How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. Having duplicate keys is the best defense against expensive replacements.
The cutting of your car's key at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, making it impossible to gain access to your home or car. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This process is faster, cheaper, and more convenient.
Key cutting is a method that involves replicating an original key onto an uncut key, using a specialised machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is in line with the original one in terms of shape and function which makes it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your home using an unauthentic.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting station where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks usually use keys that have the same style as your current key, but they can also cut copies of more complicated keys like keys for home or car security.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. This is known as key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by drastically reducing the amount of time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points have additional components that must be programmed correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to be part of, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate correctly.
Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services, as they'll be able to assist in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys which can protect original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a home, car, or other safe place if a person has locked themselves out.
To make a duplicate key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the tip of the key until it is black and pressing it against the sticky surface of an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an imprint. A key cutter will make use of this imprint to cut it away the original key, creating a copy which is identical in shape and size to the original.
Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed at the other end. This makes the key easier to fit into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The device forces a blade onto the key and then cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This reduces the need for a specialist.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down the keys to create the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.
A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. The service can't create 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's crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are motorcycle key cutting of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision include the size and style of the key, whether they prefer an automatic or electric machine, and how much they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select will also influence the quality and precision of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines will typically need an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from a database.
There are also a number of machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These are costly, however they can provide a wider variety of services.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to get into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access a variety of keys, and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate its state. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. 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 to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that require programming to work with your car, and they require cutting machines that are specialized. They are more expensive to replace in the event they get lost or stolen. That's why it's always wise to invest in a spare key, so you have something to go to in the event that you find yourself stuck.
When you choose to have your car keys cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying a key. Knowing which service you require can save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making a spare car key, and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is cheaper than others, but can be risky when the key isn't created properly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause the key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder in either way while still functioning. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective in preventing theft than normal 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 choose the right key blank for your year, model and model, and then use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if you require it and at a fraction as price as you would at a dealer.