How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great option to avoid costly replacements.
Cutting your car keys at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some point, and when this happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, causing you to be unable to gain access to your car or home. Most people prefer to have extra keys made rather than changing their locks. laser key cutting is a quicker and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is a method that involves copying the original key onto a blank key, by using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can obtain a duplicate made by trained employees in a matter of minutes. These kiosks typically use keys that have the same style as your current key, but they also can make copies of more elaborate keys like keys for home or car security.
The most advanced 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. This is referred to as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components such as the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
When you need an extra key, cutting it is a fast and simple way to get one. However you should always seek advice from an expert. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of experts who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, as they will be able to assist in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which can prevent damage to the original keys and decrease overall wear and wear and. In addition, spare keys can be used when someone is locked out of their car, home or other secure area since it will allow them to gain entry without the assistance of locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional may 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 an uncut piece of tape. This creates an impression. This impression can be utilized by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.
Another method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed on the other side. This allows you 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. The device then pushes an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.
A newer form of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to make the correct dimensions, a laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other kinds of keys.
Key cutting services can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs which feature an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However it isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision are the size and type of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, and the amount they want spend. The tool they select will also affect the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine however, it could also be done using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the notch on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a few tools which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These machines can be expensive, but they can also make it possible to offer a wider range of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine as well as the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and can be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad variety of keys and offers steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. The machine also has a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It can be equipped with optional clamps to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can use it in the case of an emergency lockout.
It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem identical, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of creating an extra car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating a replacement car key, but it can be risky when the key isn't correctly made or the key blank isn't high-quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specially designed. These machines can create laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way and still function. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in preventing theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will choose the right key blank for your year, make and model, and then use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys so you'll be able that you get the correct one for your car. 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 an auto dealer.