How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great option to avoid costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. Not all hardware or locksmith establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this occurs, it could be an absolute hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to get into your home or car. Most people prefer to have additional keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is the process of creating a key using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original one in terms of form and function and makes it impossible for anyone else to access your home using an imitation.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide an area for cutting keys where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks make use of keys that are blank and identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complex designs, like car keys or home security keys.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely duplicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. This is referred to as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by drastically reducing the amount of time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, like those used to control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring specialised equipment.
When you need a spare key, cutting is a quick and easy method to obtain one. However, you should always consult a professional. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able to help you out in the event of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which can prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another secure location if someone has locked themselves outside.
To make a duplicate key, a professional can choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an imprint. This impression can be used by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original exactly the same size and shape.
Another option 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 on the other side. This allows the key to be fitted into locks. A key can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. These machines are electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.
A newer type of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the side 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 test keys.
A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service is not able to make replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many different types, but some factors that influence a person's decision include the type of key they need and whether or not they want to use an automated or electric machine and how much they are willing to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create an entirely new key. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine but it can also be done using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the notch on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a few machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These machines are expensive, however, they offer a wider variety of services.
Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than buying individual tools separately and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to venture into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. click through the next document that is removable lets users access many keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys including dimples. It can be equipped with clamps that can be used to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which must be programmed to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to invest in an extra key, so you have something to turn to if you're in a bind.
It's crucial to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money 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. This method is less expensive than other options, but it can be risky when the key is not made correctly or the key is not of good quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could damage the lock and stop the key from working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specially designed. These machines can cut a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective at protecting against theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ an instrument that can duplicate your car keys using the right blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options, so you're sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car should you require it, for less than the price that you would spend at an auto dealer.