How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly in the event that you lose only one. The possession of duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses keys at some point, and when this occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to access your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This process is quicker and cheaper as well as more convenient.
Key cutting is a method that involves replicating the original key onto 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 and makes it impossible for anyone else to access your property with an unauthentic.
A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can obtain a duplicate made by trained employees in just a few minutes. These kiosks use keys that are blank and the same as your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complicated designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
The latest technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the process of key duplication by reducing costs and time.
Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components like the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.
If you require a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick way to get one. However, you should always consult a professional. It is not advisable to choose 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. 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 helps to prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a home, car, or other safe location if someone has locked themselves out.
To create a duplicate key, a professional could employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter will use this imprint to cut around the original key, creating a copy which is exactly the same in size and shape to the original.
Another common 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 the key easier to be fitted into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. A device then presses a blade down onto the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. These machines can either be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This reduces the need for an expert.
Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting keys that is used in certain areas. Instead of grinding keys to make the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to an asymmetrical blade that provides greater protection against bump keys and other kinds of keys for tryouts.
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 it cannot create replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming that is usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of types and some of the factors that could affect a person's choice include the type of key they need, whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric machine and how much money they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of one key to cut new ones. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to put the key's notch. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are a few machines which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They help locksmiths save time by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. They can be expensive however they also allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools needed to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are usually cheaper than buying individual tools separately and are a great investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be easy to use. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access a variety of keys, and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has an accessory tray built-in 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 also comes with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than simply a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your car and require specialized cutting equipment. cheap key cutting are more expensive to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in an extra key so that you have something to turn to in case you're stuck.
It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, duplication is the act of copying a key. Knowing which one you require will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is more affordable than others, but can be risky when the key isn't created properly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut key can damage the lock and stop the key from working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can cut a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These are often called sidewinder keys and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. These keys are also more expensive because they are more complicated 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 special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if required, and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at dealers.