How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly in the event that you lose only one. The possession of duplicate keys is the best defense against expensive replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of a 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 an extremely stressful day, causing you to be unable to get into your home or car. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is the process of creating keys using a specific machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in shape and function, making it impossible for anyone else to access your property using an unauthentic.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can have a copy created by skilled workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks make use of keys that are blank and identical to your current key. They also can make copies of keys with more complicated designs, like home security or car keys.
In get keys cut to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is referred to as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services function by drastically reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, such as keys used to control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip in vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require special equipment to duplicate correctly.
When you need a spare, key cutting is a quick and easy method to obtain one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able assist you in the event 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 also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to your home, car, or other secure location if someone has locked themselves outside.
To create a duplicate key, a professional may employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is identical in shape and size to the original.
A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface on one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then presses a blade to the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.
Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys, which is employed in certain locations. 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 keys resemble a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other kinds of keys.
A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer systems 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
It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when you need your keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, whether they prefer an automatic or electric machine, and the amount they want spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of a key to create an entirely new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine. It could also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the key's notch. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from a database.
There are also a range of machines that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks simultaneously. They are expensive however they can provide a wider range of services.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically cheaper than buying tools on their own and can be a good 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 removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access various keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. It also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys that include dimples. It also comes with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as as Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It is a good idea to purchase a spare key, so you'll have something to turn to in case you find yourself stuck.
It is important to understand the difference between duplication and cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. While they might appear similar, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require can save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making an extra car key and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is less expensive than others, but can be risky when the key isn't created correctly or the blank is of poor quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can create an optical groove on both sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way while still functioning. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, model and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys so you can be sure to get the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car if required, and at a fraction of the cost you would pay at dealers.