How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, particularly in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best 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 locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses keys at some point, and when this happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to access your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a quicker, cheaper and more convenient process.
Key cutting is a process that involves copying an original key on a 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 have the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get copies made in just a few minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks usually use keys that have the same style as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more intricate keys, such as keys for home or car security.
The most advanced technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed properly. These additional components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require specialized equipment to duplicate properly.
If you require an extra key, cutting it is a simple and quick method to obtain one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. cutting car keys near me G28CarKeys is also essential to find locksmiths who offer emergency services as they'll be able to help in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that someone is locked out of their home, car or any other secure location because it allows them to gain access without the assistance of a locksmith.
To create a duplicate key, a professional may choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by a key cutter to make a copy of the original that is identical in size and shape.
Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches are removed on the other side. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. A key 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, cutting each notch to the desired depth. These machines can either be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys. This reduces the need for a specialist.
A newer type of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the side of the key. This results in keys that look like the serrated blades that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of keys for tryouts.
A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision are the type and size of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality and precision of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the outline of an existing key to create the new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine. It can also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are also a number of machines available that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They save a locksmith time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. They can be expensive however they can enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are typically cheaper than buying the tools individually and could be a good option for those looking to venture into the business of cutting keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a large range of keys, and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. It also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights that indicate the its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with optional clamps to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than simply a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which must be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they get lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can access it in the case of a lockout.
It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. Though they might seem similar, key cutting is creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you require can help you save money and time in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating keys for replacement, but it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well constructed or the key blank isn't high-quality. Insufficiently-cut key can harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive because they're more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use an instrument that can duplicate your car key using the right blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a broad selection of transponder key options, so you're sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if required and at a fraction as the cost you would pay at the dealer.