How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. There aren't all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some time, and when this happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, making it impossible to get into your home or car. Most people prefer to have additional keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is the process of creating the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can have a copy created by skilled workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks make use of an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They also can make copies of keys with more complex designs, such as home security or car keys.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. This is known as key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost.
Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, have additional components that need to be programmed to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip that is found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring specific equipment.
Key cutting is a great way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able to provide assistance in case of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys, which can protect keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and wear and. A spare key can also be used to gain access to your home or vehicle, or another safe location if someone has locked themselves outside.
To make a duplicate key, a professional could choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the tip of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. This imprint can be used by a key cutter to make a copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.
A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Additionally, cost to get a key cut can be cut using punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The device forces an edge onto the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. These machines can be manual or electric, and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.
A newer type of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to an asymmetrical blade that provides greater protection against bump keys and other types of test keys.
Key cutting services can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that communicates with the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. The service cannot create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the correct key-cutting machine for you need your keys cut. There are many different types and some of the factors that can affect a person's choice include the type of key they require, whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric machine and how much money they want to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality of their work and how accurate it is.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of one key to cut a new one. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the notch on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a few tools which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. They are expensive however they can provide a wider variety of services.
Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and could be a good investment for anyone who wishes to get into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be easy to use. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a broad range of keys, and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. The machine also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to indicate its status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys including dimples. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chip that must be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are lost or taken. This is why it's always a good idea to have a spare key, so you'll have something to turn to if you find yourself in a pinch.
When you choose to have your car keys cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is cheaper than others, but is risky if the key is not made properly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut key can cause damage to the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specifically designed. These machines can cut an optical groove 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 at preventing theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive because they're more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use a special machine to duplicate your car key using the right blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if you require it and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at dealers.