How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. A backup key is the best defense against costly replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one moment, and when that occurs, it could be an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to gain access to your home or car. Most people prefer to have extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is a quicker and less expensive process.
Key cutting is a technique that involves duplicating an original key onto the blank key using a specialised machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in both shape 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 offer 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 trained employee. These kiosks use a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They can also make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, such as keys for car keys or home security.
The most recent technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services function by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost involved.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. cost to get a key cut , such as a transponder chip in vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to be part of, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting is the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. You should also look for locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able to assist you in the event of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used if one is locked out of their car, home or any other secure location as it can allow them to gain access without the assistance of a locksmith.
A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes 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 it away the original key, creating a copy which is exactly the same in size and shape to the original.
Another option is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This allows the key to be fitted into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device then pushes a blade down onto the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. These machines can either be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This eliminates the need for a specialist.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys down to the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that resemble an asymmetrical blade which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other types of test keys.
Key cutting services can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs which feature an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service cannot create replacements 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 right key-cutting machine when a person needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. A few factors that could affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, whether they want an electric or automated machine, and how much they'd like to spend. The machine they choose will also influence the quality and precision of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done manually or with a manual machine but it can be accomplished using a laser or code. These machines typically require a code that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a few tools that cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. They can be expensive, but they can also make it possible to offer more services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools required to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than buying individual tools separately and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to get into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be simple to use. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad range of keys and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting the keys. The machine also has a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to show the its status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys including dimples. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys as well for cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more simply a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your car, and they require specialized cutting machinery. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you have something to turn to in case you find yourself in a bind.
If you're considering having your car key cut, it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear identical, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing which one you require can 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 the key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating an alternative car key however, it can be risky if the key isn't properly made or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. A poorly cut key could cause damage to the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can cut a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit inside the lock-cylinder either way. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in stopping theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and harder to find at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car key by using the correct blank for your vehicle's year and make. We have a variety of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find the right one 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 the cost you would pay at the dealer.