How to Get a Car Key Cut
It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this occurs, it could be an absolute hiccup in your day, causing you to be unable to get into your home or car. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than changing their locks entirely. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the key matches the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can get a copy created by skilled workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks make use of keys that are blank and exactly like your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as home security or car keys.
The latest technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services work by significantly reducing the time and cost involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points have additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require special equipment to duplicate properly.
If you require an extra key, cutting it is a fast and simple method of getting one. However, you should always consult a professional. Not all locksmiths are to be the same, so you must choose a reputable firm with a team of skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to locate a locksmith that offers emergency services as they can help in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the making of spare keys, which can protect keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and tear. A spare key can also be used when one is locked out of their car, home or any other safe place because it allows them to gain access without requiring the services of locksmith.
A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. This impression can be used by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original that is identical in size and shape.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine forces an edge 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 a variety of keys. This reduces the need for a specialist.
Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is used in certain areas. Instead of grinding down keys to make the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys look like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.
A key cutting service can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many different types, but some factors that affect a person's choice include the kind of key they require as well as whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric device, and the much they are willing to spend. The type of machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key to create the new key. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. key cut place near me can also be done with the laser or a code machine. These machines will typically need codes that tell the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are also a number of machines that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. They can be expensive however they also allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.
Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than buying tools on their own and are a great investment for someone who wants to start a business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and allows users to access various keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the its status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It also comes with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well being cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they get stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can access it in the situation of an emergency lockout.
It's crucial to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, key cutting is creating a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you need will help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making a spare car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of creating keys for replacement however, it can be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't of high-quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent your key from working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on both flat sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing either way, and still function. 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 because they are more complicated and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use an instrument that can duplicate your car key using the appropriate blank for your car's year and make. We have a broad selection of transponder key options, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even help you program it to your vehicle should you require it, for only a fraction of the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.