How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great option to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. There aren't all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This can be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to get into your vehicle or go to your home. The majority of people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is faster, cheaper, and more efficient.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of a key using a special 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 have a key cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate created by skilled workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks typically use keys with the same style as your current key, but they also can make copies of more complicated keys like car or home security keys.
The most advanced technology in key replication uses 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 it revolutionises the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip that is found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.
Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional help when you need one. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should select a reputable company with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. You should also look for a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used when someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or other secure area as it can allow them to gain access without the need for locksmith.
Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter can then utilize this imprint to cut around, making a copy that is the same dimensions and shape to the original.
A pattern grinder is another popular method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device then pushes a blade to the key and cuts 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 used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to get the right dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that look like the serrated blades that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of keys for tryouts.
Key cutting services can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that communicates with the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. The service can't make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right machine to cut keys when someone needs their keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. The factors that can affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, if they want an electric or automated machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the shape 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 code or laser machine. These machines will typically require codes that tell the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are also a range of machines that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These machines are expensive, however, they offer a wider range of services.
Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than buying tools on their own and could be a good investment for someone who wants to start a business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad range of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It is equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your car and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key in case you can use it in the situation of an emergency lockout.
If you decide to have your car key cut, it's crucial to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem similar, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making a spare car key, and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than other options, but it is risky if the key isn't created correctly or the key is not of good quality. A poorly cut key could cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working.
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, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in preventing theft than normal keys. These keys are also more expensive because they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a variety of transponder keys, so you're sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. key car cutting can even help you connect it to your car if necessary, at less than the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.