7 Small Changes You Can Make That'll Make The Biggest Difference In Your Car Key Cut
How to Get a Car Key Cut
It is costly to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. A backup key 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. However, not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This could be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to get into your car or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This process is quicker and less expensive, as well as more practical.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide an area for cutting keys where you can have a copy made in minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks usually use keys that have the identical design as your current key, but they also can make copies of more intricate keys such as keys for home or car security.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank piece of. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the process of key duplication by reducing costs and time.
Modern electronic keys, such as keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components, like the transponder chip found in car keys, or a microchip embedded in a few home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require specialized equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting can be the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but you should always seek professional help when you need one. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. You should also look for locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able to assist you in the event of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys, which can protect original keys and reduce the overall wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a home, car, or other secure location if someone has locked themselves out.
To duplicate a key, a professional could employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an impression. This impression can be utilized by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.
Another option is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines. A punch machine is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. how much to get a car key cut forces a blade onto the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys that is used in certain locations. Instead of grinding down keys to make the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to cut away material from the sides 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 test keys.
A key cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or lock. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is normally reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. The factors that can affect a person's choice include the size and type of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, and the amount they want spend. The type of machine they select can also impact the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the profile of one key to cut another one. This can be done manually 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 tell them where to place the notch on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from a database.
There are also a number of machines that are able to cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These tools can be costly, but they can also make it possible to offer an array of services to customers.
Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than buying individual tools separately, and can be an excellent investment for those planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen 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 an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to indicate status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys, including dimples. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as Cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can utilize it in the event of a lockout.
It's important to know the difference between duplication and cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem identical, duplication is the act of copying a key. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses the key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other options, but it is risky if the key isn't created properly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specialized. These machines can make an optical groove on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective at protecting against theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive since they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make and model, and then use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a variety of transponder keys, so you're sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car, if needed, and at a fraction of much as you would pay at the dealer.