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. Having duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.
Cutting your car keys at an automotive store like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. There aren't all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to get into your home or car. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more convenient.
Key cutting is a method that involves copying an original key on an uncut key, by using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can obtain a duplicate made by trained employees within a matter of minutes. These kiosks are equipped with an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys that have more intricate designs, such as car keys or home security keys.
The most advanced technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by significantly reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, such as keys 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, such as the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip that is found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
Key cutting can be the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. Not all locksmiths are created to be the same, so you must choose a reputable firm with a committed team of skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, as they will be able to provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to the original keys and decrease overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a home, car, or other safe location if someone has locked themselves out.
A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate keys. With the tracing method, 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 imprint. This impression can be used by key cutters to create a replica of the original that is identical in size and shape.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder which 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 on the other side. This makes it easier to insert into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting keys that is used in a few locations. Instead of grinding keys down to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the side of the key. This results in keys that look like a serrated blade, which provides more protection against bump keys and other kinds of tryout keys.
A key cutting service may also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs that have an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However it cannot create replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming that is often reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision include the size and type of the key, whether they want an electric or automated machine, and the amount they want spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work and how precise it is.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of one key to cut another one. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine, but it can also be done with a code or laser 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 also a number of machines that are able to cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They can save a locksmith time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These are costly, however they can provide a wider range of services.
link homepage that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and can be a good option for those looking to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be easy to use. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide range of keys and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that indicate its current status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys that include dimples. It also comes with clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys, as well being cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event that 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 an emergency lockout.
When you choose to have your car key cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you require will help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating an extra car key and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it could be risky if the key isn't made correctly or the key is not of good quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specialized. These machines can make a laser groove on both sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way, and still function. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive because they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you're sure that you get the correct one for your vehicle. We can even help you connect it to your car if necessary, at less than the price that you would pay at a dealership.