How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly if it is the only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some time. This could be a major hassle as you are unable to access your vehicle or home. 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 the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is identical to the original one in terms of shape and function and makes it impossible for someone else to access your property with an imitation.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have a copy made in minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks are equipped with keys that are blank and exactly like your existing key. They can also make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like home security or car keys.
The most advanced technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. It's called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, come with additional components that must be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components such as the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require specific equipment.
Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should look for a reputable company with a committed team of highly skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking mechanisms. It's also important to find locksmiths that offer emergency services, as they will be able to provide assistance in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce overall wear and wear and. A spare key could be used to gain access to your home or vehicle, or another secure location if someone has locked themselves outside.
Professionals can employ either the punching or tracing method to duplicate keys. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it is black and pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. A key cutter can then utilize this imprint to cut away creating a copy that is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches are gone on the other side. This makes the key easier to fit into locks. Keys can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine applies a blade on the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. These machines are manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys. This means that there is no requirement for an expert.
Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is utilized in specific locations. Instead of grinding down keys to get the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that resemble the serrated blades, which provides more protection against bump keys and other kinds of test keys.
Key cutting services are also able to design 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 more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is usually reserved for dealerships or automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many different types however, some elements that could influence a person's decision include the type of key they need and whether or not they want to use an automated or electric machine, and how much money they want to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of a key in order to cut another one. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to put the key's notch. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are several machines that cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These tools can be costly however they also allow you to offer more services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and could be a good option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad range of keys and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting the keys. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys including dimples. It also comes with clamps for handling the flat household keys 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 transponder chips which require programming to work with your vehicle, and they require specialized cutting machinery. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. car key cutting cost 's always a good idea to have a spare key in case you can use it in the case of an emergency lockout.
If you're considering having your car key cut it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require can help you save money and time in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional way of making a spare car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making keys for replacement however, it can 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 damage the lock and stop the key from working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specially designed. These machines can create an optical groove on both sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing in any way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective in stopping theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive because they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys, which means you're sure to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if you require it and at a fraction as the cost you would pay at dealers.