How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. Not all hardware or locksmith stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This could be a major inconvenience, because you're unable access your vehicle or home. The majority of people prefer to have extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is a technique that involves duplicating the original key onto a blank key, by using a special machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in form and function which makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property using an imitation.
A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can have a copy made by trained workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks make use of an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as keys for car keys or home security.
The latest technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the way key duplication services work by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points have additional components that need to be programmed properly. These additional components such as the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.
If you require a spare, key cutting is a fast and simple method to obtain one. However you should always seek advice from an expert. There are many locksmiths that are not equally, so choose a reputable firm with a dedicated team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to locate a locksmith that offers emergency services as they can provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a house, car, or other secure location if someone has locked themselves outside.
A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate keys. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make a copy of the original exactly the same size and shape.
Another common method is to make use of a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches are gone at the other end. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The device forces a blade on the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. The machines can be either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is used in a few areas. Instead of grinding keys down to the correct dimensions, the laser is used 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.
A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. However, the service isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the correct key-cutting machine for a person needs their keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, whether they want an electric or automatic machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine. It can also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to put the notch on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a few tools which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These are costly, but can offer a greater range of services.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are often less expensive than buying individual tools and are an excellent investment for someone looking to start an operation that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access various keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. It also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys that include dimples. It also comes with optional clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. get keys cut makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It is a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you'll have something to turn to if you're in a pinch.
If you decide to have your car key cut, it's crucial to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem identical, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is 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 more affordable than other methods, but it 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 your key from working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can cut laser grooves on both flat sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder in either way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use an instrument that can duplicate your car key using the correct blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys so you'll be able to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if needed, and at a fraction of the cost you would pay at a dealer.