7 Little Changes That'll Make A Big Difference With Your Car Key Cut
How to Get a Car Key Cut Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially in the event that you lose only one. A backup key is the best protection against costly replacements. Having your car key cut at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming. What is Key Cutting? Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this occurs, it could be an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to get into your home or car. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This process is quicker and less expensive, as well as more convenient. Key cutting is the process of creating the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in form and function. Many hardware stores and big box stores provide an area for cutting keys where you can get a copy made in minutes by a trained worker. The kiosks typically make use of keys that have the same style as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more complicated keys such as keys for home or car security. The latest technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is called key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services function by drastically reducing the time and cost involved. 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 other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes, communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require special equipment to duplicate correctly. Key cutting can be a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional help when you need one. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training 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 accident 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 tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a house, car, or other safe place if a person is locked out. Professionals can employ either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter will utilize this imprint to cut around the original key, creating a copy which is exactly the same in shape and size to the original. A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes the key easier to insert into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines. A punch machine takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The device then pushes a blade to the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either manual or electric and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the requirement for a specialist to be present. get car key cut of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to create the right dimensions, a laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The keys look like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other types. Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships. Key Cutting Equipment When a person gets their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision are the size and style of the key, whether they want an automatic or electric machine, and how much they want spend. The machine they choose can also influence the quality of their work as well as how precise it is. The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the profile of one key to cut a new one. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It could also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to place 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 that are able to cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks simultaneously. They are expensive but can offer a greater range of services. A kit that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and are an excellent investment for anyone who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys. Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen is removable and allows users to access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It also comes with clamps that can be used to handle flat household and Tibbe keys as well being cruciform keys. Key Cutting Costs Modern keys for cars are more just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are stolen or lost. It is a good idea to have an extra key, so you have something to turn to if you're stuck. If you decide to have your car keys cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying a key. Knowing the service you require will save your 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 the key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of making a replacement car key however it could be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut key can cause damage to the lock and prevent your key from working. Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specially designed. These machines can cut laser grooves on both flat sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing either way, and still function. These are commonly called sidewinder keys and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores. AutoZone's associates 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 keys, so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car if necessary, at a fraction of the cost that you would spend at an auto dealer.