How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially in the event that you lose only one. A backup key is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer 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 their keys at some time. This could be a huge inconvenience since you're unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. A majority of people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This process is faster and cheaper as well as more efficient.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key using a special machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original one in terms of design and function which makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your home using an imitation.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can have a copy made by trained workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks make use of an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complex designs, such as home security or car keys.
The most recent technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the process of key duplication by reducing costs and time.
Modern electronic keys, like those used to control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components, such as a transponder chip in vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require special equipment to duplicate properly.
If you require a spare, key cutting is a fast and simple way to get one. However you should always seek advice from an expert. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should select a reputable company with a staff of professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they can provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys, which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and wear and. A spare key can also be used when someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other secure location because it allows them to gain access without requiring the services of locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional may either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. With 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 the clear tape to leave an imprint. A key cutter will utilize this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is exactly the same in dimensions and shape to the original.
A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting keys that is used in a few places. Instead of grinding down the keys to create the proper dimensions, a laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other types of keys.
A key cutting service can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, that have an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the right key-cutting machine when you need your keys cut. There are a variety of types however, some elements that can affect a person's choice include the type of key they require and whether or not they want to use an automated or electric machine, and how much money they want to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done manually or using a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the notch on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from the database.
There are several machines that cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks at the same time. They can be expensive however they can make it possible to offer an array of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine and tools required to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and can be an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to 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 as well as LED lights that show its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It can also be fitted with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well for cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which must be programmed to work with your vehicle and require cutting machines that are specialized. This means they are more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. It is a good idea to purchase an extra key so that you have something to turn to in case you're in a bind.
It is important to understand the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. While cutting car keys near me might appear similar, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making a spare car key, and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of making keys for replacement, but it can be risky when the key isn't correctly constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. A poorly cut key could cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specifically designed. These machines can make an optical groove on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. They are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive since they're more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year and make. We have a broad selection of transponder key options so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can even help you connect it to your car should you require it, for only a fraction of the price that you would spend at a dealership.