How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. A backup key is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This can be a major inconvenience, since you’re unable to access your vehicle or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks completely. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient process.
Key cutting is the process of creating keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is identical to the original one in terms of form and function and makes it impossible for anyone else to unlock your property using a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get copies made in just a few minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks usually use keys with the identical design as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more intricate keys like keys for home or car security.
The most recent technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip in car keys and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.
Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional help when you need one. There are many locksmiths that are not to be the same, so you must choose a reputable firm with a committed team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to handle various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they’ll be able to provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys which can prevent damage to the original keys and decrease overall wear and wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used if someone is locked out of their car, home or other secure area as it can allow them to gain entry without requiring the services of a locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky side a piece clear tape. This creates an imprint. A key cutter can then use this imprint to cut around the original key, creating a copy which is the same size and shape to the original.
A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine forces a blade on the key and then cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either manual or electric and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys that is utilized in specific locations. Instead of grinding down the keys to create the proper dimensions the laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys look like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other kinds of keys.
Key cutting services are also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or lock. However it cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it’s essential to select the correct mobile key cutting near me cutting machine. There are many different types however, some elements that can influence a person’s choice are the type of key they need, whether or not they wish to use an automated or electric machine and how much money they’d like to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the profile of one key to cut another one. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It could also be done using the laser car key cutting service near me or a code machine. These machines typically require a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from a database.
There are a variety of machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. They can be expensive however they can enable locksmiths to provide a wider range of services to customers.
Another option is to purchase a kit that includes both the cutting machine and tools required to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing individual tools, and can be an excellent investment for those who wants to start an operation that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access a variety of keys, and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle flat household and Tibbe keys, as well for Cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more just a piece made of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your vehicle, and they require specialized cutting machinery. They are more costly to replace in the event they are lost or taken. That’s why it’s always wise to invest in a spare key, so you have something to go to if you find yourself in a bind.
It’s important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting key involves making a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires the key-cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other options, but it can be risky when the key isn’t created correctly or the blank is of poor quality. Keys that are cut improperly can cause damage to the lock’s cylinder and cause the key to stop functioning.
laser key cutting (Securityholes noted) is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove on both sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing either way while still functioning. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in preventing theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive because they’re more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.
AutoZone’s associates will employ an instrument that can duplicate your car key using the correct blank for your vehicle’s year and make. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options, so you’re sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if needed and at a fraction as much as you would pay at the dealer.