How to Get a Car Key Cut
It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective way to avoid expensive replacements.
Having your car key cut at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some moment, and when that occurs, it could be an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to gain access to your home or car. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of keys using a specific machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in shape and function, making it impossible for anyone else to unlock your home using a fake.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can have a copy made by trained workers in a matter of minutes. The kiosks typically make use of keys that have the identical design as your current key, however, they also can make copies of more elaborate keys, such as keys for your car or home security.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, come with additional components that must be programmed to function properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in car 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.
If you require an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. There are many locksmiths that are not to be the same, so you must seek out a reputable business with a committed team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with different locking mechanisms and locks. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They can provide assistance in case of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys which can prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another safe location if someone is locked out.
A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate keys. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of the piece of clear tape. Click Link creates an imprint. A key cutter will utilize this imprint to cut it away the original key, creating a copy which is the same dimensions and shape to the original.
A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using punch machines, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade onto the key and then cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys that is used in a few locations. Instead of grinding keys down to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that look like an asymmetrical blade which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of keys for tryouts.
A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or lock. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of types and some of the factors that could influence a person's choice are the type of key they need, whether or not they wish to use an automated or electric machine and how much money they want to spend. The type of machine they select can also impact the quality of their work and how precise it is.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of one key to cut another one. This can be done manually or using a manual machine. It can also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to put the key's notch. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from a database.
There are a few tools that cut mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters and can save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. These machines can be expensive, but they can also make it possible to offer a wider range of services to customers.
Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than buying individual tools separately and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to start a business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad range of keys, and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting the keys. It also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to indicate status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys including dimples. It can also be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as being Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they are lost or taken. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key in case you can use it in the situation of a lockout.
It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making an extra car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods for making keys for replacement however it could be risky if the key isn't properly made or the key blank isn't of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specialized. These machines can cut a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, which means you can be sure that you get the correct one for your car. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if required and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at a dealer.