How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective way to avoid expensive replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some time. This could be a major inconvenience, as you are unable to get into your vehicle or go to your home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This process is faster, cheaper, and more convenient.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key using a special machine. This is done in order 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 get a copy made by trained workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks use an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complicated designs, like home security or car keys.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes 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 that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components, like 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 fit into and require special equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. There are many locksmiths that are not equally, so seek out a reputable business with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training to handle different locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to locate locksmiths that offer emergency services as they'll be able to provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another secure location if someone has locked themselves out.
To make a duplicate key, a professional can either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side an uncut piece of tape. This creates an impression. This imprint can be utilized by a key cutter to make a replica of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.
A pattern grinder is a different common method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface on one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows you to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. mobile key cutting applies a blade onto the key and cuts each notch at the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.
A newer form of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to make the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys.
A key cutting service may create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However it cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are many different types however, some elements that could influence a person's decision include the type of key they require as well as whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric machine and how much money they want to spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work and how precise it is.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of one key to cut a new one. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It could also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the key's notch. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are also a range of machines that are able to cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. They are expensive however, they offer a wider variety of services.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are often cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and are an excellent investment for anyone looking to start an operation that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. It also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It can be equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than a mere piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that is programmed to your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. This is why it's always a good idea to have a spare key, so you have something to turn to in the event that you're stuck.
If you're considering having your car key cut it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem similar, key cutting is making a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making a spare car key, and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods, but it is risky if the key is not made correctly or the key is not of good quality. Keys that are cut improperly can damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way and still function. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in stopping theft than normal keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will select the correct key blank for your year, make and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a variety of transponder key options so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if needed, and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at the dealer.