How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially when you lose the only one. Having duplicate keys is the best protection against costly replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some time, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to gain access to your home or car. A majority of people prefer having extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating an original key onto an uncut key, using a specialised machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original in design and function, making it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property using an imitation.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer an area for cutting keys where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks typically use keys that have the same design as your existing key, but they also can make copies of more complicated keys such as keys for your car 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 onto a blank key. This is referred to as key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services operate by drastically 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 need to be programmed in order to function correctly. These other components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into and require specialized equipment to duplicate correctly.
Key cutting can be a great way to get an extra key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are created equally, so choose a reputable firm with a dedicated team of highly skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to handle various locking mechanisms and locks. You should also look for locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used in the event that someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other secure location since it will allow them to gain entry without the need for locksmith.
Professionals can employ either the punching or tracing method to duplicate keys. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be utilized by key cutters to create a copy of the original identical in size and shape.
A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. laser key cutting near me grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to fit into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade on the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either manual or electric, and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is used in specific locations. Instead of grinding the keys to create the proper dimensions, a laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that resemble a serrated blade that provides greater protection against bump keys and other kinds of keys for tryouts.
A key cutting service can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are many different types however, some elements that can affect a person's choice include the type of key they need and whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much they are willing to spend. The type of machine they select will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of 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 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. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a variety of machines available that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These tools can be costly however they can allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately, and can be an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access a variety of keys, and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. It also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to show the its status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys including dimples. It also comes with clamps that can be used to handle the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which needs to be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in a spare key, so you have something to turn to in case you're stuck.
When you choose to have your car key cut it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear similar, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require will save you money and time in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of creating an extra car key and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of creating an alternative car key, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly constructed or the key blank isn't high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specialized. These machines can create a laser groove on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way while still functioning. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive since they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use a special machine to duplicate your car key by using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can even assist you to program it to your vehicle in case you need to, at less than the price that you would pay at the dealership.