How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great option to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one moment, and when that occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, making it impossible to access your home or car. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more convenient.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of keys using a specific machine. This is done to make sure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get a copy made in minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks typically use a key blank that has the same style as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more elaborate keys such as car or home security keys.
The latest technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is known as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services function by drastically reducing the amount of time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, like those used to control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.
If you require an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have received a rigorous education in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It's also important to find locksmiths that offer emergency services, as they'll be able to provide assistance in the event of an accidental 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 your home or car, or any other secure location if someone has locked themselves out.
A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an imprint. This imprint can be utilized 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 that takes the original key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are gone on the other side. This allows you to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device then pushes a blade down onto the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
Laser cutting is a newer technique for cutting keys that is utilized in certain places. Instead of grinding keys to make the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.
A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. The service is not able to make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the correct key-cutting machine for someone needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of models however, some elements that affect a person's choice include the kind of key they require and whether or not they prefer 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 as well as how accurate it is.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of one key to cut another one. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual but it can also be done with a code or laser machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to put the key's notch. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are also a number of machines that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutter s are available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These are costly, however, they offer a wider range of services.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing the tools individually and are a great investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and allows users to access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that indicate its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It can be equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are much more than just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they get lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep an extra key in case you can utilize it in the case of a lockout.
If you're considering having your car key cut it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem similar, key cutting is making a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which one you require will save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making an extra car key and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating a replacement car key however it could be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't made 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 specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can make an optical groove on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way, and still function. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the right blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a vast selection of transponder keys so you can be sure that you get the correct one for your car. We can help you program the key to your car, if required and at a fraction of price as you would at a dealer.