How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially when you lose the only one. The possession of duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
Cutting your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. There aren't all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses keys at some moment, and when that occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, causing you to be unable to gain access to your home or car. Most people choose to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is faster, cheaper, and more practical.
Key cutting is the process of creating keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original in both form and function and makes it impossible for anyone else to access your home using an unauthentic.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide a key-cutting station where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks usually use keys with the identical design as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more complicated keys like car or home security keys.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and is revolutionizing the process of key duplication by reducing costs and time.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, have additional components that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require special equipment to duplicate correctly.
Key cutting can be a great way to get an extra key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional help when you need one. There are many locksmiths that are not equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a team of skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training to deal with various locking mechanisms and locks. You should also seek out locksmiths who provide emergency services. They can provide assistance in case of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to your home or vehicle, or another safe location if someone has locked themselves out.
A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be used by a key cutter to make a replica of the original that is identical in size and shape.
Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are gone on the other side. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines can either be manual or electric 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, which is employed in specific areas. Instead of grinding keys down to the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the side of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to the serrated blades, which provides more protection against bump keys and other types of keys for tryouts.
Key cutting services are also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. The service is not able to create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are key cut places near me of key cutting machines. Some factors that may 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 tool they select will also affect the quality of their work and how accurate it is.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of one key to cut another one. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It could also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the notch on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a variety of machines that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These tools can be costly however they also make it possible to offer more services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are typically cheaper than buying the tools individually 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 removable 10-inch touchscreen allows users to access various 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 show the status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It is equipped with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern keys for cars are more simply a piece of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your car, and they require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key so that you can use it in the event of an emergency lockout.
If you're considering having your car key cut, it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you require will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making a spare car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of making keys for replacement, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly made or the key blank isn't of high-quality. A poorly cut key could harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can cut a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive since they're more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a broad selection of transponder key options, so you're sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even assist you to program it to your vehicle if necessary, at a fraction of the cost that you would pay at an auto dealer.