How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are a great option to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But cutting car key or locksmith shops 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 get into your car or home. A majority of people prefer having extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more convenient.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of a key using a special 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 a key-cutting station where you can have a copy made in minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks use a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complex designs, like car keys or home security keys.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. It's called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the process of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to function properly. These other components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes, communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into and require special equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional help when you need one. There are many locksmiths that are not equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a team of highly skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training to deal with various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to locate a locksmith that offers emergency services, since they can provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which can prevent damage to original keys and reduce overall wear and wear and. In addition, spare keys can be used in the event that someone is locked out of their car, home or any other secure location as it can allow them to gain access without the need for locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional can choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an impression. Key cutters can make use of this imprint to cut away creating a copy that is identical in size and shape to the original.
Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear from the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine forces an edge onto the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. These machines are electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This eliminates the need for a specialist.
Laser cutting is a newer technique for cutting keys, which is employed in a few places. Instead of grinding keys down to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys.
Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or locks. However it isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming that is typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. A few factors that could affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, if they want an electric or automated machine, and the amount they want spend. The tool they select will also influence the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of one key to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual however, it could also be done using a laser or code. These machines will typically need a code that tells 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 few tools that cut both cylinder and mortice locks. These are sometimes 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 can be expensive however they also allow you to offer more services to customers.
Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine and tools required to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and could be a good investment for anyone who wishes to start a business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access a variety of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. car key cutting says the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys, including dimples. It is equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key so that you can use it in the event of a lockout.
If you decide to have your car key cut, it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the type of service you require will save you time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making a spare car key and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods for making an alternative car key however, it can be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. A poorly cut key could harm the lock and prevent your key from working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specialized. These machines can create a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These are often referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key by using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a variety of transponder keys, so you can be sure that you get the correct one for your car. We can even assist you to programme it to your car in case you need to, at only a fraction of the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.