The Three Greatest Moments In Car Key Cut History
How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are a great method to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some point. This could be a major hassle as you are unable to access your car or home. Most people prefer to have extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is faster and less expensive, as well as more practical.
Key cutting is a technique that involves replicating an original key on the blank key by using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide 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 use an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complex designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components, such as 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 integrate into and require special equipment to duplicate properly.
When you need an extra key, cutting it is a fast and simple method to obtain one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should select a reputable company with a staff of professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to find locksmiths that offer emergency services as they'll be able to assist in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys, which can protect the original keys and decrease overall wear and tear. A spare key can also be used in the event that one is locked out of their home, car or any other safe place as it can allow them to gain entry without the need for locksmith.
A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. The tracing method is 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. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut away creating a copy that is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.
A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It grinds 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 fit into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with punch machines, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade onto the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. These machines can either 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.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to an asymmetrical blade which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of keys for tryouts.
Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. The service cannot create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision are the type and size of the key, whether they want an automatic or electric machine, and how much they want spend. The machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the profile of one key to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine. It could also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to put the notch on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from a database.
There are a variety of machines available that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These machines can be expensive however they can enable locksmiths to provide a wider range of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a set that contains the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than buying the tools individually and are an excellent investment for those who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access many keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to indicate status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It also comes with clamps that can be used to handle flat household and Tibbe keys as well for cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your car and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key in case you can access it in the event of a lockout.
If you decide to have your car key cut , it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making a spare car key, and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods, 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 harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can make an optical groove on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder in either way while still functioning. These are often called sidewinder keys and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will select the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then utilize a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a broad selection of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even assist you to connect it to your car if necessary, at less than the price that you would pay at the dealership.