How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective way to avoid expensive replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at a car repair shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some point. This can be a major hassle since you're unable to access your vehicle 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 duplicating the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer a key-cutting station where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks typically use a key blank that has the same style as your current key, however, they also can make copies of more complicated keys, such as keys for your car or home security.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. This is known as key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services function by significantly reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys, such as keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. These additional components, such as a transponder chip in vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require special equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting is a great way to get an extra key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional assistance when you require one. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a dedicated team of experts who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to locate a locksmith that offers emergency services, as they will be able to assist in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and wear and. Additionally, a spare can be used if someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other secure location as it can allow them to gain entry without the assistance of locksmith.
A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black, and then pressing it against the sticky surface of the piece of clear tape. This leaves an imprint. This impression can be used by key cutters to create a copy of the original exactly the same size and shape.
Another common method is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the original key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear from the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The device forces an edge onto the key and cuts each notch at the required depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the need for an expert.
Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is used in specific areas. Instead of grinding keys down to the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that look like an asymmetrical blade that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of keys for tryouts.
Key cutting services are also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or lock. However it cannot create replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming often reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the correct key-cutting machine for a person needs their keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. Some factors that may affect a person's choice include the type and size of the key, whether they want an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they want spend. The tool they select will also influence the quality of their work and how accurate it is.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of one key to cut another one. This can be done manually or using a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the notch on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a variety of machines available that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. They can be expensive however they also allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically cheaper than buying the tools individually and can be a good option for those looking to start a business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a large range of keys and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting the keys. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate its status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys including dimples. It can also be fitted with clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your car, and they require cutting machines that are specialized. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key so that you can access it in the case of an emergency lockout.
It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. While they might appear identical, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which auto key cutting require will save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, requires an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours on a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods for making keys for replacement however, it can be risky if the key isn't properly made or the key blank isn't of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated 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 use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys, so you can be sure to get the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car, if required and at a fraction as the cost you would pay at a dealer.