How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially when it's the only one you have. A backup key is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some moment, and when that occurs, it could be an absolute hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than changing their locks entirely. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient process.
Key cutting is a process that involves replicating an original key onto the blank key using a specialised machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can get a copy made by trained workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks usually use keys with the same design as your existing key, however, they also can make copies of more intricate keys like keys for your car or home security.
The most recent technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services work by significantly reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, which requires specialised equipment.
Key cutting can be a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional assistance when you require one. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should select a reputable company with a team of experts who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. You should also seek out locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able assist you in the event of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which can prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a home, 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 end of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This leaves an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by a key cutter to make a copy of the original identical in size and shape.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder that 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 gone on the other side. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. Additionally, keys 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 forces a blade down onto the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This eliminates the need for an expert.
Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting keys that is utilized in specific places. Instead of grinding down keys to make the proper dimensions, a laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that look like the serrated blades which offers more protection against bump keys and other types of keys for tryouts.
Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which 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 usually reserved for dealerships or automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they want spend. The machine they choose can also impact the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual, but it can be accomplished using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to put the key's notch. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a few machines which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These machines can be expensive, but they can also allow you to offer more services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is a different option. get keys cut are often less expensive than purchasing the tools individually and can be an excellent investment for those who wants to start a business cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad range of keys, and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated as well as LED lights that indicate its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It also comes with clamps that can be used to handle the flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are much more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. It is a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you have something to go to in the event that you're stuck.
It's crucial to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear identical, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional way of making a spare car key and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods for making an alternative car key however it could be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can cut laser grooves on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in preventing theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key using the right blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a variety of transponder keys, so you can be sure to get the right one for your car. We can even help you program it to your vehicle should you require it, for a fraction of the cost that you would spend at an auto dealer.