep a spare key so that you can utilize it in the situation of a lockout.
If you decide to have your car key cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional way of making a spare car key, and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods for making keys for replacement however, it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well made or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specifically designed. These machines can make an optical groove on both flat sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way while still functioning. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective at preventing theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys since they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use a special machine to duplicate your car key by using the correct blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you are sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can also help you programme it to your car should you require it, for less than the price that you would pay at a dealership.
