How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best option to avoid costly replacements.
Cutting your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some time. This could be a major hassle since you're unable to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer to have additional keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient process.
nearest 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 in line with the original one in terms of shape and function, making it impossible for anyone else to access your property with an unauthentic.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can get a copy made by trained workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks are equipped with a blank key that is exactly like your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complicated designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
The most recent technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the process of key duplication by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, which requires special equipment.
Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain an extra key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional assistance when you require one. 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 in dealing with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they can provide assistance in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and decreases wear and wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another secure location if someone is locked out.
To make a duplicate key, a professional could either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an imprint. This impression can be utilized by key cutters to create a replica of the original identical in size and shape.
A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes the key easier to fit into locks. Keys can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces a blade down onto the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. These machines can be manual or electric, and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.
A newer type of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down keys to get the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to a serrated blade, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other types of test keys.
A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, that have an embedded chip that connects to the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it is important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the size and style of the key, if they want an electric or automated machine, and the amount they want spend. The type of machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create an entirely new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine but it can also be done with the use of a laser machine or code. These machines will typically require a code that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a few tools that cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These machines can be expensive however they can enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and can be a good investment for someone who wants to get into the 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 many keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It can be equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to invest in an extra key so that you have something to turn to in the event that you find yourself in a pinch.
It is important to understand the difference between duplication and cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, key cutting is making a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the type of service you require will save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making an extra car key and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making an alternative car key however, it can be risky if the key isn't properly made or the key blank isn't high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can make an optical groove on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing in any way, and still function. These are often called sidewinder keys and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the right blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a variety of transponder keys, which means you can be sure that you get the correct one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car, if you require it, and at a fraction as the cost you would pay at a dealer.