How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best option to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. Not all locksmith or hardware 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 car or home. A majority of people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This process is faster and cheaper as well as more convenient.
Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating the original key onto a blank key, by using a special machine. This is done to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can get a copy made by trained employees within a matter of minutes. These kiosks use a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They can also make copies of keys with more complex designs, like home security or car keys.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. It's called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the method of key duplication by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys, such as those used to control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate correctly.
If you require an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy way to get one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. Not all locksmiths are created equally, so seek out a reputable business with a team of highly skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training to handle various locking mechanisms and locks. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, as they will be able to assist in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which can protect original keys and reduce overall wear and wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used if someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other safe place because it allows them to gain access without the assistance of locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional can either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut it away creating a copy that is exactly the same in dimensions and shape to the original.
Another common method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed on the other side. This allows you to insert the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with a punch machine, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The machine applies a blade onto the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines can either be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.
Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys, which is employed in specific places. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the side of the key. This results in keys that resemble a serrated blade that provides greater protection against bump keys and other kinds of test keys.
A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs that have an embedded chip that communicates with the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. However the service cannot make replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the correct key-cutting machine for someone needs their keys cut. There are many different types however, some elements that can influence a person's choice are the kind of key they require as well as whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric machine, and how much money they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut a new one. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine however, it could be accomplished using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the notch on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a few machines which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These tools can be costly 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 as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are often cheaper than purchasing the tools individually, and can be an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch an operation that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be easy to use. key cut place that is removable allows users to access a large variety of keys and offers steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. Ilco states that the machine has an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that show its current status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys that include dimples. It can be equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle and require cutting machines that are specialized. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can use it in the event of an emergency lockout.
If you decide to have your car key cut, it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need can save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making a spare car key, and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods, but it is risky if the key isn't made properly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specifically designed. These machines can create an optical groove on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. They are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, make, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, so you'll be able that you get the correct one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if you require it and at a fraction of the cost you would pay at dealers.