How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, especially when it's the only one you have. The possession of duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut 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?
Everybody loses their keys at some point. This can be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This is faster, cheaper, and more convenient.
Key cutting is a technique that involves replicating an original key onto the blank key with a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can obtain a duplicate made by trained workers in a matter of minutes. The kiosks typically make use of keys that have the same design as your existing key, but they can also make copies of more elaborate keys such as car or home security keys.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. This is called key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services work by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost.
Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control car lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed to function correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require specific equipment.
When you need a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a staff of professionals who have received a rigorous education to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able to provide assistance in case of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to your home, car, or other secure location if someone has locked themselves out.
To make a duplicate key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be used by a key cutter to make a copy of the original that is identical to its size and shape.
A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The machine applies a blade onto the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
A newer form of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to the correct dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types.
Key cutting services can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However, the service isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and automobile 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 influence a person's choice are the type of key they need, whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric device, and the much they are willing to spend. The machine they choose can also influence the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done with a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to put the key's notch. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are several machines which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These tools can be costly, but they can also make it possible to offer a wider range of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and could be a good investment for anyone who wishes to get into the business of cutting key s.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a large range of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that show its state. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with optional clamps to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. They are more costly to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have an extra key in case you can access it in the case of an emergency lockout.
If you decide to have your car keys cut, it's crucial to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem similar, key cutting is creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which one you require can save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making a spare car key, and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods for making a replacement car key however, it can be risky when the key isn't correctly created or the key blank isn't made of high-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 create a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and harder to find at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use a special machine to duplicate your car key by using the appropriate blank for your car's year and make. We have a variety of transponder key options so you're sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car if necessary, at a fraction of the cost that you would spend at a dealership.