How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially when you lose the only one. The possession of duplicate keys is the best protection against expensive 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 moment. This could be a major hassle since you're unable to get into your vehicle or go to your home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This is faster and less expensive, as well as more convenient.
Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating the original key onto a blank key, using a specialised machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original in both shape and function, making it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your property with an unauthentic.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks usually use keys that have the same style as your current key, but they also can make copies of more elaborate keys like keys for your car or home security.
The most recent technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key-by-photo, and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components which must be programmed properly. These additional components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting is a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able assist you in the event of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which can protect the original keys and decrease the overall wear and wear and. A spare key could be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another secure location if someone is locked out.
A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side an uncut piece of tape. This creates an impression. Key cutters can use this imprint to cut away creating a copy that is the same size and shape to the original.
Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are gone from the other end. This allows the key to fit into locks. Keys can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine applies a blade on the key and then cuts each notch at the required depth. get keys cut can either be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys. This eliminates the need for an expert.
Laser cutting is a newer technique for cutting keys that is used in specific places. Instead of grinding the keys to the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to a serrated blade which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other types of test keys.
A key cutting service may also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that connects to the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However the service cannot make replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. The factors that can affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, if they want an electric or automatic machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the contour of a key in order to create an entirely new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine, but it can also be done using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the key's notch. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from a database.
There are also a range of machines that are able to cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These machines can be expensive however they also allow you to offer an array of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing the tools individually and could be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access a variety of keys, and provides 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 status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys, including dimples. It can also be fitted with clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys, as being Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern keys for cars are more just a piece of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your car and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. That's why it's always wise to have an extra key, so you'll have something to turn to in case you're stuck.
It's important to know the difference between duplication and cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which one you require will save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of creating a spare car key and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods for making keys for replacement, but it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well made 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 is more sophisticated and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can create laser grooves on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. These are often called sidewinder keys and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys so you can be sure to get the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if required, and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at a dealer.