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.
Cutting your car keys at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. There aren't all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some time. This can be a major hassle since you're unable to get into your vehicle or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than change their locks completely. This is a quicker and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of a key using a special machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in both shape and function which makes it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your property with an imitation.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer an area for cutting keys where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained worker. The kiosks typically make use of a key blank that has the same design as your existing key, however, they also can make copies of more complicated keys, such as keys for home or car security.
The most recent technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. This is called key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services function by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points have additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip that is found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
When you need a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However, you should always consult a professional. key cutting services near me is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths who provide emergency services. They can provide assistance in case of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to the original keys and decrease the overall wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another safe place if a person has locked themselves out.
To create a duplicate key, a professional could employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an imprint. A key cutter will utilize this imprint to cut around the original key, creating a copy which is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.
A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a flat surface on one end 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 device forces a blade onto the key and then cuts each notch at the required depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This means that there is no need for an expert.
A newer type of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down the keys to create the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that resemble a serrated blade which offers more protection against bump keys and other types of tryout keys.
A key cutting service may also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that communicates with the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. The service is not able to make replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it is important to find the right key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision are the size and style of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.
Most key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create an entirely new key. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done with the laser or a code machine. These machines will typically require a code that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are a few tools which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. They can be expensive however they can enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and tools required to operate it. These kits are often cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and are an excellent investment for anyone who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access various keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. It also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights that indicate the its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys that include dimple keys. It can also be fitted with clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more just a piece made of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which must be programmed to work with your car, and they require cutting machines that are specialized. This makes them more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can access it in the case of an emergency lockout.
It's crucial to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require will help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, involves using a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it can be risky when the key isn't created correctly or the blank is of poor quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specifically designed. These machines can create laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder in either way while still functioning. These are often called sidewinder keys, and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys since 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 correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a variety of transponder key options, so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if you require it and for a fraction of the cost much as you would pay at a dealer.