How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses keys at some time, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, making it impossible to get into your car or home. The majority of people prefer to have extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of keys using a specific machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks typically use a key blank that has the identical design as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more elaborate keys, such as car or home security keys.
The latest technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. This is called key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services operate 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 correctly. These additional components, such as a transponder chip in vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes, 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, however you should always seek professional assistance when you require it. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of experts who have received a rigorous education to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able to help you out in the event of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce overall wear and wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used if one is locked out of their home, car or other secure area since it will allow them to gain access without the need for locksmith.
A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. The tracing method involves heating the tip of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of an uncut piece of tape. This creates an impression. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original exactly the same size and shape.
A pattern grinder is another popular 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 allows the key to be fitted into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade onto the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a newer technique for cutting keys that is utilized in a few areas. Instead of grinding keys to make the correct dimensions the laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to an asymmetrical blade that provides greater protection against bump keys and other types of tryout keys.
Key cutting services are also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. The service is not able to create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is normally reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision are the size and type of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of one key to cut a new one. This can be done manually or with a manual machine however, it could be accomplished using a laser or code. These machines 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 downloaded from a database.
There are a few machines which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These tools can be costly however they can make it possible to offer a wider range of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and could be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting the keys. Ilco states that the machine has an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that show its state. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys, including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which need to be programmed to work with your vehicle and require specialized cutting machinery. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. That's why it's always wise to invest in a spare key, so you'll have something to turn to if you find yourself in a pinch.
When you choose to have your car key cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of making a spare car key, and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it is risky if the key isn't created 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 your key to stop working.
Laser nearest key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specially designed. These machines can create laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing either way, and still function. These are often referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make and model, and then utilize a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a broad selection of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car if you require it and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at a dealer.