How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. A backup key is the best protection against expensive replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto key cutting machine retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This could be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. A majority of people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient process.
Key cutting is a technique that involves duplicating the original key onto the blank key by using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key matches the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks typically use a key blank that has the same style as your current key, but they also can make copies of more elaborate keys like car or home security keys.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. This is known as key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services work by drastically reducing the time and cost involved.
Modern electronic keys, like those used to control the security of car locks or access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to function properly. These other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes, communicate with the system they're designed to integrate 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 it. There are many locksmiths that are not equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a dedicated team of highly skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locking mechanisms and locks. You should also seek out locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
van key cutting cutting can be used to make spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used in the event that someone is locked out of their car, home or any other safe place since it will allow them to gain access without the need for a locksmith.
To create a duplicate key, a professional may either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter can then 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 another commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a flat surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with punch machines. A punch machine takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade on 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 different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.
A newer form of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to the right dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the side of the key. This results in keys that resemble a serrated blade that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of tryout keys.
Key cutting services are also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. The service is not able to create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut in my area cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many different types, but some factors that can affect a person's choice include the kind of key they require, whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric machine, and how much money they'd like to spend. The machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create a new key. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine, but it can be accomplished using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the key's notch. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are a variety of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks at the same time. They can be expensive however they can make it possible to offer an array of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a set that contains the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are often less expensive than buying the tools individually, and can be an excellent investment for those who wants to start a business cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access various keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate its state. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys including dimples. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle flat household and Tibbe keys, as being Cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more simply a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It's always a good idea to have a spare car key cutting key so that you can use it in the event of a lockout.
If you're considering having your car key cut it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying a key. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, requires the key-cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods, but it can be risky when the key is not made properly or the key is not of good quality. A poorly cut key could harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can cut laser grooves on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. They are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys so you'll be able to get the right one for your car. We can assist you with programming the key to your car, if required, and at a fraction of price as you would at the dealer.