How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly if it is the only one you have. A backup key is the best protection against costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. There aren't all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some point. This can be a major hassle as you are unable to access your car or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is faster and cheaper as well as more efficient.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating keys using a specific machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.
A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can get a copy made by trained employees in just a few minutes. These kiosks usually use keys that have the identical design as your current key, but they also can make copies of more elaborate keys, such as keys for home or car security.
The most recent technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components which must be programmed to work correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip that is found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.
Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are created to be the same, so you must look for a reputable company with a dedicated team of experts who have undergone rigorous training to handle different locking mechanisms and locks. You should also seek out locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able assist you in the event of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used when someone is locked out of their car, home or any other secure location because it allows the person to gain entry without the assistance of a locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the tip of the key until it is black and pressing it against the sticky surface of an uncut piece of tape. This creates an impression. Key cutters can use this imprint to cut away creating a copy that is the same shape and size to the original.
A pattern grinder is another popular method. It grinds the original key until it has a flat surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to be fitted into locks. Keys can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device 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.
Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys that is utilized in specific areas. Instead of grinding the keys to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types of keys.
Key cutting services are also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. cheapest key cutting near me have an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or locks. However the service cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming that is usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many different types however, some elements that could influence a person's decision include the kind of key they require, whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much money they'd like to spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine however, it could also be done with a code or laser machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to put the notch on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are also a number of machines that are able to cut mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These tools can be costly, but they can also make it possible to offer a wider range of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and tools required to operate it. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and are a great option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen allows users to access various keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights that indicate the status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys, including dimples. It is equipped with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. They are more costly to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can utilize it in the case of a lockout.
If you're considering having your car key cut, it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require will help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making a spare car key, and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is less expensive than others, but is risky if the key is not made properly or the key is not of good quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop the key from working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specifically designed. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in preventing theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will select the correct key blank for your year, make, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, which means you're sure to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if you require it, and at a fraction of price as you would at the dealer.