How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.
Cutting your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one moment, and when that occurs, it could be an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is faster and cheaper as well as more practical.
Key cutting is the process of creating a key using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can have a copy made by trained workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks typically use keys with the same design as your existing key, but they also can make copies of more intricate keys like car or home security keys.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is called key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip that is found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, which requires specialised equipment.
If key cut places near me require an extra key, cutting it is a fast and simple method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a staff of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths that offer emergency services as they'll be able to provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and tear. A spare key can also be used when someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other safe place as it can allow the person to gain entry without the assistance of locksmith.
A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an imprint. Key cutters can make use of this imprint to cut around, making a copy that is exactly the same in dimensions and shape to the original.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches are gone at the other end. This makes it easier to insert into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The device then pushes an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys, reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
A newer type of key cutting technique is also being used in some places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to create the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to the serrated blades that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of test keys.
A key cutting service can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that connects to the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However it cannot create replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming often reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of types, but some factors that can influence a person's choice are the type of key they require as well as whether or not they wish to use an automated or electric machine, and how much they are willing to spend. The machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual however, it could also be done with a code or laser machine. 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 few tools that cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. They are expensive but can offer a greater variety of services.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and could be a good option for those looking to venture into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access a variety of keys, and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys, including dimples. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle flat household and Tibbe keys, as well being Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your vehicle, and they require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in a spare key, so you have something to go to if you're stuck.
When you choose to have your car keys cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While auto key cutting machine may seem similar, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, uses the key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto the blank key. This method is cheaper than other options, but it is risky if the key isn't created properly or the blank is of poor quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent your key from working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specially designed. These machines can cut a laser groove on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing either way and still function. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use a special machine to duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year and make. We have a broad selection of transponder key options, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even assist you to programme it to your car if necessary, at only a fraction of the price that you would pay at the dealership.