How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. Not all hardware or locksmith stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some point. This could be a major inconvenience, as you are unable to access your vehicle or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks entirely. This is a quicker and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is a technique that involves replicating an original key on a blank key, using a specialised machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original in form and function which makes it impossible for anyone else to access your property with an imitation.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks use a blank 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 relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. This is referred to as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services function by significantly reducing the time and cost involved.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip that is found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring specific equipment.
Key cutting can be the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional help when you need one. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able to provide assistance in case of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used if someone 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 locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional could choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter can then use this imprint to cut around, making a copy that is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.
A pattern grinder is another common method. It grinds the original key until it has a flat surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. In addition, a key can be cut with punch machines. A punch machine takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade onto the key and then cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.
Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting keys that is used in a few places. Instead of grinding the keys to the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the side of the key. The result is keys that look like the serrated blades which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other types of test keys.
A key cutting service may also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when a person needs their keys cut. There are look at this now 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, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done manually or using a manual machine but it can also be done with a laser or code. These machines typically require a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from a database.
There are a few machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. These tools can be costly, but they can also allow you to offer more services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a set that contains the cutting machine and the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than buying individual tools and are an excellent investment for someone who wants to start a business cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. It also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights that indicate the its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It is 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 simply a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that is programmed to your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep an extra key in case you can utilize it in the case of an emergency lockout.
When you choose to have your car keys cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional way of making an extra car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it is risky if the key isn't created properly or the key is not of good 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 requires a key-cutting machine that is specifically designed. These machines can create laser grooves on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective at protecting against theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will choose the right key blank for your year, make and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options, so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can also help you programme it to your car in case you need to, at a fraction of the cost that you would spend at the dealership.