How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. The possession of duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at a car repair shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some time. This could be a major inconvenience, since you're unable to get into your vehicle or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This process is quicker and cheaper as well as more efficient.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in both design and function, making it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your home using a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. The kiosks typically make use of a key blank that has the identical design as your current key, however, they also can make copies of more elaborate keys such as keys for your car or home security.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings on a blank key. This is called key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services function by significantly reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points have additional components that must be programmed correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into and require special equipment to duplicate correctly.
If you require a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick way to get one. However, you should always consult an expert. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should look for a reputable company with a team of highly skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with 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 can be used to make spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a home or car, or any other safe location if someone has locked themselves outside.
To duplicate a key, a professional may choose between the tracing 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 the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut away, making a copy that is exactly the same in size and shape to the original.
Another common 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 gone on the other side. This makes it easier to insert into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device forces an edge onto the key and then cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This eliminates the need for an expert.
A newer type of key cutting technique is being used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down keys to get the right dimensions, a laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to the serrated blades, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of keys for tryouts.
Key cutting services can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs which feature an embedded chip that connects to the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. However, the service isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming usually reserved for dealerships or automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right machine to cut keys when someone needs their keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision are the size and style of the key, if they want an electric or automated machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create the new key. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual but it can also be done with a code or laser machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the key's notch. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a few tools that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks at the same time. These machines are expensive, however they can provide a wider range of services.
Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. car key programming and cutting are usually cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and could be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access various 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 to show the status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys that include dimple keys. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys as well being cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key in case you can access it in the situation of an emergency lockout.
If you're considering having your car key cut, it's crucial to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of making spare keys for cars, involves using the key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods, but it can be risky when the key is not made correctly or the key is not of good quality. Keys that are cut improperly can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can cut an optical groove on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will select the correct key blank for your year, model and model, and then use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys, so you're sure to get the right one for your car. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if you require it and for a fraction of the cost the cost you would pay at dealers.