How to Get a Car Key Cut
It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best option to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. There aren't all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses keys at some point, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to get into your home or car. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient process.
Key cutting is the process of creating a key using a special machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original in shape and function, making it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property with a fake.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks use an uncut key that is exactly like your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complicated designs, like car keys or home security keys.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the process of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, like those used to control the security of car locks or access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys or an embedded microchip in some home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to fit into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate correctly.
When you need an extra key, cutting it is a simple and quick way to get one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. G28 is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a staff of professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to find locksmiths who offer emergency services as they'll be able to provide assistance in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to your home, car, or other safe location if someone is locked out.
To duplicate a key, a professional could choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the end of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side of a piece clear tape. This creates an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original that is identical in size and shape.
Another common method is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the original key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using punch machines, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This means that there is no need for an expert.
Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is utilized in specific places. Instead of grinding down keys to make the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The keys look like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other kinds of keys.
Key cutting services are also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision are the size and type of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The machine they choose can also influence the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of one key to cut a new one. This can be done manually or using a manual machine. It can also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to put the key's notch. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from the database.
There are several machines that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These tools can be costly however they can make it possible to offer a wider range of services to customers.
Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are often less expensive than buying the tools individually and can be an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access various keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights that indicate the status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It also comes with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well for Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern keys for cars are more simply a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have a spare key so that you can access it in the case of an emergency lockout.
If you decide to have your car keys cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need will save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making an extra car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating a replacement car key, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly constructed or the key blank isn't of high-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 is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit inside the lock-cylinder either way. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in preventing theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone the associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if required and for a fraction of the cost much as you would pay at the dealer.