How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are a great method to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. Not all hardware or locksmith establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one moment, and when that occurs, it could be an extremely stressful day, causing you to be unable to gain access to your home or car. A majority of people prefer having extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive process.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of a key using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the key matches the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer an area for cutting keys where you can get copies made in just a few minutes by a trained employee. The kiosks typically make use of keys with the same style as your current key, but they also can make copies of more elaborate keys such as keys for your car or home security.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the key’s unique markings onto a blank piece of. This is called key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services function by significantly reducing the time and cost.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components which must be programmed properly. These additional components such as the transponder chip that is found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, which requires specific equipment.
Key cutting can be a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional assistance when you require it. There are many locksmiths that are not to be the same, so you must seek out a reputable business with a committed team of experts who have been through rigorous training to deal with different locking mechanisms and locks. You should also seek out locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able to provide assistance in case of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and tear. A spare key can also be used when one is locked out of their home, car or other secure area because it allows them to gain access without the assistance of a locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional can either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is 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 use this imprint to cut it away the original key, creating a copy which is the same size and shape to the original.
Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This allows you to insert the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key and Keys cut and programmed near me cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is used in specific places. Instead of grinding the keys down to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types.
A key car cutting cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. However the service isn’t capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If a person wants to have their keys cut, it’s important to find 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 prefer to use an automatic or electric machine and how much they are willing to spend. The machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create the new key. This can be done manually or with a manual machine. It could also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines typically require codes that tell the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are a variety of machines that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks at the same time. These are costly, but can offer a greater variety of services.
Another alternative is to buy a set that contains the cutting machine as well as the tools required to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than buying individual tools separately and could be a good investment for anyone who wishes to get 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 many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that show its status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys, including dimples. It is equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys cut and programmed near me are more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your car and require cutting machines that are specialized. This makes them more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. This is why it’s always a good idea to purchase an extra key, so you have something to turn to if you’re in a pinch.
It is important to understand the difference between duplication and cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require will save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is less expensive than others, but is risky if the key is not made properly or the blank is of poor quality. Keys that are cut improperly can harm the lock’s cylinder, and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key cutting key-cutting machine. These machines can create laser grooves on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way, and still function. These are often called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they’re more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will select the correct key blank for your year, model, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a broad selection of transponder key options, which means you’re certain to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can even help you connect it to your car should you require it, for a fraction of the cost that you would pay at the dealership.