How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, especially when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective way to avoid expensive replacements.
Cutting your car keys at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some point. This could be a huge inconvenience since you're unable to get into your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This process is faster, cheaper, and more convenient.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original in shape and function and makes it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your home using a fake.
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 skilled worker. These kiosks make use of an uncut key that is identical to your current 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 most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. This is known as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services function by drastically reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components like the transponder chip in car keys and the embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
Key cutting can be the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose Look At This with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find 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 permits the creation of spare keys, which can prevent damage to the original keys and decrease overall wear and wear and. A spare key could be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another safe location if someone has locked themselves out.
A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be used by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.
Another option is to employ a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This allows the key to be fitted into locks. Keys can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine forces a blade on the key and then cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys down to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the side of the key. The keys look like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types.
A key cutting service may also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, that have an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However it cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision are the size and style of the key, if they want an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they want spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine however, it could also be done using a code or laser 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 the database.
There are a few machines that cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These are costly, however, they offer a wider variety of services.
Another alternative is to buy a set that contains the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically 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. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that show its status. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys including dimples. It can be equipped with clamps that can be used to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as 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 get stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep an extra key in case you can utilize it in the situation of an emergency lockout.
When you choose to have your car key cut it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is less expensive than other options, but it can be risky when the key isn't created correctly or the key is not of good quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could harm the lock's cylinder, and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specialized. These machines can create laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in protecting against theft than regular keys. These keys are also more expensive because they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will select the correct key blank for your year, make, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if required, and at a fraction as price as you would at a dealer.