How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.
cutting car key can save money by having your car keys cut at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. Not all hardware or locksmith shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some point, and when this happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, making it impossible to get into your home or car. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is a method that involves replicating an original key on the blank key with a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function.
A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate made by trained workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks typically use keys with the same style as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more elaborate keys such as car or home security keys.
The most advanced technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key-by-photo, and it revolutionises the way key duplication services work by reducing costs and time.
Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, come with additional components that must be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, requiring specialised equipment.
When you need an extra key, cutting it is a fast and simple way to get one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with different locking mechanisms and locks. You should also seek out locksmiths that provide emergency services. They can help you out in the event of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the making of spare keys, which can prevent damage to the original keys and decrease overall wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another secure location if someone has locked themselves outside.
To create a duplicate key, a professional can either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. Key cutters can utilize this imprint to cut away the original key, creating a copy which is identical in shape and size to the original.
Another method is to make use of a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This makes the key easier to fit into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The device then pushes a blade down onto the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. car key cutting are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys. This eliminates the need for a specialist.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to create the right dimensions, a laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other types.
Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or locks. However, the service isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the correct key-cutting machine for a person needs their keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, if they want an electric or automated machine, and how much they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done with the laser or a code machine. These machines will typically require codes that tell the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are car key cutting that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. 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 often less expensive than buying individual tools separately and are an excellent investment for someone planning to launch an operation that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access various keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to indicate its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys that include dimple keys. It is equipped with clamps that can be used to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to have an extra key so that you'll have something to turn to in the event that you find yourself stuck.
If you decide to have your car key cut it's crucial to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear similar, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require can save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making a spare car key, and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating an alternative car key however it could be risky if the key isn't properly made or the key blank isn't high-quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can create laser grooves on both sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way, and still function. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in preventing theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys since they are more complex and harder to find at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car keys using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We have a broad selection of transponder key options which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car if required and at a fraction of price as you would at dealers.