How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some point. This could be a major inconvenience, since you're unable to get into your vehicle or go to your home. A majority of people prefer having extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive process.
Key cutting is the process of creating keys using a specific machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can obtain a duplicate made by trained workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks make use of a blank key that is exactly like your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
The latest technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing costs and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to work correctly. These additional components, like a transponder chip in vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require special equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting is a great way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but you should always seek professional help when you need one. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. You should also seek out locksmiths that provide emergency services. They can provide assistance in case of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used if one is locked out of their car, home or other secure area since it will allow the person to gain entry without the need for locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional could either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. This impression can be used by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original exactly the same size and shape.
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. The grooves and notches are gone from the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. In addition, a key can be cut with punch machines, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine applies a blade on the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either manual or electric, and can be programmed to work with different keys, reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
A newer form of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys down to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The keys appear like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.
A key cutting service is also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or locks. The service is not able to make replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done manually or with a manual machine, but it can also be done with a laser or code. These machines will typically require codes that tell the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are also a number of machines that are able to cut both mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. These tools can be costly however they can make it possible to offer more services to customers.
Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and can be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be easy to use. auto key cutting -inch touchscreen allows users to access many keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that indicate its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys that include dimple keys. It can also be fitted with optional clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as being cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chips that require programming to work with your vehicle and require specialized cutting machinery. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have a spare key so that you can access it in the event of a lockout.
If you decide to have your car keys cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear identical, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need can save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of creating an extra car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of making keys for replacement however, it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specialized. These machines can create a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. They are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. car key cutting cost are also more expensive because they're more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will pick the appropriate 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 keys, so you're sure to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if you require it and at a fraction of much as you would pay at a dealer.