How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are a great option to avoid costly replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This could be a major inconvenience, as you are unable to get into your car or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks entirely. This is faster, cheaper, and more efficient.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is identical to the original one in terms of shape and function, making it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your home using a fake.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can have a copy created by skilled workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks use keys that are blank and the same as your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complex designs, like home security or car keys.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. This is known as key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points have additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, which requires specific equipment.
When you need an extra key, cutting it is a simple and quick method of getting one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business 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 a locksmith that offers emergency services, since they'll be able to help in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
keys cut near me now Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys, which can protect keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and tear. A spare key can also be used if someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other secure location as it can allow them to gain access without the assistance of locksmith.
To create a duplicate key, a professional may either use 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 of a piece clear tape. This leaves an impression. Key cutters can utilize this imprint to cut around, making a copy that is exactly the same in dimensions and shape to the original.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder that takes the original key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed on the other side. This allows the key to insert into locks. In addition, a key can be cut with punch machines, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This means that there is no requirement for an expert.
A newer type of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. The keys look like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys.
A key cutting service may also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs that have an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service cannot make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many different types and some of the factors that can influence a person's choice are the kind of key they require, whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric device, and the much they are willing to spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of a key to create an entirely new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine however, it could also be done using a laser or code. These machines typically require codes that tell the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are also a number of machines available that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters and can save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These machines are expensive, however they can provide a wider variety of services.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing the tools individually and can be a good option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and allows users to access a variety of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. It also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to show the status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It can also be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle the flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well being cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require cutting machines that are specialized. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can access it in the case of an emergency lockout.
When you choose to have your car key cut it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating 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 run.
Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of making spare keys for cars, requires an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is cheaper than others, but is risky if the key isn't created properly or the blank is of poor quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can cut laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way while still functioning. These are commonly called sidewinder keys and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the right blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a variety of transponder keys so you'll be able to get the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if needed, and at a fraction as price as you would at a dealer.