How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. Having duplicate keys is the best way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some time, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, causing you to be unable to gain access to your home or car. Most people prefer having extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of a key using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get copies made in just a few minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks typically use keys with the same style as your current key, however, they also can make copies of more elaborate keys, such as keys for your car or home security.
The most recent technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to work correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip in vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require special equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional assistance when you require one. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should seek out a reputable business with a dedicated team of experts who have completed rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to locate locksmiths that offer emergency services, since they can assist in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that one is locked out of their car, home or other secure area as it can allow the person to gain entry without requiring the services of a locksmith.
A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black, and then pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This leaves an imprint. Key cutters can make use of this imprint to cut away, making a copy that is the same size and shape to the original.
Another option is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This makes the key easier to fit into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The device forces an edge onto the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. These machines are either manual or electric and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is utilized in a few places. Instead of grinding keys to make the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps and other types of 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 vehicle or locks. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the correct key-cutting machine for someone needs their keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. Some factors that may affect a person's choice include the type and size of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they select can also affect the quality and precision of their work.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done manually or using a manual machine, but it can also be done using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code to tell 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 databases.
There are also a range of machines that are able to cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These tools can be costly, but they can also allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.
Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine as well as the tools required to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than buying the tools individually and could be a good investment for anyone who wishes to get into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a broad range of keys and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that show its state. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It is also equipped with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well for cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have an extra key in case you can access it in the event of a lockout.
When you choose to have your car key cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear similar, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing which one you require will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of making spare keys for cars, requires the key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is less expensive than others, but is risky if the key isn't created properly or the blank is of poor quality. Keys that are cut improperly can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specialized. These machines can create an optical groove on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These are often referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
key cut places near me will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We have a broad selection of transponder key options, so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can also help you connect it to your car in case you need to, at less than the price that you would spend at an auto dealer.