How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are a great method to avoid costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some point. This could be a major inconvenience, because you're unable get into your vehicle or home. The majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a quicker and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original in form and function, making it impossible for someone else to unlock your property using an imitation.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can get a copy created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks are equipped with a blank 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.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. It's called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing costs and time.
Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control car lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that must be programmed to function properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring specific equipment.
If you require a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick way to get one. However, you should always consult a professional. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a team of professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths that offer emergency services as they'll be able to help in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys, which can prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used when someone is locked out of their car, home or any other safe place as it can allow them to gain access without the need for locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional may either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side of an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an impression. A key cutter can then use this imprint to cut around the original key, creating a copy which is the same size and shape to the original.
Another method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear from the other end. This makes it easier to insert into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then forces a blade down onto the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
A newer type of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys down to the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that resemble the serrated blades, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of test keys.
A key cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or lock. The service is not able to create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when someone needs their keys cut. There are many different types, but some factors that influence a person's choice are the kind of key they require as well as whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work and how precise it is.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create an entirely new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or code machine. key cutting car will typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are a variety of machines available that 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 however they also allow you to offer an array of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and could be a good investment for anyone who wishes to start a business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray built-in as well as 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 clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
key cutting services Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your car, and they require specialized cutting machinery. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It is a good idea to invest in an extra key so that you have something to go to in the event that you're in a pinch.
If you're considering having your car key cut it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying a key. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making an extra car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is cheaper than others, but could be risky if the key is not made properly or the key is not of good quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ an instrument that can duplicate your car key by using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you're sure to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if needed and for a fraction of the cost much as you would pay at a dealer.