Have you ever wondered if the key you got copied from Home Depot or a lockshop wouldn't work when you used it in your door? For many of us, it's something we have to deal with. This will teach you how to identify bad key copies before you even leave the store.
Step 1
Do the keys line up side by side? The easiest way to tell if a key is bad is if it does not line or match up with the grooves and the shoulder on your original key.
Step 2
Is it the correct key blank? On many basic keys, there are numbers you can check on the shoulder or the front head of the key. On normal house keys, a number would probably say SC-1 or KW-1.
Step 3
Could the key even be copied? Sometimes stores can copy keys that cannot be copied on normal blanks. Certain types of keys cannot be copied from regular locksmiths, such as ones for Primus locks and ones meant for college dorm rooms and apartments.
Step 4
If it was a car key, did you tell them the make and model? It's very easy for larger department stores to screw up your key if you don't tell them the year or model car you have. Also, some newer models of cars have electronics inside, and car doors or the iginition may not work if you copy them from a regular key blank.
Step 5
Is the clerk confident he did it right? You can sometimes tell if they are unsure or unconfident that the key will work. Sometimes, if they take a long time, or no time at all, they may have chosen an incorrect key blank.
Step 6
Has the original key become worn from use? Years of use in the lock causes wear in an original key, possibly causing it to not be able to be copied correctly. If this is the case then an original key will have to be made.
Step 7
Is it a copy of a copy? If you copy a key based on copies, they will slowly gain more errors. After the 5th generation of copies, those keys may fail to work in your lock, or work improperly.
Step 8
Was it copied locally? Most of the time, locally owned businesses copy keys better than department stores. It may cost a quarter more, but it's definitely worth it.
Step 9
Was your original key broken or bent? You can sometimes copy a key from a broken or bent key. A locksmith needs to find out the numbered combination of your lock and needs to cut you an entire new one if it is broken in a bad spot or if the machine cannot grip the broken pieces.
Tips
- The better the original key, the better the copy.
- If your original doesn't work, the copy won't work.
- Keys will get worn when used a lot. Always remember to get your locks re-keyed (and possibly replaced) every couple of years.
Warnings
- Do not do this yourself! Key copying machines have a fast-spinning blade to cut keys with. This is dangerous.
- If you are trained to make keys, always wear eyewear and beware of brass splinters!
