Car Key Cuts History History Of Car Key Cut

How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially in the event that you lose only one. Having duplicate keys is the best protection against costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses keys at some time, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to access your car or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is faster and cheaper as well as more convenient.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting station where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks are equipped with keys that are blank and identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys that have more intricate designs, such as home security or car keys.
The most advanced technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services function by significantly reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to function properly. These other components, such as a transponder chip in vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require special equipment to duplicate properly.
If you require an extra key, cutting it is a simple and quick way to get one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. There are many locksmiths that are not equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a dedicated team of experts who have completed rigorous training to deal with different locks and locking mechanisms. It's also important to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they will be able to provide assistance in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used when someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or any other safe place because it allows the person to gain entry without requiring the services of a locksmith.
A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an impression. This imprint can be utilized by key cutters to create a replica of the original that is identical in size and shape.
A pattern grinder is another popular method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. Keys can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device then pushes a blade to the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys. This means that there is no requirement for an expert.
Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting key s that is utilized in a few places. Instead of grinding keys to make 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 keys for tryouts.
A key cutting service may also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that connects to the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However the service isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of 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 wish to use an automatic or electric machine and how much money they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create an entirely new key. This can be done manually or with a manual machine. It can also be done with the laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to put the notch on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a few tools that cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks simultaneously. They are expensive however, they offer a wider variety of services.
Another option is to purchase a kit that includes both the cutting machine and the tools required to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing the tools individually, and can be an excellent investment for someone looking to start an operation that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad variety of keys and offers steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys that include dimples. It is able to be fitted with clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in a spare key, so you have something to go to in case you find yourself in a pinch.
If you decide to have your car key cut, it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, key cutting is making a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need can help you save money and time in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making an extra car key and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is more affordable than other methods, but it is risky if the key isn't made properly or the blank is of poor quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can create 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. They are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you're sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can even assist you to connect it to your car should you require it, for less than the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.