How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are a great option 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 locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one moment, and when that occurs, it could be an extremely stressful day, causing you to be unable to access your home or car. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This process is faster and less expensive, as well as more convenient.
Key cutting is a technique that involves copying an original key onto an uncut key, using a specialised 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 a key-cutting kiosk that you can get a copy made by trained employees within a matter of minutes. These kiosks use an uncut key that is exactly like your existing key. They also can make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like home security or car keys.
The most recent technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. It's called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control car lock systems, or security access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed to function correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, which requires specific equipment.
If you require a spare, key cutting is a quick and easy method to obtain one. However, you should always consult a professional. There are many locksmiths that are not equal, and you should look for a reputable company with a committed team of skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training to handle various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able to provide assistance in case of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to your home or car, or any other safe place if a person has locked themselves out.
Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky side of an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an impression. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make a replica of the original identical in size and shape.
car key cuts is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This allows the key to fit into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces a blade to the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This reduces the need for an expert.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to a serrated blade which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other types of keys for tryouts.
A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, that have an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. The service is not able to create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a myriad of models and some of the factors that could affect a person's choice include 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 want to spend. The machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It could also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from databases.
There are a few tools which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These machines can be expensive however they also make it possible to offer more services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually less expensive than buying individual tools separately and are an excellent investment for anyone who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that show its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It also comes with clamps that can be used to handle flat household and Tibbe keys, as well for cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that require programming to work with your vehicle, and they require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are stolen or lost. This is why it's always a good idea to purchase an extra key so that you have something to go to in the event that you're stuck.
If you decide to have your car key cut it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, key cutting is creating a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require will help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, requires a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it could be risky if the key isn't created properly or the key is not of good quality. Keys that are cut improperly can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specially designed. These machines can create an optical groove on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way while still functioning. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective at protecting against theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ an instrument that can duplicate your car key by using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car if necessary, at less than the price that you would spend at an auto dealer.