How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially when you lose the only one. Having duplicate keys is the best protection against expensive replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This can be a major hassle as you are unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. Most people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a quicker, cheaper and more convenient process.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of a key using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks usually use a key blank that has the identical design as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more elaborate keys such as keys for your car or home security.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is called key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services function by drastically reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, have additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. These additional components, like the transponder chip found in car keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate correctly.
Key cutting is the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. Not all locksmiths are created to be the same, so you must look for a reputable company with a team of highly skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking mechanisms. You should also look for locksmiths who provide emergency services. They can assist you in the event of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another safe location if someone has locked themselves out.
To make a duplicate key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the end of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut it away creating a copy that is the same shape and size to the original.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the original key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade, and the grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This makes it easier to insert into locks. A key can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The machine forces a blade onto the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the requirement for a specialist to be present.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The keys appear like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types of keys.
A key cutting service is also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or locks. However it isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. The factors that can affect a person's choice include the size and type of the key, whether they want an automatic or electric machine, and how much they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of a key in order to cut another one. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual, but it can be accomplished using a laser or code. These machines will typically require a code that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from databases.
There are a few tools that cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These machines can be expensive however they also enable locksmiths to provide a wider range of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine and the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and could be a good option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be easy to use. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a broad variety of keys and offers step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting the keys. It also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights that indicate the its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It can be equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more simply a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you have something to turn to in the event that you're stuck.
It's crucial to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying a key. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making a spare car key, and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. get car key cut is less expensive than other methods for making a replacement car key however it could be risky in the event that the key isn't well created or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut key can cause damage to the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specially designed. These machines can create an optical groove on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, model and model, and then 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 perfect one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if needed and at a fraction of the cost you would pay at the dealer.