Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. The possession of duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. Not all hardware or locksmith shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some point. This can be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. Most people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the key cut place is identical to the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks use an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complex designs, like car keys or home security keys.
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. This is called key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services function by drastically reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, come with additional components that must be programmed to work correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip in vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate correctly.
When you need a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method to obtain one. However you should always seek advice from an expert. There are many locksmiths that are not to be the same, so you must look for a reputable company with a committed team of experts who have been through rigorous training to deal with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They can provide assistance in case of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another safe place if a person has locked themselves outside.
Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be utilized by a key cutter to make a replica of the original identical to its size and shape.
A pattern grinder is a different popular 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 it easier to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The machine applies an edge onto the key and then cuts each notch at the required depth. These machines can either be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This eliminates the need for an expert.
Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is used in certain areas. Instead of grinding keys to make the right dimensions, a laser key cutting is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that resemble an asymmetrical blade, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of tryout keys.
Key cutting services can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that connects to the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. However the service cannot make replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many different types however, some elements that could affect a person's choice include the type of key they need as well as whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric machine and how much they are willing to spend. The machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of a key in order to cut another one. This can be done manually or with a manual machine. It can also be done using the laser cut car keys near me or a code machine. 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 that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These machines can be expensive, but they can also enable locksmiths to provide more services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and can be a good investment for someone who wants to start a business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access a variety of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that show its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It is equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They have transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your car and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It's always a good idea to have a spare key in case you can access it in the situation of a lockout.
It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require will help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of making a spare car key, and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of making keys for replacement, but it can be risky in the event that the key cut places near me isn't well made or the key blank isn't of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can 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 a laser groove on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective at protecting against theft than normal keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key blank for your year, make, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys so you can be sure that you get the correct one for your car. We can help you program the key to your new car key cut, if you require it, and at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealer.