25 Unexpected Facts About Car Key Cut
How to Get a Car Key Cut
It is costly to replace the keys to your car, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great option to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This can be a huge inconvenience because you're unable get into your vehicle or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks completely. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is the process of creating a key using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in both design and function, making it impossible for someone else to unlock your property using an imitation.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide a key-cutting station where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks make use of a blank key that is identical to your current key. They also can make copies of keys with more complex designs, like home security or car keys.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. This is known as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services operate by significantly reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.
Key cutting is a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional assistance when you require one. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education to deal with various locks and locking systems. You should also look for a locksmith who offers emergency services. They can help you out in the event of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another secure location if someone is locked out.
Professionals can employ either the punching or tracing method to duplicate keys. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black, and then pressing it against the sticky surface of an uncut piece of tape. This creates an impression. A key cutter can then utilize this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is the same shape and size to the original.
Another method is to employ a pattern grinder that takes the original key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches disappear from the other end. This allows you to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The device forces an edge onto the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. These machines can either be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This reduces the need for an expert.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to create the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys.
A key cutting service can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is normally 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 many different types and some of the factors that could influence a person's choice are the kind of key they require, whether or not they want to use an automated or electric machine, and how much money they'd like to spend. The machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the contour of one key to cut another one. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine however, it could also be done using a laser or code. 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 a database.
There are also a range of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters and can save a locksmith time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These machines can be expensive, but they can also allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.
Another option is to purchase a kit that includes both the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than buying individual tools and can be an excellent investment for those who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access a variety of keys, and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has a built-in accessory tray and LED lights that indicate the status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys that include dimple keys. It is also equipped with clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as as Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece made of metal. They have transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your car, and they require specialized cutting machinery. They are more costly to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in a spare key, so you have something to go to if you find yourself in a bind.
When you choose to have your car keys cut, it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is less expensive than other options, but it could be risky if the key isn't created properly or the key is not of good quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can make an optical groove on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder either way. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in stopping theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, model, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, so you can be sure that you get the correct one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if you require it and at a fraction as much as you would pay at dealers.