How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. A backup key is the best defense against expensive replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. There aren't all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses keys at some moment, and when that happens, it can be an extremely stressful day, making it impossible to get into your car or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks entirely. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more efficient.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key 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 where you can have a copy made by trained employees in a matter of minutes. These kiosks usually use 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.
The most advanced technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is known as key-by-photo, and it revolutionises the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. 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 fit into and require specialized equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting is a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional assistance when you require one. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should select a reputable company with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to find locksmiths who offer emergency services as they will be able to help in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used if one is locked out of their home, car or any other secure location because it allows them to gain access without the need for a locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional may either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. When using just click the up coming document tracing method, 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. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut around, making a copy that is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.
A pattern grinder is another popular method. It grinds the original key until it has a flat surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to fit into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The machine applies a blade onto the key and cuts each notch at the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This reduces the need for an expert.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being used in some places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to make the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types of keys.
Key cutting services can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs which feature an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service cannot create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automated machine, and how much they'd like to spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the outline of a key to create an entirely new key. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual however, it could also be done using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to put the notch on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from a database.
There are also a number of machines that are able to cut both mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters and can help locksmiths save time by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. They are expensive however they can provide a wider variety of services.
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 are a great investment for someone who wants to start a business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be simple to use. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad range of keys and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. The machine also has an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the its status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys, including dimples. It can be equipped with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more just a piece made of metal. They have transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require specialized cutting machinery. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they get lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key so that you can utilize it in the situation of an emergency lockout.
If you're considering having your car keys cut, it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you need can help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires the key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of making keys for replacement however it could be risky when the key isn't correctly made or the key blank isn't of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can create an optical groove on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a variety of transponder key options, so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if required, and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at the dealer.