How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially in the event that you lose only one. Duplicate keys are a great method to avoid costly replacements.
Cutting your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This can be a major inconvenience, since you're unable to access your vehicle or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This process is quicker and cheaper as well as more convenient.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating keys using a specific machine. This is done to make sure that the key matches the original both in form and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer a key-cutting station where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks make use of a blank key that is exactly like your existing key. key car cutting G28 Car Keys UK can also cut copies of keys with more complex designs, like home security or car keys.
Contrary to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed to function correctly. These additional components, like a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into and require specialized equipment to duplicate properly.
Key cutting can be the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should seek out a reputable business with a committed team of highly skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking mechanisms. You should also seek out locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of a lockout accident.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to the original keys and decrease overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a home or car, or any other secure location if someone is locked out.
To create a duplicate key, a professional may choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky side of a piece clear tape. This leaves an imprint. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut away, making a copy that is the same size and shape to the original.
Another common method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This allows you to insert the key into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The device then pushes a blade to the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys, which is employed in certain locations. Instead of grinding down keys to make the right dimensions the laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that resemble an asymmetrical blade which offers more protection against bump keys and other kinds of keys for tryouts.
A key cutting service may also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs which feature an embedded chip that connects to the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However it cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming that is typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
When a person gets their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision include the size and style of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, and how much they want spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut a new one. This can be done manually or with a manual machine however, it could be accomplished using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines typically require a code 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 a few machines which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. They are expensive however they can provide a wider range of services.
Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and could be a good option for those looking to start a business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable lets users access a wide range of keys, and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting the keys. It also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate the its status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys, including dimples. It can also be fitted with clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as being Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern keys for cars are more just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chip that is programmed to your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It is a good idea to purchase a spare key, so you have something to turn to if you're in a bind.
If you decide to have your car keys cut, it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear similar, duplication is the act of copying a key. Knowing which service you need can save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of making a spare car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it is risky if the key is not made correctly or the blank is of poor quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specifically designed. These machines can cut laser grooves on both flat sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way, and still function. These are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates will use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key by using the appropriate blank for your car's year and make. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, which means you'll be able to get the right one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if you require it, and at a fraction of much as you would pay at a dealer.