How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. There aren't all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, causing you to be unable to gain access to your car or home. Most people prefer to have extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.
Key cutting is a method that involves duplicating an original key onto an uncut key, using a specialised machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in both shape and function which makes it impossible for anyone else to access your property using an imitation.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide an area for cutting keys where you can get a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks usually use a key blank that has the same design as your existing key, however, they also can make copies of more complicated keys such as car or home security keys.
The latest technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is called key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components which must be programmed properly. These additional components, like a transponder chip in vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into and require special equipment to duplicate correctly.
When you need an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy method to obtain one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of experts who have received a rigorous education to deal with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find locksmiths that offer emergency services as they'll be able to provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key 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 wear and tear. A spare key can also be used when someone is locked out of their car, home or other secure area as it can allow them to gain entry without the need for locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional may choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side the piece of clear tape. This creates an impression. A key cutter will use this imprint to cut away the original key, creating a copy which is the same size and shape to the original.
Another method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear from the other end. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. A key can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces a blade down onto the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is utilized in certain places. Instead of grinding keys to get the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys.
A key cutting service can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that connects to the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. The service is not able to create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of types however, some elements that influence a person's choice are the kind of key they require, whether or not they want to use an automated or electric device, and the much money they want to spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual, but it can also be done with a laser or code. These machines will typically require a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from databases.
There are a few tools that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These are costly, however, they offer a wider range of services.
mobile car keys cut is to purchase a kit that includes both the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and can be a good investment for someone who wants to start a business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting the keys. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that show its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It also comes with clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well for Cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require specialized cutting machinery. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have a spare key in case you can access it in the situation of an emergency lockout.
It is important to understand the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, key cutting is creating a brand new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require can help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making a spare car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is cheaper than other options, but it could be risky if the key isn't made properly or the blank is of poor quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specifically designed. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in stopping theft than normal keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will choose the right key blank for your year, model, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys so you can be sure that you get the correct one for your car. We can help you program the key to your car if required, and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at the dealer.