How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, particularly in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.
Having your car key cut at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This can be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to access your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than replacing their locks. This process is quicker and less expensive, as well as more efficient.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of the key using a specially-designed machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in design and function which makes it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your home using an imitation.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer a key-cutting station where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks make use of a blank key that is identical to your current key. They can also make copies of keys with more complex designs, such as car keys or home security keys.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the latest technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is referred to as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, like those used to control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.
Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, as they will be able to assist 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 tear. Additionally, a spare can be used if one is locked out of their home, car or any other safe place as it can allow them to gain entry without requiring the services of locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional can choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it is black and pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. key cutting services creates an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by key cutters to create a copy of the original identical to its size and shape.
A pattern grinder is another popular method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a flat surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade on the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. These machines can either be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with various keys. This eliminates the requirement for an expert.
A newer form of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys down to the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that look like an asymmetrical blade which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of test keys.
Key cutting services are also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. However the service isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it's crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision include the size and type of the key, whether they want an electric or automated machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut another one. This can be done manually or using a manual machine but it can be accomplished 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 it can be downloaded from databases.
There are a variety of machines that are able to cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends 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 as well as the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are usually less expensive than buying individual tools and are an excellent investment for anyone 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 removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys, and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. The machine also has a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to indicate its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It can be equipped with clamps that can be used to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your car, and they require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to invest in a spare key, so you have something to go to in the event that you're in a pinch.
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 identical, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional way of making a spare car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is less expensive than others, but could be risky if the key isn't created correctly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop your key from functioning.
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 allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, model and model, and then use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys so you'll be able to get the right one for your car. We can assist you with programming the key to your car, if needed and at a fraction of much as you would pay at dealers.