How to Get a Car Key Cut
It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective method to avoid costly replacements.
Cutting your car keys at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This can be a major hassle as you are unable to access your car or home. Most people prefer to have extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This process is faster and less expensive, as well as more practical.
Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating the original key onto an uncut key, by using a special machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original in design and function and makes it impossible for someone else to access your property using an imitation.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer an area for cutting keys where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. The kiosks typically make use of keys that have the same style as your current key, but they can also make copies of more elaborate keys like keys for home or car security.
The most recent technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is called key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by drastically reducing the time and cost involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, which requires special equipment.
When you need a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick way to get one. However, you should always consult a professional. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a committed team of highly skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locking mechanisms and locks. You should also seek out locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and reduces wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used when one is locked out of their home, car or any other secure location since it will allow the person to gain entry without requiring the services of a locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional may employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an imprint. This impression can be utilized by a key cutter to make a replica of the original that is identical to its size and shape.
Another option is to employ a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This allows you to insert the key into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The device then pushes an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric, and can be programmed to work with different keys, reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few locations, referred to as laser key cutting near me cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to a serrated blade which offers more protection against bump keys and other types of tryout keys.
A key cutting service is also able to create replacement car key cutting keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or lock. However, the service isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision are the type and size of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The machine they choose can also impact the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.
Most key fob cut near me cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create an entirely new key. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine but it can be accomplished using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the notch on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are several machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key car cutting cutters. They can save a locksmith time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These tools can be costly, but they can also make it possible to offer more services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine as well as the tools required to operate it. These kits are often less expensive than purchasing the tools individually, and can be an excellent investment for those looking to start an operation that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad range of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated 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 is equipped with optional clamps to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than a mere piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that require programming to work with your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have a spare key in case you can access it in the event of an emergency lockout.
When you choose to have your car key cut it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing which service you require will save you money and time in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making a spare car key, and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than others, but is risky if the key is not made correctly or the key is not of good quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can create an optical groove on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive because they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will choose the right key blank for your year, model and model, and then use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even assist you to program it to your vehicle in case you need to, at only a fraction of the price that you would pay at a dealership.