How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.
Cutting your car keys at a car repair shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some time. This could be a huge inconvenience because you're unable access your car or home. The majority of people prefer to have additional keys made instead of changing their locks. This process is faster, cheaper, and more efficient.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key matches the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can have a copy made by trained employees within a matter of minutes. These kiosks typically use a key blank that has the identical design as your current key, however, they also can make copies of more intricate keys, such as keys for home or car security.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which relies on mechanical tools the latest technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank piece of. This is referred to as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services work by drastically reducing the amount of time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points have additional components which must be programmed to work properly. These additional components like the transponder chip found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.
When you need a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method to obtain one. However, you should always consult an expert. get more info are created equally, so choose a reputable firm with a dedicated team of highly skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to handle different locks and locking mechanisms. You should also look for locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able provide assistance in case of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or any other secure location since it will allow them to gain access without the need for a locksmith.
A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by key cutters to create a copy of the original exactly the same size and shape.
A pattern grinder is another popular method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to fit into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine applies a blade on the key and then cuts each notch to the desired depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the requirement for a specialist to be present.
Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is used in certain areas. Instead of grinding the keys to the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other types of keys.
A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs that have an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service is not able to create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is normally reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of types, but some factors that could influence a person's decision include the type of key they require, whether or not they prefer to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they want to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of a key in order to create a new key. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual but it can be accomplished using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to put the key's notch. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a few tools that cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These tools can be costly however they can make it possible to offer more services to customers.
Another option is to purchase a kit that includes both the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and could be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be easy to use. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. Ilco says the machine has an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that indicate its state. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys, including dimples. It also comes with clamps that can be used to handle flat household and Tibbe keys, as as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that require programming to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they get lost or stolen. That's why it's always wise to invest in a spare key, so you have something to turn to in the event that you're stuck.
If you're considering having your car key cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing what cutting car key need will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of creating a spare car key, and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of creating keys for replacement, but it can be risky when the key isn't correctly created or the key blank isn't of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut key can damage the lock and stop your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specifically designed. These machines can cut laser grooves on both flat sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective in protecting against theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key blank for your year, model and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a variety of transponder key options which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even help you connect it to your car should you require it, for a fraction of the cost that you would pay at an auto dealer.