How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Having duplicate keys is the best protection against expensive replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at an automotive store like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. Not all hardware or locksmith establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This can be a huge inconvenience because you're unable access your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of keys using a specific machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can have a copy created by skilled workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks are equipped with a blank key that is exactly like your existing key. auto key cutting machine can also make copies of keys with more complex designs, like home security or car keys.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings onto a blank piece of. This is called key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services operate by drastically 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 to work properly. These additional components such as the transponder chip found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.
Key cutting is a great way to get an extra key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional assistance when you require one. Not all locksmiths are created to be the same, so you must choose a reputable firm with a committed team of experts who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locking mechanisms and locks. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services as they will be able to provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.
auto key cutting machine Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that one is locked out of their home, car or any other secure location as it can allow the person to gain entry without the assistance of locksmith.
Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate keys. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side of a piece clear tape. This creates an impression. A key cutter can then use this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.
Another common method is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the original key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches are gone from the other end. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. A key can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines can either be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This means that there is no need for an expert.
A newer type of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down keys to make the proper dimensions the laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys look like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.
Key cutting services can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However the service cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming usually reserved for dealerships or automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many different types and some of the factors that could influence a person's choice are the type of key they need, whether or not they prefer to use an automatic or electric machine and how much they are willing to spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut a new one. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual however, it could be accomplished using a code or laser machine. These machines will typically need codes that tell the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a few tools which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These machines are expensive, however they can provide a wider range of services.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and are a great investment for someone who wants to get into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad variety of keys and offers step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting the keys. The machine also has a built-in accessory tray and LED lights that indicate the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys including dimples. It is equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
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 they require cutting machines that are specialized. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can use it in the case of an emergency lockout.
If you decide to have your car key cut it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you require can save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making a spare car key, and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making an alternative car key however, it can be risky when the key isn't correctly made or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can create an optical groove on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in protecting against theft than regular keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and harder to find at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key by using the appropriate blank for your car's year and make. We have a variety of transponder keys, so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if required and at a fraction of price as you would at dealers.