How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some point. This can be a major hassle because you're unable get into your vehicle or go to your home. A majority of people prefer to have extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is faster and less expensive, as well as more efficient.
Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating an original key on a blank key, with a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the key matches the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can obtain a duplicate 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 keys for car keys or home security.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is called key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services operate by significantly reducing the time and cost involved.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should seek out a reputable business with a dedicated team of skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training to handle different locks and locking mechanisms. You should also seek out a locksmith who offers emergency services. They can assist you in the event of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys which can protect keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a home or car, or any other safe location if someone is locked out.
To create a duplicate key, a professional can choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side of a piece clear tape. This leaves an impression. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create a replica of the original that is identical in size and shape.
A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a flat surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using punch machines, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. A device then forces a blade to the key cutting each notch until the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys that is used in certain locations. Instead of grinding the keys to the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other kinds of keys.
Key cutting services 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. However it cannot create replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming often reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the correct key-cutting machine for someone needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of models however, some elements that can affect a person's choice include the kind of key they require and whether or not they wish to use an automated or electric machine and how much money they want to spend. The type of machine they select can also impact the quality of their work and how accurate it is.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of one key to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It could also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines will typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from databases.
There are also a range of machines that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They can reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These tools can be costly however they also make it possible to offer an array of services to customers.
Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine and the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to get into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be easy to use. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable lets users access a wide range of keys and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to show the status, according to Ilco. key cuts for cars is able to cut and decode a variety of keys that include dimples. It is able to be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key in case you can access it in the situation of a lockout.
It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying a key. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making an extra car key and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of creating keys for replacement, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly constructed or the key blank isn't 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 machine that is specialized. These machines can make a laser groove on both 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. These keys are also more expensive since they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use an instrument that can duplicate your car key by using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We have a variety of transponder key options which means you're certain to find the one that is right 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 dealers.