How to Get a Car Key Cut
It is costly to replace your car keys, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This could be a major hassle as you are unable to access your vehicle or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks completely. This process is faster, cheaper, and more efficient.
Key cutting is a method that involves duplicating an original key onto a blank key, using a specialised machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer an area for cutting keys where you can have a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks usually use keys that have the identical design as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more complicated keys, such as car or home security keys.
The most advanced technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the process of key duplication by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points have additional components that must be programmed properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.
Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional assistance when you require one. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should select a reputable company with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, since they will be able to assist in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and decreases wear and wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used in the event that someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other safe place because it allows the person to gain entry without the need for locksmith.
A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of the piece of clear tape. This creates an impression. Key cutters can make use of this imprint to cut it away, making a copy that is identical in size and shape to the original.
Another method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed at the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The device forces a blade on the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. These machines are either manual or electric and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is used in a few locations. Instead of grinding the keys to create the proper dimensions the laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that resemble a serrated blade, which provides more protection against bump keys and other types of test keys.
A key cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or lock. The service is not able to create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when a person needs their keys cut. There are a variety of types, but some factors that affect a person's choice include the type of key they need, whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much money they want to spend. The machine they choose will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the contour of a key to create the new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine however, it could be accomplished using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the notch on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are also cost to get a key cut of machines that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They can help locksmiths save time by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. These are costly, however, they offer a wider range of services.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically less expensive than buying individual tools separately and can be an excellent investment for those planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad variety of keys and offers step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting them. The machine also has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate the status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It can also be fitted with optional clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys as well being Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your car, and they require specialized cutting machinery. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key in case you can use it in the case of a lockout.
It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, key cutting is creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, involves using a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods for making an alternative car key, but it can be risky when the key isn't correctly constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. A poorly cut key could cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. They are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make and model, and then utilize a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a variety of transponder key options, so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if you require it, and for a fraction of the cost much as you would pay at a dealer.