How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially in the event that you lose only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. Not all hardware or locksmith stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses keys at some time, and when this happens, it can be an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to access your car or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This process is quicker and less expensive, as well as more efficient.
Key cutting is a process that involves replicating the original key onto an uncut key, with a specially-designed machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original in design and function and makes it impossible for anyone else to unlock your property using an imitation.
A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can get a copy made by trained workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks use keys that are blank and identical to your current key. They also can make copies of keys with more complicated designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is known as key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services function by significantly reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, which requires specific equipment.
If you require an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy way to get one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a staff of professionals who have received a rigorous education to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They can provide assistance in case of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the making of spare keys, which can protect the original keys and decrease the overall wear and wear and. A spare key can also be used to gain access to your home, car, or other safe location if someone has locked themselves outside.
To create a duplicate key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This creates an impression. Key cutters can use this imprint to cut it away, making a copy that is identical in dimensions and shape to the original.
Another common method is to use a pattern grinder, that takes the original key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches are gone from the other end. This allows you to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then forces a blade down onto the key cutting each notch until the required depth. These machines can either be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys. This reduces the need for a specialist.
Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is utilized in certain locations. Instead of grinding down the keys to create the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that resemble a serrated blade which offers more protection against bump keys and other kinds of test keys.
A key cutting service can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However the service cannot create replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming, which is often reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are a variety of types and some of the factors that can affect a person's choice include the type of key they need as well as whether or not they want to use an automated or electric device, and the much money they want to spend. The machine they choose can also impact the quality of their work and how precise it is.
Most key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create the new key. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It could also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are several machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. They are expensive however, they offer a wider variety of services.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are often less expensive than buying individual tools and are an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch a business cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen allows users to access many keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys, including dimples. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as being cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are lost or taken. That's why it's always wise to invest in an extra key so that you have something to go to in case you find yourself in a bind.
It's crucial to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they might appear identical, duplication is the act of copying a key. Knowing which one you require will help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of creating an extra car key and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of making an alternative car key, but it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well made or the key blank isn't of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut key can cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can make a laser groove on both flat sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing in any way, and still function. These are often referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key by using the right blank for your vehicle's year and make. he said have a vast selection of transponder keys so you're sure to get the right one for your car. We can help you program the key to your car, if you require it and at a fraction as price as you would at a dealer.
