How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, particularly if it is the only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best protection against expensive replacements.
Cutting your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some point. This can be a major inconvenience, because you're unable access your vehicle or go to your home. A majority of people prefer having extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is faster and less expensive, as well as more efficient.
Key cutting is a technique that involves replicating the original key onto an uncut key, by using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original one in terms of design and function, making it impossible for anyone else to access your property using a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting station where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks typically use keys that have the same design as your existing key, however, they can also make copies of more complicated keys, such as keys for home or car security.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. This is called key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services work by drastically reducing the time and cost involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points have additional components which must be programmed to work correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip found in car keys and the embedded microchip found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring specific equipment.
Key cutting is a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are created equally, so seek out a reputable business with a committed team of highly skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to handle various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to locate locksmiths that offer emergency services as they will be able to help in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and decreases 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 entry without requiring the services of a locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional could choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the end of the key until it is black and pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. A key cutter will utilize this imprint to cut away creating a copy that is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.
Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder that takes the original key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches are removed at the other end. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device forces an edge onto the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines can either be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This reduces the need for a specialist.
Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting keys that is used in a few places. Instead of grinding keys to make the right dimensions, a laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other types of keys.
A key cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the right key-cutting machine when you need your keys cut. There are a variety of types, but some factors that affect a person's choice include the type of key they need as well as whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much money they want to spend. The tool they select will also influence the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or code machine. These machines typically require a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are also a number of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks at the same time. These machines can be expensive however they can allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are typically cheaper than buying tools on their own and can be a good option for those looking to start a business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large variety of keys and offers steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting the keys. The machine also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to indicate status, according to Ilco. cutting car key is able to decode and cut many different keys including dimples. It can be equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. That's why it's always wise to have an extra key so that you have something to go to in the event that you find yourself stuck.
It is important to understand the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require can save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of making a spare car key and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is cheaper than others, but is risky if the key isn't made properly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specifically designed. These machines can create an optical groove on both flat sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing in any way while still functioning. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key blank for your year, model, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options which means you're certain to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can also help you connect it to your car if necessary, at a fraction of the cost that you would pay at a dealership.