How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. A backup key is the best defense against expensive replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses keys at some moment, and when that happens, it can be a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to gain access to your car or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating the key using a specially-designed machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in both design and function which makes it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your home using an unauthentic.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get a copy made in minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks are equipped with a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They can also make copies of keys with more complex designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
The latest technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, come with additional components that must be programmed to function correctly. These additional components, like a transponder chip in vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in a few home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require specialized equipment to duplicate correctly.
When you need an extra key, cutting it is a fast and simple method to obtain one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should seek out a reputable business with a committed team of highly skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They can provide assistance in case of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used in the event that someone is locked out of their car, home or any other safe place as it can allow them to gain entry without the assistance of a locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional may either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original that is identical to its size and shape.
Another method is to employ a pattern grinder that takes the original key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade, and the grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with a punch machine, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. A device then presses a blade down onto the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines can either be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.
A newer form of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. key cutting open now is keys that look like an asymmetrical blade, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of test keys.
A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or lock. However the service cannot make replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of types, but some factors that affect a person's choice include the type of key they need, whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The machine they choose will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the outline of an existing key to create an entirely new key. This can be done manually or with a manual machine however, it could also be done using a code or laser machine. These machines will typically need codes that tell the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from databases.
There are also a number of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These are costly, however, they offer a wider range of services.
Another alternative is to buy a set that contains the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and are an excellent investment for anyone looking to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad range of keys, and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting the keys. The machine also has an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys, including dimples. It is equipped with optional clamps to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your vehicle, and they require cutting machines that are specialized. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always a good idea to have an extra key in case you can access it in the case of a lockout.
When you choose to have your car key cut, it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying a key. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating a spare car key and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is more affordable than other methods, but it can be risky when the key isn't created correctly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut key can harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can make a laser groove on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way, and still function. These are often called sidewinder keys and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use an instrument that can duplicate your car key using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a broad selection of transponder key options so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car in case you need to, at only a fraction of the price that you would spend at the dealership.