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.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. Not all hardware or locksmith shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some point. This can be a major inconvenience, because you're unable access your vehicle or go to your home. Most people prefer to have additional keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient process.
Key cutting is a process that involves replicating an original key onto an uncut key, with a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in shape and function which makes it impossible for someone else to access your property with a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have a copy made in minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks are equipped with an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They can also make copies of keys with more complicated designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
The most advanced technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing costs and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components which must be programmed to work properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, and require specific equipment.
If you require an extra key, cutting it is a simple and quick method to obtain one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. You should also look for a locksmith who offers emergency services. auto key cutting machine will be able to assist you in the event of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used in the event that someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other secure location because it allows the person to gain entry without the need for a locksmith.
A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter will utilize this imprint to cut around, making a copy that is the same size and shape to the original.
A pattern grinder is a different common method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to insert into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with a punch machine, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The device forces a blade onto the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the need for an expert.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to get the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other kinds of keys.
A key cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. However, the service isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming, which is often reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when you need your keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they want spend. The type of machine they select will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut a new one. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual however, it could also be done using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the key's notch. A code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are a few machines that cut mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These are costly, however, they offer a wider variety of services.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are often less expensive than purchasing individual tools, and can be an excellent investment for someone planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen is removable and allows users to access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate its current status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys that include dimples. It can also be fitted with optional clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys, as well being cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle and require cutting machines that are specialized. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep an extra key in case you can use it in the situation of an emergency lockout.
If you decide to have your car key cut, it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of creating a spare car key, and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods, but it can be risky when the key isn't made correctly or the blank is of poor quality. Keys that are cut improperly can damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can make an optical groove on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. They are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys since they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car key using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, which means you'll be able 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 of price as you would at dealers.