How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are the best method to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This could be a major hassle as you are unable to access your vehicle or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This is a quicker and less expensive process.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks use an uncut key that is exactly like your existing key. They can also make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. This is called key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components which must be programmed properly. These additional components such as the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, requiring specialised equipment.
Key cutting is the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but you should always seek professional assistance when you require one. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a staff of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. You should also look for locksmiths that provide emergency services. They can assist you in the event of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and wear and. Additionally, a spare can be used when someone is locked out of their home, car or other secure area as it can allow them to gain entry without requiring the services of locksmith.
To make 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 pressing it against the sticky side a piece clear tape. This leaves an imprint. This imprint can be used by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original that is identical to its size and shape.
Another common method is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed at the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then presses a blade down onto the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either manual or electric and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
A newer type of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the side of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types.
Key cutting services can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs that have an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However it cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming, which is often reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision are the size and style of the key, if they want an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they want spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of one key to cut a new one. This can be done manually or with a manual machine. It could also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines typically require a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from databases.
There are a few machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. They can be expensive however they also enable locksmiths to provide more services to customers.
Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than buying individual tools separately and can be an excellent investment for those who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. 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 the keys. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray that is integrated as well as LED lights that indicate its current status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys including dimples. cost to get a key cut is equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key so that you can access it in the case of an emergency lockout.
If you decide to have your car keys cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires an instrument for cutting keys to trace original contours onto a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making keys for replacement however it could be risky in the event that the key isn't well constructed or the key blank isn't high-quality. Insufficiently-cut key can harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specialized. These machines can make a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. These are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, model and model, and then utilize a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys, so you can be sure that you get the correct one for your car. We can help you program the key to your car if required, and at a fraction of much as you would pay at the dealer.