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 best way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This could be a huge inconvenience because you're unable get into your vehicle or home. Most people prefer to have extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is faster and cheaper as well as more practical.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key cutting business matches the original both in shape and function.
Many 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. The kiosks typically make use of keys that have the same style as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more elaborate keys like keys for your car or home security.
The most recent technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. This is referred to as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services function by drastically reducing the amount of time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, such as those used to control the security of car locks or access points, have additional components that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components, like the transponder chip found in car keys, or a microchip embedded in some home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require specialized equipment to duplicate correctly.
If you require a spare key, cutting is a quick and easy way to get one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to find locksmiths who 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 can be used to make spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other safe place because it allows them to gain entry without requiring the services of a locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional could either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the tip of the key until it is black and pressing it against the sticky surface of an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an imprint. This imprint can be used by key cut place cutters to create an exact copy of the original exactly the same size and shape.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This makes the key easier to be fitted into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The machine applies an edge onto the key and then cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines can be manual or electric, and can be programmed to work with different keys, reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
A newer type of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys down to the right dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the side of the key. This results in keys that look like an asymmetrical blade that provides greater protection against bump keys and other kinds of test keys.
Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. The service cannot create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when you need your keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. Some factors that may affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, whether they prefer an automatic or electric machine, and how much they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of a key cutting places to create the new key. This can be done manually or with a manual machine but it can also be done with a laser or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the key cutting business's notch. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from a database.
There are also a number of machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. They are expensive however they can provide a wider variety of services.
Another option is to purchase a kit that includes both the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing the tools individually, and can be an excellent investment for anyone who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide range of keys and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting the keys. The machine also has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys, including dimple keys. It is equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that require programming to work with your car and require cutting machines that are specialized. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. This is why it's always a good idea to purchase an extra key so that you have something to go to in case you find yourself in a pinch.
When you choose to have your car keys cut, it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, key cutting is creating a brand new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need can save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, uses a key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is more affordable than other options, but it is risky if the local key cutting isn't made properly or the blank is of poor quality. Keys that are cut improperly can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can cut laser grooves on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective at protecting against theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will choose the right key blank for your year, model, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys so you can be sure that you get the correct one for your car. We can help you program the key to your car, if required, and for a fraction of the cost much as you would pay at a dealer.