How to Get a Car Key Cut
It is costly to replace the keys to your car, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great method to avoid costly replacements.
Cutting your car keys at an automotive store like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one point, and when this occurs, it can cause an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to get into your home or car. The majority of people prefer to have additional keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is a method that involves duplicating an original key on the blank key using a specialised machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in both shape and function and makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property using a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have an area for cutting keys where you can get a copy made in minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks make use of a blank key that is exactly like your existing key. They can also make copies of keys with more complex designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
The most recent technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. This is referred to as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the amount of time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, like those used to control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed to work correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip that is found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.
Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain an extra key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. You should also seek out a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able provide assistance in case of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used if someone is locked out of their car, home or any other secure location because it allows them to gain entry without requiring the services of a locksmith.
A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky side an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an imprint. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut it away, making a copy that is exactly the same in size and shape to the original.
Another method is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade, and the grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This allows the key to fit into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with punch machines. A punch machine will take the key cutting services and measure the depth of each notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.
A newer form of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to the serrated blades which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other types of test keys.
A key cutting service can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that communicates with the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. The service can't make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a myriad of models and some of the factors that could affect a person's choice include the type of key they need, whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much money they want to spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the notch on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are a few machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks at the same time. They can be expensive however they can enable locksmiths to provide a wider range of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are often less expensive than buying the tools individually, and can be an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys cutting near me.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide range of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that indicate its status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys including dimples. It is equipped with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece of metal. They have transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your vehicle and require specialized cutting machinery. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can use it in the situation of an emergency lockout.
If you decide to have your car key cut, it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require can save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of making an extra car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods for making an alternative cheap car key cutting key however, it can be risky if the key isn't properly made or the key blank isn't high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on both flat sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing either way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective at preventing theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ an instrument that can duplicate your car key by using the right blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, which means you'll be able to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car if needed and at a fraction as the cost you would pay at dealers.