How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. A backup key is the best way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. However, not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some point. This could be a major hassle since you're unable to access your vehicle or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks entirely. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is a technique that involves duplicating an original key on a blank key, using a specialised machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in design and function, making it impossible for someone else to access your property with a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks usually use a key blank that has 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 recent 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 called key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services function by significantly reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components, like the transponder chip found in car keys or an embedded microchip in some home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to fit into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate correctly.
When you need a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. There are many locksmiths that are not equally, so choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have completed rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking mechanisms. It's also important to find locksmiths that offer emergency services, as they can provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used if someone is locked out of their home, car or other secure area since it will allow them to gain access without the assistance of a locksmith.
To create a duplicate key, a professional could employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This leaves an impression. A key cutter will make use of this imprint to cut it away, making a copy that is exactly the same in dimensions and shape to the original.
Another option is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are gone at the other end. 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 onto the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. The machines can be either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting keys that is utilized in certain locations. Instead of grinding down keys to get the correct dimensions, a laser is used to remove 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.
Key cutting services can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However it cannot create replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the correct key-cutting machine for someone needs their keys cut. There are many different types and some of the factors that could influence a person's choice are the type of key they require as well as 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 influence the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the profile of a key to create a new key. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. auto key cutting can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the key's notch. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are also a range of machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They can save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. These machines can be expensive however they also enable locksmiths to provide a wider range of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine and tools required to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than buying 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 that has been designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. car key cutting cost comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It can be equipped with clamps that can be used to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than a mere piece of metal. They have transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to invest in an extra key so that you'll have something to turn to in case you're in a pinch.
It's important to know the difference between duplication and cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need will help you save 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 on a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of creating a replacement car key, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut key can harm the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also known as sidewinder 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.
At AutoZone, an associate will choose the right key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then utilize a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, so you'll be able that you get the correct one for your car. We can also help you program it to your vehicle if necessary, at only a fraction of the price that you would pay at a dealership.