How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. A backup key is the best defense against expensive replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But 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 can cause a real hiccup in your day, causing you to be unable to access your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is faster and cheaper as well as more convenient.
Key cutting is a process that involves copying an original key onto a blank key, with a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks make use of keys that are blank and exactly like your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complex designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is called key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components like the transponder chip found in car keys and the embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring specialised equipment.
Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain an extra key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional assistance when you require it. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. You should also seek out locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able to help you out in the event of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys which can protect the original keys and decrease the overall wear and wear and. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that someone is locked out of their car, home or any other safe place as it can allow the person to gain entry without the need for a locksmith.
A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create a copy of the original identical to its size and shape.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. car key cutting can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The machine forces a blade on the key and cuts each notch at the required depth. These machines are electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This reduces the need for an expert.
A newer form of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to make the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that look like 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 which feature an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However, the service isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are many different types, but some factors that could affect a person's choice include the type of key they require, whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric device, and the much money they want to spend. The machine they choose can also impact the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the contour of a key in order to cut another one. This can be done manually or using a manual machine but it can also be done with a laser or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the key's notch. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a few tools which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks at the same time. These are costly, however they can provide a wider range of services.
Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing individual tools, and can be an excellent investment for someone planning to launch a business cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be simple to use. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a broad range of keys and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that indicate its state. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys that include dimples. It is equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which must be programmed to work with your vehicle and require cutting machines that are specialized. They are more costly to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to invest in an extra key, so you have something to go to in the event that you're stuck.
It is important to understand the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you need will help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making a spare car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making an alternative car key however it could be risky when the key isn't correctly constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create an optical groove on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way and still function. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. They are also more expensive because they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key using the right blank for your vehicle's year and make. We have a variety of transponder key options, so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if needed and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at the dealer.