How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some moment, and when that occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, making it impossible to gain access to your home or car. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks completely. This is faster and less expensive, as well as more efficient.
Key cutting is a technique that involves replicating the original key onto the blank key using a specialised machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function.
A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can get a copy made by trained workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks typically use keys that have the identical design as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more elaborate keys, such as car or home security keys.
Contrary 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 key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is referred to as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components which must be programmed properly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, which requires specific equipment.
When you need a spare, key cutting is a quick and easy way to get one. However you should always seek advice from an expert. There are many locksmiths that are not to be the same, so you must look for a reputable company with a dedicated team of skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training to handle different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they can provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the making of spare keys, which can protect keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and tear. A spare key can also be used when someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or any other secure location as it can allow them to gain entry without the assistance of locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional may choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the end of the key until it turns black, and then pressing it against the sticky side a piece clear tape. This leaves an imprint. Key cutters can make use of this imprint to cut it away, making a copy that is identical in dimensions and shape to the original.
Another option is to use a pattern grinder, that takes the original key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines can either be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with various keys. This means that there is no requirement for an expert.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being used in some places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to get the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.
car keys cutting and programming cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or lock. The service is not able to make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it's crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many different types and some of the factors that could affect a person's choice include the kind of key they require, whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much they are willing to spend. The tool they select will also affect 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 a new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine but it can be accomplished using a code or laser machine. These machines will typically need a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a few tools that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks at the same time. These tools can be costly, but they can also make it possible to offer more services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are usually cheaper than buying the tools individually and can be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access a variety of keys, and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with clamps for handling flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They have transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require cutting machines that are specialized. They are more costly to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can access it in the event of an emergency lockout.
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 like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require can save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses an instrument for cutting keys to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than others, but could be risky if the key isn't made correctly or the key is not of good quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can make a laser groove on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way, and still function. These are often referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. These keys are also more expensive since they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use an instrument that can duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a variety of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find 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 a dealer.