How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially if you lose your only one. The possession of duplicate keys is the best way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some time. This could be a major inconvenience, since you're unable to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is a quicker and less expensive process.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done to make sure that the key matches the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting station where you can get a copy made in minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks typically use keys with the identical design as your current key, but they can also make copies of more complicated keys like keys for your car or home security.
The most recent technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings of 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 cost involved.
Modern electronic keys, such as those used to control car lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip in car keys and the embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.
Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional assistance when you require one. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should seek out a reputable business with a dedicated team of highly skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training to handle different locking mechanisms and locks. You should also look for locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a home or car, or any other safe place if a person has locked themselves outside.
A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate keys. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This creates an impression. A key cutter will utilize this imprint to cut it away the original key, creating a copy which is the same shape and size to the original.
Another option is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The device then pushes an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. These machines are electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This means that there is no need for an expert.
A newer type of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down keys to make the proper dimensions, a laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.
A key cutting service may also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, that have an embedded chip that connects to the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. However it cannot create replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming, which is often reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the right machine to cut keys when you need your keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision include the size and type of the key, if they want an electric or automated machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The type of machine they select can also impact the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine but it can also be done with the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the notch on the new key. car key cut can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are a few machines which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They can save a locksmith time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These tools can be costly however they can enable locksmiths to provide more services to customers.
Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than buying the tools individually, and can be an excellent investment for anyone looking to start a business cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large variety of keys and offers step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It also comes with clamps that can be used to handle flat household and Tibbe keys, as as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than simply a piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that is programmed to your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. This is why it's always a good idea to have a spare key, so you have something to go to in case you find yourself in a pinch.
It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require will save you money and time in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses the key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is more affordable than others, but can be risky when the key isn't made 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 is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. These keys are also more expensive because they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, so you're sure to get the right one for your car. We can also help you program it to your vehicle should you require it, for less than the price that you would spend at the dealership.