How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some time. This can be a major inconvenience, since you're unable to get into your vehicle or go to your home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks entirely. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is the process of creating keys using a specific machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in shape and function which makes it impossible for anyone else to unlock your property with a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate made by trained workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks make use of an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They can also make copies of keys with more complex designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is known as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components which must be programmed to work properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, requiring specific equipment.
When you need a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick way to get one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able provide assistance in case of an emergency lockout.
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 wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another safe location if someone has locked themselves out.
To create a duplicate key, a professional may employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. 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 impression. This imprint can be utilized by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original identical in size and shape.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This allows the key to insert into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys. This eliminates the need for an expert.
Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting key s that is utilized in specific locations. Instead of grinding the keys to the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.
Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. The service can't make replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the correct key-cutting machine for a person needs their keys cut. There are many different types and some of the factors that could influence a person's choice are the type of key they require as well as whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric machine, and how much they are willing to spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work and how precise it is.
The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut another one. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to put the key's notch. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from a database.
There are a variety of machines that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. They can be expensive however they can enable locksmiths to provide more services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and can be an excellent investment for someone who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that show its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys, including dimple keys. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle the flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have an extra key in case you can use it in the case of an emergency lockout.
If you're considering having your car keys cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires the key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is cheaper than others, but could be risky if the key is not made correctly or the key is not of good quality. Insufficiently-cut key can harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specifically designed. These machines can cut an optical groove on both flat sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way, and still function. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and harder to find at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use an instrument that can duplicate your car key using the appropriate blank for your car's year and make. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, so you'll be able to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can even assist you to program it to your vehicle should you require it, for only a fraction of the price that you would pay at a dealership.