How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly in the case of only one you have. A backup key is the best protection against costly replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. However, not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some time. This can be a major hassle because you're unable get into your vehicle or go to your home. The majority of people prefer to have extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is a quicker and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is a method that involves copying an original key onto the blank key by using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can get a copy made by trained employees in a matter of minutes. These kiosks use a blank key that is exactly like your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complex designs, such as car keys or home security keys.
The latest 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 referred to as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services operate by significantly reducing the time and cost involved.
Modern electronic keys, such as those used to control the security of car locks or access points, come with additional components that must be programmed to function properly. These additional components, like a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require special equipment to duplicate correctly.
Key cutting is a great way to get an extra key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional help when you need one. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a staff of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths who provide emergency services. They can assist you in the event of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys, which can protect original keys and reduce overall wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a house, car, or other safe location if someone has locked themselves outside.
car key cutting cost can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. The tracing method involves heating the end of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This leaves an impression. This impression can be used by key cutters to create a copy of the original that is identical to its size and shape.
A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with punch machines. A punch machine takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The machine applies a blade on the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines can be manual or electric, and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.
A newer form of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to a serrated blade, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other types of keys for tryouts.
A key cutting service may create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that connects to the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However, the service cannot create replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the correct key-cutting machine for you need your keys cut. There are many different types however, some elements that influence a person's decision include the kind of key they require, whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric machine and how much money they'd like to spend. The machine they select will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of a key in order to create an entirely new key. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual but it can also be done using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the key's notch. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are several machines which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They can save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These are costly, however they can provide a wider variety of services.
Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and can be an excellent investment for someone planning to launch an operation that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a large variety of keys and offers steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray that is integrated as well as LED lights that indicate its current status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys including dimples. It is also equipped with clamps for handling keys for household use 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 a transponder chip that is programmed to your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. car key cutting price is why it's always a good idea to have an extra key so that you'll have something to turn to in case you're in a pinch.
It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require can save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making a spare car key and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it can be risky when the key is not made properly or the key is not of good quality. Keys that are cut improperly can damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in protecting against theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive because they're more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a broad selection of transponder key options so you are sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if required, and at a fraction of much as you would pay at dealers.