How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly in the event that you lose only one. A backup key is the best protection against expensive replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. However, not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This can be a huge inconvenience since you’re unable to get into your vehicle or go to your home. Most people prefer to have additional keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient procedure.
Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating an original key onto the blank key by using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide a key-cutting station where you can get a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. The kiosks typically make use of keys that have the same style as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more elaborate keys like keys for home or car security.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the key’s unique markings onto a blank key. This is known as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services work by drastically reducing the amount of time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, and require specific equipment.
If you require a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick method to obtain one. However, you should always consult an expert. Don’t settle for any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It’s also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, as they can help in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce overall wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to your home or vehicle, or another safe place if a person has locked themselves outside.
A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. Key cutters can utilize this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is exactly the same in dimensions and shape to the original.
A pattern grinder is another common method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to be fitted into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines. A punch machine takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The device forces a blade onto the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric 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 used in certain areas. Instead of grinding keys to get the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that look like a serrated blade, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other types of keys for tryouts.
Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or lock. However, the service isn’t capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it is important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person’s decision are the type and size of the key, whether they want an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they want spend. The machine they select can also affect the quality and precision of their work.
The majority of key cut service cutting machines work by tracing the shape of one key to cut another one. This can be done manually or with a manual machine. It could also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines will typically require a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a few tools that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can cut locksmiths’ time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These are costly, however they can provide a wider range of services.
A kit that includes the machine along with the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are often cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and can be an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch an operation that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and allows users to access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its status. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys, including dimples. It is able to be fitted with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are lost or taken. It’s always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can use it in the case of a lockout.
It’s crucial to know the difference between duplication and key cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing which service you need can help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making a spare car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of creating a replacement car key however it could be risky in the event that the key isn’t well created or the key blank isn’t made of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut key can cause damage to the lock and G28Carkeys.Co.Uk prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specifically designed. These machines can make a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive because they’re more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will choose the right key blank for your year, model, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, so you’re sure to get the right one for your car. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if required and at a fraction as price as you would at dealers.