How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, especially if it is the only one you have. The possession of duplicate keys is the best protection against expensive replacements.
Cutting your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. There aren't all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.
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 vehicle or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks entirely. This is a quicker, cheaper and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in design and function which makes it impossible for anyone else to unlock your property with an imitation.
A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can have a copy made by trained workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks are equipped with keys that are blank and identical to your current key. They also can make copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as keys for car keys or home security.
The most recent technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that must be programmed to work correctly. These additional components, like a transponder chip on vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into and require specialized equipment to duplicate correctly.
If you require an extra key, cutting it is a fast and simple way to get one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able provide assistance in case of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to your home or car, or any other safe place if a person has locked themselves outside.
A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky surface of the piece of clear tape. This creates an impression. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make a replica of the original exactly the same size and shape.
A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to insert into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using a punch machine, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade onto the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. These machines can be electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.
A newer form of key cutting technique is being used in some locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to get the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that look like 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 to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. However it isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the correct key-cutting machine for you need your keys cut. There are a variety of types however, some elements that affect a person's choice include the type of key they need and whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality of their work and how accurate it is.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of one key to cut a new one. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual, but it can also be done using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to put the key's notch. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are also a number of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These tools can be costly however they also make it possible to offer an array of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are typically less expensive than buying individual tools, and can be an excellent investment for someone looking to start a business cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be simple to use. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad variety of keys and offers step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. Ilco states that the machine has an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that show its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It is equipped with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chip that is programmed to your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It's always a good idea to have a spare key so that you can utilize it in the case of a lockout.
If you're considering having your car keys cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear identical, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making a spare car key, and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making keys for replacement however, it can be risky when the key isn't correctly constructed or the key blank isn't high-quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can cut an optical groove on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
key car cutting use a special machine to duplicate your car key using the correct blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a variety of transponder keys so you can be sure to get the right one for your car. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if you require it, and for a fraction of the cost the cost you would pay at a dealer.