How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great option to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some time. This can be a major inconvenience, because you're unable get into your vehicle or home. A majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than changing their locks. This is faster and cheaper as well as more efficient.
Key cutting is a method that involves duplicating an original key on a blank key, with a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in design and function and makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your home using an unauthentic.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer an area for cutting keys where you can get a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks usually use keys with the same style as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more elaborate keys such as keys for your car or home security.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank piece of. It's called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the method 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 correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip that is found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.
If you require an extra key, cutting it is a simple and quick method of getting one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services, as they will be able to assist in the event of an accidental 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 tear. In addition, spare keys can be used if one is locked out of their home, car or any other safe place because it allows them to gain entry without the need for locksmith.
To duplicate a key, a professional could either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. Key cutters can utilize this imprint to cut it away creating a copy that is the same shape and size to the original.
Another method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches are gone at the other end. This allows the key to fit into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The machine forces a blade on the key and then cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.
A newer form of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down the keys to create the proper dimensions, a laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that look like a serrated blade which offers more protection against bump keys and other types of test keys.
Key cutting services are also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. However the service cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision are the size and style of the key, if they want an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they want spend. The type of machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the notch on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are getting a key cut near me that cut mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They can reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. They can be expensive however they can enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to get into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide variety of keys and offers step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting them. It also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys including dimples. It is equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more simply a piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they get lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key so that you can utilize it in the event of an emergency lockout.
It is important to understand the difference between duplication and cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear like they are similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, involves using a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating an alternative car key however it could be risky if the key isn't properly constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specially designed. These machines can cut an optical groove on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective at protecting against theft than regular keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then utilize a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car, if required and at a fraction as much as you would pay at dealers.