How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.
Cutting your car keys at an automotive store like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some point, and when this happens, it can be an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to get into your car or home. Most people prefer having extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is faster and cheaper as well as more convenient.
Key cutting is a process that involves copying the original key onto the blank key with a specially-designed machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original one in terms of design and function which makes it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your property using a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have a copy made in minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks usually use keys with the same design as your existing key, but they can also make copies of more complicated keys like keys for home or car security.
The most recent technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. It's called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, such as keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, which requires special equipment.
Key cutting is a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a staff of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, since they will be able to provide assistance in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. get car keys cut can prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used if someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or other secure area because it allows the person to gain entry without the assistance of a locksmith.
To create a duplicate key, a professional could choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be used by a key cutter to make a replica of the original identical in size and shape.
Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed on the other side. This allows you to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric, and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting keys that is used in specific locations. Instead of grinding the keys to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that resemble the serrated blades, which provides more protection against bump keys and other types of keys for tryouts.
Key cutting services can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service cannot create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when a person needs their keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. The factors that can affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, whether they prefer an automatic or electric machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.
Most 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 using a code or laser machine. These machines will typically need an identifier 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 also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These are costly, but can offer a greater variety of services.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and can be a good option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to indicate its status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys that include dimples. It also comes with clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well being cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than a mere piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that must be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. That's why it's always wise to invest in a spare key, so you have something to go to if you find yourself in a pinch.
When you choose to have your car key cut, it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear identical, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating a spare car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other options, but it is risky if the key isn't made correctly or the key is not of good quality. Insufficiently-cut key can harm the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can cut an optical groove on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder either way. They are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use an exclusive 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, so you're sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can also help you connect it to your car if necessary, at only a fraction of the price that you would spend at a dealership.