How to Get a Car Key Cut
It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly in the case of only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best protection against expensive replacements.
Having your car key cut at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. key car cutting or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some moment, and when that happens, it can be an extremely stressful day, causing you to be unable to access your car or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient process.
Key cutting is a method that involves copying an original key on an uncut key, using a specialised machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original one in terms of shape and function, making it impossible for anyone else to unlock your home using an unauthentic.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer 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 trained employee. These kiosks usually use keys with the same style as your current key, but they can also cut copies of more complicated keys, such as car or home security keys.
The most advanced technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, such as keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to work correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes 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 an extra key quickly and easily, but you should always seek professional assistance when you require it. There are navigate here that are not to be the same, so you must seek out a reputable business with a team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with different locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to find a locksmith that offers emergency services as they can provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall 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 secure location because it allows them to gain access without the need for locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional can either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the end of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of an uncut piece of tape. This creates an imprint. Key cutters can make use of this imprint to cut it away creating a copy that is the same shape and size 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 and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. A key can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then presses a blade down onto the key cutting each notch until the required depth. These machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is used in certain locations. Instead of grinding the keys down to the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The keys resemble an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other types of keys.
A key cutting service may 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 can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the right machine to cut keys when you need your keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision include the size and style of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of one key to cut another one. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual however, it could be accomplished using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the key's notch. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a few machines that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These are costly, but can offer a greater range of services.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are usually less expensive than buying individual tools and can be an excellent investment for those who wants to start an operation that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be easy to use. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad range of keys, and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting the keys. It also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys, including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with optional clamps to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which need to be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It is a good idea to have an extra key, so you'll have something to turn to in case you find yourself in a bind.
When you choose to have your car key cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need will save you money and time in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, involves using the key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it can be risky when the key isn't created properly or the key is not of good quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can cut a laser groove on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder in either way while still functioning. They are commonly called sidewinder keys and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will choose the right key blank for your year, model, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys, which means you'll be able to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if needed and at a fraction as the cost you would pay at dealers.