How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. Having duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses keys at some point, and when this occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, making it impossible to gain access to your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than replacing their locks. This process is quicker and cheaper as well as more convenient.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is identical to the original one in terms of design and function which makes it impossible for anyone else to unlock your home using a fake.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can have a copy made by trained employees within a matter of minutes. These kiosks usually use keys that have the same style as your current key, but they can also make copies of more elaborate keys, such as keys for home or car security.
The latest technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. It's called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components which must be programmed correctly. These additional components, like a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to fit into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting is a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. There are many locksmiths that are not equally, so seek out a reputable business with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locking mechanisms and locks. You should also look for locksmiths who provide emergency services. They can help you out in the event of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another secure location if someone has locked themselves out.
To make a duplicate key, a professional could either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the tip of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side a piece clear tape. This creates an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by key cutters to create a copy of the original exactly the same size and shape.
Another option is to use a pattern grinder, that takes the original key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches are removed at the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine applies a blade on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This eliminates the requirement for an expert.
A newer form of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to create the right dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that look like the serrated blades, which provides more protection against bump keys and other types of test keys.
Key cutting services are also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. However, the service cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
car key cutting near me Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when a person needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, if they want an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they want spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality and precision of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the notch on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are also a number of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These machines are expensive, however, they offer a wider variety of services.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and could be a good investment for anyone who wishes to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. The machine also has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate the status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys that include dimple keys. It can also be fitted with optional clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys as well for cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern keys for cars are more just a piece made of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which must be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they get lost or stolen. It is a good idea to purchase an extra key so that you have something to turn to if you find yourself in a bind.
It is important to understand the difference between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require will save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, uses a key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating keys for replacement, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly constructed 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 functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specialized. These machines can make laser grooves on both sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way while still functioning. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective at preventing theft than regular keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a broad selection of transponder key options so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can even assist you to programme it to your car should you require it, for less than the price that you would pay at a dealership.