How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at a car repair shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. Not all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some point. This could be a huge inconvenience because you're unable get into your car or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This is a quicker, cheaper and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.
A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can get a copy made by trained employees within a matter of minutes. These kiosks are equipped with a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They also can make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
The most recent technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is called key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed to work properly. These additional components such as the transponder chip that is found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
When you need a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick way to get one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find locksmiths that offer emergency services, since they will be able to provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and wear and. A spare key can be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another secure location if someone has locked themselves outside.
Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate keys. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. Key cutters can utilize this imprint to cut around the original key, creating a copy which is identical in dimensions and shape to the original.
Another common method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This allows the key to fit into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The device forces an edge onto the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are manual or electric and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This eliminates the requirement for an expert.
A newer type of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to make the correct dimensions, a laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that resemble an asymmetrical blade, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of tryout 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 vehicle or locks. The service cannot create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when a person needs their keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. Some factors that may 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 want spend. The type of machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut another one. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual however, it could be accomplished using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code that tells 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 several machines which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. cost to get a key cut can be costly however they also allow you to offer an array of services to customers.
Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and could be a good investment for anyone who wishes to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be easy to use. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that show its state. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It can also be fitted with clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys, as well for cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle and require cutting machines that are specialized. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to purchase an extra key, so you have something to turn to if you're in a bind.
If you're considering having your car key cut it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear identical, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing which service you require will help you save money and time in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, requires an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours on a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods for making keys for replacement, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can cut laser grooves on both flat sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing either way, and still function. These are often called sidewinder keys and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car key by 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 vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car should you require it, for less than the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.