How to Get a Car Key Cut
It is costly to replace your car keys, especially in the case of only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
Cutting your car keys at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This can be a major hassle since you're unable to get into your vehicle or go to your home. The majority of people prefer having extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is a quicker, cheaper and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is the process of creating keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have an area for cutting keys where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks typically use a key blank that has the same style as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more intricate 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 known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing time and costs.
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 like the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, requiring specialised equipment.
Key cutting can be a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are created equally, so choose a reputable firm with a committed team of experts who have undergone rigorous training to handle different locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to locate a locksmith that offers emergency services, since they can assist in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original van keys cut near me and decreases wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another safe place if a person is locked out.
To create a duplicate key, a professional can either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky surface of the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. A key cutter can then utilize this imprint to cut away, making a copy that is the same size and shape to the original.
Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder that takes the original key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side 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. A device then forces a blade to the key cutting each notch until the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting keys that is used in a few places. Instead of grinding keys to make the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that resemble an asymmetrical blade that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other types of test keys.
A key cutting service can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs which feature an embedded chip that connects to the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. However it isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the size and style of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, and how much they want spend. The type of machine they select can also impact the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut another one. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine but it can also be done using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the key's notch. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are also a range of machines that are able to cut new car key near me mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These are costly, however, they offer a wider range of services.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and could be a good investment for anyone who wishes 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 various 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 show its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It can be equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are much more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your vehicle and require special key cutting cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can access it in the event of an emergency lockout.
It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying a key. Knowing which one you require can help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making an extra car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than other options, but it can be risky when the key isn't made properly or the blank is of poor quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder either way. These are often called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. They are also more expensive because they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car key cutting service keys using the right blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a wide selection of Transponder key cutting near Me key options so you're sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car if you require it and for a fraction of the cost the cost you would pay at a dealer.