How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. The possession of duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at an automotive store like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some point. This can be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to get into your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have additional keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is a method that involves replicating the original key onto the blank key with a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to 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 made by trained employees within a matter of minutes. These kiosks use keys that are blank and exactly like your existing key. They can also make copies of keys with more complex designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
The latest technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing costs and time.
Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to function correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip in car keys and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain an extra key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional help when you need one. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. You should also look for locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able assist you in the event of an accident lockout.
Related Site Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used in the event that one is locked out of their car, home or any other secure location as it can allow them to gain access without requiring the services of a locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional could choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the end of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This leaves an impression. This impression can be used by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original that is identical in size and shape.
A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It 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 the key easier to fit into locks. A key can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the required depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys. This eliminates the need for an expert.
Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is utilized in specific places. Instead of grinding keys to get the right dimensions, a laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that resemble the serrated blades which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of keys for tryouts.
Key cutting services can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However the service cannot create replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. A few factors that could affect a person's choice include the size and type of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they want spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work and how precise 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 machine that is manual. It can also be done with a laser or code machine. These machines will typically require codes that tell the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are a few machines that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These tools can be costly, but they can also make it possible to offer a wider range of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and can be a good investment for anyone who wishes to start a business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access a variety of keys, and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights that indicate the status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys, including dimples. It also comes with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as being cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which need to be programmed to work with your vehicle and require specialized cutting machinery. They are more costly to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to invest in an extra key, so you'll have something to turn to in the event that you're in a bind.
When you choose to have your car key cut, it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem similar, key cutting is creating a brand new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require can save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires an instrument for cutting keys to trace original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods for making keys for replacement however it could be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't of high-quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can make a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in stopping theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key blank for your year, model, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a variety of transponder key options, so you're sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if required and for a fraction of the cost much as you would pay at a dealer.