How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace the keys to your car, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great option to avoid costly replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at an automotive store like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. But not all hardware stores or locksmith laser cut keys near me shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This can be a major hassle because you're unable get into your car or home. A majority of people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive process.
Key cutting is a method that involves copying an original key on a blank key, using a specialised machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original in both shape and function which makes it impossible for anyone else to unlock your property with a fake.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can obtain a duplicate created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks typically use a key blank that has the same style as your current key, however, they also can make copies of more complicated keys, such as keys for home or car security.
The latest technology for 24 hour key cutting replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is called key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services work by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, which requires special equipment.
When you need a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. Not all locksmiths are to be the same, so you must choose a reputable firm with a team of skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training in dealing with different locking mechanisms and locks. You should also seek out locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able to assist you in the event of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another secure location if someone has locked themselves out.
Professionals can employ either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut away creating a copy that is identical in dimensions and shape to the original.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches are removed on the other side. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with a punch machine, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. A device then forces a blade to the key cutting each notch until the required depth. These machines are manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys. This eliminates the requirement for an expert.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is being used in some places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the side of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other types.
Key cutting services are also able to design replacement car key cutting keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. The service is not able to make replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the right machine to cut keys when someone needs their keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. Some factors that may affect a person's choice include the size and type of the key, whether they prefer an automatic or electric machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The tool they select will also influence the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done manually or with a manual machine. It can also be done with the laser or a code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the key's notch. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are also a number of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They can save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. These machines are expensive, however, they offer a wider range of services.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately, and can be an excellent investment for those who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access a variety of keys, and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that indicate its current status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys that include dimples. It is able to be fitted with clamps for handling flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than simply a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your vehicle, and they require cutting machines that are specialized. They are more costly to replace in the event that they get lost or stolen. It's always a good idea to have a spare key cutting key so that you can utilize it in the situation of a lockout.
If you're considering having your car key cut it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying an existing key. Knowing the type of service you require will save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, uses an instrument for cutting keys to trace original contours onto a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making keys for replacement however it could be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create an optical groove on both sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way, and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in preventing theft than normal keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the appropriate blank for your car's year and make. We have a variety of transponder key options, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car should you require it, for a fraction of the cost that you would pay at an auto dealer.