How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially when you lose the only one. Having duplicate keys is the best protection against costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This could be a huge inconvenience since you're unable to get into your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is a process that involves replicating an original key onto a blank key, with a specially-designed machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in both shape and function and makes it impossible for anyone else to unlock your home using an unauthentic.
A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can have a copy made by trained workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks usually use keys with the same style as your current key, however, they also can make copies of more elaborate keys, such as keys for home or car security.
The most advanced technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, such as keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed to function properly. These additional components, like the transponder chip found in car keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require special equipment to duplicate properly.
When you need a spare key, cutting is a quick and easy way to get one. However you should always seek advice from an expert. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should select a reputable company with a team of experts who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It's also important to find locksmiths that offer emergency services, since they will be able to assist in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a house or car, or any other secure location if someone has locked themselves outside.
To create a duplicate key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black, and then pressing it against the sticky side of an uncut piece of tape. This creates an imprint. Key cutters can utilize this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.
A pattern grinder is another popular method. key cutting price is used to grind 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. Finally, a key can be cut using punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are either manual or electric, and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.
A newer form of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to get the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys.
Key cutting services are also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. However, the service isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is often reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the right key-cutting machine when a person needs their keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, if they want an electric or automated machine, and the amount they want spend. The machine they choose will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines typically require a code that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are a variety of machines that are able to cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These machines can be expensive however they also enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and could be a good option for those looking to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is 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 states that the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated as well as LED lights that indicate its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It also comes with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as for cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They have transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require specialized cutting machinery. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It is a good idea to purchase a spare key, so you have something to go to in case you find yourself stuck.
If you decide to have your car key cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making a spare car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is more affordable than others, but could be risky if the key isn't created properly or the key is not of good 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 specifically designed. These machines can create laser grooves on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective in preventing theft than regular keys. These keys are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car keys using the right blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a broad selection of transponder key options so you're sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can even assist you to programme it to your car should you require it, for a fraction of the cost that you would spend at a dealership.