How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace the keys to your car, especially when it's the only one you have. A backup key is the best protection against expensive replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. Not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some point. This could be a major inconvenience, as you are unable to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This process is faster and less expensive, as well as more practical.
Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating the original key onto the blank key using a specialised machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original in design and function which makes it impossible for someone else to access your home using a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide a key-cutting station where you can have 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 identical design as your current key, but they can also make copies of more elaborate keys such as keys for home or car security.
The most recent technology for key replication utilizes 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 work by drastically reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control Car key cutting Lowes lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that must be programmed to function properly. These additional components like the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
Key cutting is the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are equally, so choose a reputable firm with a committed team of highly skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with different locks and locking mechanisms. You should also seek out locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able to assist you in the event of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which can protect original keys and reduce the overall wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a home, car, or other 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 tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an imprint. A key cutter can then utilize this imprint to cut around, making a copy that is identical in shape and size to the original.
A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes the key easier to insert into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with punch machines, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade on the key, cutting 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 technique for cutting keys, which is employed in certain areas. Instead of grinding the keys down to the right dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The keys look like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys.
Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require special key cutting programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the correct key-cutting machine for someone needs their keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. The factors that can affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, whether they want an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the key's notch. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are also a number of machines that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. They can be expensive, but they can also allow you to offer more services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing the tools individually and can be a good option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide variety of keys and offers step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that show its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It can also be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle flat household and Tibbe keys as well for Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key so that you can utilize it in the case of an emergency lockout.
It is important to understand the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, duplication is the act of copying a key. Knowing which one you require can save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses the key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of making a replacement car key, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly constructed or the key blank isn't high-quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could harm the lock's cylinder, and cause the key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting open now cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can locksmith cut car keys cut laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These are often referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key by using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We have a broad selection of transponder key options, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if you require it and at a fraction as price as you would at the dealer.