How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some moment, and when that happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to gain access to your car or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient procedure.
get keys cut is a technique that involves replicating the original key onto the blank key using a specialised machine. This is done to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can have a copy made by trained workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks use keys that are blank and exactly like your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as car keys or home security keys.
The most advanced technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and it revolutionises 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 that need to be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components like the transponder chip found in car keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.
If you require an extra key, cutting it is a simple and quick method to obtain one. However, you should always consult an expert. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should seek out a reputable business with a dedicated team of highly skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training in dealing with various locking mechanisms and locks. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, as they will be able to assist in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to the original keys and decrease overall wear and wear and. Additionally, a spare can be used if someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other safe place as it can allow them to gain entry without requiring the services of locksmith.
A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original exactly the same size and shape.
Another common method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches are gone on the other side. This allows you to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine applies an edge onto the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with various keys. This means that there is no need for a specialist.
A newer form of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to get the correct dimensions, a laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that look like the serrated blades, which provides more protection against bump keys and other types of test keys.
A key cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. The service cannot create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is normally reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
mobile car key cutting Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of types however, some elements that can influence a person's choice are the type of key they need and whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much money they want to spend. The machine they choose will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the contour of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done with a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the key's notch. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are also a range of machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks simultaneously. They are expensive however, they offer 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 usually cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and could be a good option for those looking to start a business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be easy to use. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad range of keys and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. It also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to indicate its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your vehicle and require cutting machines that are specialized. They are more expensive to replace in the event they get lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to have an extra key so that you have something to turn to in the event that you're in a bind.
If you're considering having your car key cut it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear similar, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require can save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, requires an instrument for cutting keys to trace original contours onto a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of creating keys for replacement, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly made or the key blank isn't of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specifically designed. These machines can cut laser grooves on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way while still functioning. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will choose the right key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then use a special cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys so you'll be able to get the right one for your car. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if you require it, and for a fraction of the cost the cost you would pay at dealers.