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 defense against costly replacements.
cut and program car key cutting of your car's key at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. But not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some point, and when this occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, making it impossible to access your home or car. The majority of people prefer to have extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient process.
Key cutting is a method that involves replicating an original key on the blank key with a specially-designed machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in shape and function which makes it impossible for someone else to unlock your property with a fake.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can get a copy created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks typically use keys with the same design as your existing key, however, they can also make copies of more elaborate keys like keys for home or car security.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, and require specific equipment.
Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek professional assistance when you require it. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a team of professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also essential to find locksmiths that offer emergency services, as they can assist in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This can 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 safe place since it will allow them to gain access without the assistance of a locksmith.
To create a duplicate key, a professional may either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky side of an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an imprint. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is the same dimensions and shape to the original.
Another method is to use a pattern grinder, that takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This makes the key easier to insert into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine forces an edge onto the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. These machines are either manual or electric and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.
A newer form of key cutting technique is being used in some places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys down to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps and other kinds of keys.
A key cutting service can also create 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 crucial to select the correct key-cutting machine for you need your keys cut. There are a variety of types, but some factors that influence a person's decision include the type of key they require and whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much money they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.
The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the shape of one key to cut another one. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It could also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines typically require codes that tell the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from a database.
There are a few tools that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They can save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. They can be expensive however they also make it possible to offer more services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is an alternative option. Click Webpage are usually less expensive than purchasing the tools individually and can be an excellent investment for those who wants to start a business cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. It also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys, including dimples. It is able to be fitted with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece of metal. They have transponder chips that 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 a good idea to have a spare key in case you can access it in the case of an emergency lockout.
When you choose to have your car key cut it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear identical, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making a spare car key, and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours of the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods for making a replacement car key, but it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well constructed or the key blank isn't of high-quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could harm the lock's cylinder, and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys 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 assist you in programming the key to your car if required, and at a fraction as price as you would at dealers.