25 Surprising Facts About 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. Duplicate keys are a great 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. Not all hardware or locksmith stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this happens, it can be an extremely stressful day, making it impossible to gain access to your car or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks entirely. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient process.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks usually use keys that have the same style as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more intricate keys like keys for home or car security.
The latest technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key-by-photo, and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components such as the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
If you require a spare, key cutting is a fast and simple method to obtain one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. There are many locksmiths that are not equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a dedicated team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to handle various locking mechanisms and locks. You should also seek out locksmiths who provide emergency services. They can help you out in the event of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a home, car, or other secure location if someone has locked themselves out.
To create a duplicate key, a professional may employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the tip of the key until it turns black, and then pressing it against the sticky side an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an impression. This imprint can be used by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original that is identical to its size and shape.
A pattern grinder is a different common method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows you to insert the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the requirement for a specialist to be present.
Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is used in a few places. Instead of grinding down keys to get the correct dimensions, a laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that resemble an asymmetrical blade which offers more protection against bump keys and other kinds of tryout keys.
A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or lock. However it isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many different types however, some elements that affect a person's choice include the type of key they require and whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much money they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the shape of one key to cut another one. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from the database.
There are a few tools which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These are costly, but can offer a greater variety of services.
Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine as well as the tools required to operate it. These kits are often less expensive than purchasing the tools individually and are an excellent investment for those looking to start an operation that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and allows users to access many keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray that is integrated as well as LED lights that show its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys, including dimple keys. It is equipped with clamps that can be used to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. It's always a good idea to have an extra key in case you can utilize it in the situation of an emergency lockout.
When you choose to have your car key cut it's crucial to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require can save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, involves using a key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods, but it can be risky when the key isn't created correctly or the key is not of good quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can make an optical groove on both sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective at preventing theft than standard 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 then use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a variety of transponder keys, so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. car key cutting price can help you program the key to your car, if you require it, and at a fraction of price as you would at a dealer.