How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, especially when it's the only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some point, and when this happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, making it impossible to get into your car or home. The majority of people prefer to have extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient process.
Key cutting is the process of creating a key using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in shape and function, making it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property using a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting station where you can have a copy made in minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks usually use a key blank that has the same style as your current key, but they also can make copies of more intricate keys such as keys for home or car security.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank piece of. It is called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed properly. These additional components such as the transponder chip that is found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip that is found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring specialised equipment.
Key cutting can be the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional assistance when you require one. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a committed team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to locate locksmiths that offer emergency services as they'll be able to help in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and wear and tear. A spare key cutting places can be used to gain access to a home or car, or any other safe location if someone is locked out.
To create a duplicate key, a professional could choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an imprint. Key cutters can utilize this imprint to cut around the original key, creating a copy which is exactly the same in dimensions and shape to the original.
Another method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade, and the grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This allows for easier inserting the key cut place near me into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade onto the key and cuts each notch at the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric, and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the requirement for a specialist to be present.
Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is used in certain areas. Instead of grinding keys down to the proper dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. The keys look like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.
Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or lock. The service cannot create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, whether they want an automatic or electric machine, and how much they'd like to spend. The machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the contour of a key in order to create a new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine however, it could also be done using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to put the notch on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from the database.
There are several machines which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They save a locksmith time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These are costly, but can offer a greater variety of services.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to get into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access many keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to indicate its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It is equipped with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more simply a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare car key cutting near me key so that you can utilize it in the event of a lockout.
When you choose to have your car key cut it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you require can save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, uses an instrument for cutting keys to trace original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods for making a replacement car key however it could be risky if the key isn't properly constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut key can damage the lock and stop your key from working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use an instrument that can duplicate your car key by using the appropriate blank for your car's year and make. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car in case you need to, at only a fraction of the price that you would pay at a dealership.