How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. Having duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at an automotive store like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. However, not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some time. This could be a major inconvenience, since you're unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient process.
Key cutting is the process of creating the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting station where you can have a copy made in minutes by a trained worker. The kiosks typically make use of a key blank that has the identical design as your current key, but they can also make copies of more intricate keys, such as car or home security keys.
The most recent technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is referred to as key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services function by drastically reducing the amount of time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, such as keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip that is found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, and require specific equipment.
If you require an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy method to obtain one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. There are many locksmiths that are not equally, so seek out a reputable business with a committed team of experts who have completed rigorous training to handle different locking mechanisms and locks. You should also look for a locksmith who offers emergency services. They can provide assistance in case of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the making of spare keys, which can prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used if someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or other secure area as it can allow them to gain entry without the need for a locksmith.
A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by key cutters to create a replica of the original exactly the same size and shape.
A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface at one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines. A punch machine 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 required depth. These machines can either be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This means that there is no need for an expert.
key cutting open now is a newer technique for cutting keys that is utilized in specific locations. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the side of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to a serrated blade which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of keys for tryouts.
Key cutting services can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the right key-cutting machine when someone needs their keys cut. There are many different types, but some factors that could affect a person's choice include the kind of key they require, whether or not they prefer to use an automatic or electric device, and the much they are willing to spend. The machine they choose can also impact the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of one key to cut another one. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to put the key's notch. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are a few tools which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These are costly, however they can provide a wider variety of services.
Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually less expensive than buying individual tools and are an excellent investment for someone who wants to start an operation that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable lets users access a wide range of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting them. The machine also has a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as as Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern keys for cars are more just a piece made of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your vehicle and require specialized cutting machinery. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It is a good idea to purchase a spare key, so you have something to turn to if you find yourself in a pinch.
It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear identical, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making a spare car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is more affordable than other options, but it is risky if the key isn't made correctly 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 special key-cutting machine. These machines can make a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. These are often called sidewinder keys and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will select the correct key blank for your year, model, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options, which means you're certain 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 a dealer.