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 way to avoid costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one point, and when this happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to get into your car or home. A majority of people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient process.
Key cutting is a method that involves duplicating the original key onto a blank key, using a specialised machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original in both form and function which makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property using a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks typically use a key blank that has the same style as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more intricate keys like keys for home or car security.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and it revolutionises the method of key duplication by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points have additional components that must be programmed to work correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip that is found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip that is found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, which requires special equipment.
If you require a spare, key cutting is a fast and simple method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. Not all locksmiths are equally, so choose a reputable firm with a committed team of highly skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with different locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, since they can assist in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys, which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to your home or vehicle, or another secure location if someone has locked themselves outside.
A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by key cutters to create a replica of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.
A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using punch machines, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The device then pushes a blade to the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys that is utilized in certain places. Instead of grinding the keys to the proper dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to an asymmetrical blade, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of keys for tryouts.
A key cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or locks. The service is not able to make replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the correct key-cutting machine for a person needs their keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. The factors that can affect a person's choice include the size and type of the key, whether they want an electric or automated machine, and how much they want spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of one key to cut a new one. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual but it can also be done with the use of a laser machine or code. These machines will typically require a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are several machines that cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. They are expensive but can offer a greater range of services.
Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than buying 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 that has been designed to be user-friendly. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable lets users access a wide range of keys and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. Ilco states that the machine has an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its current status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys that include dimples. It can be equipped with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to purchase a spare key, so you have something to go to in the event that you're stuck.
It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they might appear similar, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require can help you save money and time in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, requires the key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. cutting car keys near me is cheaper than other methods of creating a replacement car key however, it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well made or the key blank isn't of high-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 advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can make a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder either way. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use an instrument that can duplicate your car keys using the appropriate blank for your car's year and make. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if needed and for a fraction of the cost the cost you would pay at a dealer.