How to Get a Car Key Cut
It is costly to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. The possession of duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is car key cutting Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one moment, and when that occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, making it impossible to gain access to your car or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This process is faster and less expensive, as well as more efficient.
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 identical to the original one in terms of shape and function which makes it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your property using a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer an area for cutting keys where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks are equipped with a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They can also make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, such as those used to control the security of car locks or access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
When you need a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of experts who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services as they'll be able to provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and tear. A spare key can also be used if someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or any other safe place since it will allow them to gain access without the assistance of locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional could employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an imprint. Key cutters can use this imprint to cut around the original key, creating a copy which is identical in shape and size to the original.
Another method is to use a pattern grinder, that takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches are gone at the other end. This makes the key easier to insert into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The device then pushes a blade down onto the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. The machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This means that there is no need for an expert.
Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is utilized in specific areas. Instead of grinding keys down to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other types of keys.
Key cutting services can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However it cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming usually reserved for dealerships or automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when someone needs their keys cut. There are a myriad 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 how much they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of an existing key to create the new key. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to put the key's notch. A code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are also a range of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. They can be expensive however they also enable locksmiths to provide more services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are often less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and are an excellent investment for those looking to start an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be easy to use. 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 current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It can be equipped with clamps that can be used to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which need to be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require specialized cutting machinery. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you have something to go to if you find yourself in a bind.
If you're considering having your car key cut it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need can help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a 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 more affordable than other methods, but it can be risky when the key is not made correctly or the key is not of good quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specialized. These machines can create laser grooves on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective at protecting against theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a broad selection of transponder key options which means you're certain to find the right one for your vehicle. We can even help you connect it to your car in case you need to, at a fraction of the cost that you would pay at a dealership.