How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
Cutting your car keys at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some point. This can be a major hassle because you're unable get into your vehicle or home. Most people prefer to have additional keys made instead of changing their locks. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more efficient.
Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating an original key onto a blank key, with a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide a key-cutting station where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks are equipped with an uncut key that is the same as your existing key. They can also make copies of keys with more complex designs, such as home security or car keys.
The most advanced technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key-by-photo, and it revolutionises the process of key duplication by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip that is found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
Key cutting can be the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a dedicated team of experts who have undergone rigorous training to handle different locks and locking mechanisms. You should also look for a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able to provide assistance in case of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to your home or vehicle, or another safe place if a person is locked out.
To duplicate a key, a professional could choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of the piece of clear tape. This leaves an impression. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.
A pattern grinder is another popular method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes the key easier to fit into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using punch machines, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. A device then forces a blade down onto the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with various keys. This eliminates the requirement for an expert.
A newer form of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the side of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to an asymmetrical blade that provides greater protection against bump keys and other kinds of test keys.
A key cutting service may also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs which feature an embedded chip that connects to the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. The service cannot create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the right machine to cut keys when someone needs their keys cut. There are many different types, but some factors that could influence a person's decision include the type of key they need as well as whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric device, and the much they are willing to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the contour of one key to cut another one. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done with a laser or code machine. laser key cutting near me will typically require codes that tell the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a variety of machines that are able to cut mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These machines are expensive, however, they offer a wider range of services.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and are an excellent investment for those planning to launch an operation that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has a built-in accessory tray and LED lights that indicate the status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more simply a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. key cut places near me makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they get stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can access it in the situation of a lockout.
When you choose to have your car key cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, uses a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it is risky if the key is not made correctly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut key can cause damage to the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can cut a laser groove on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder in either way and still function. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. They are also more expensive since they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will choose the right key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. auto key cutting machine have a vast selection of transponder keys so you can be sure to get the right one for your vehicle. We can also help you program it to your vehicle should you require it, for a fraction of the cost that you would pay at a dealership.