How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. A backup key is the best defense against expensive replacements.
Having your car key cut at a car repair shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at one point, and when this occurs, it can cause an extremely stressful day, making it impossible to get into your home or car. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient process.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in form 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 skilled worker. These kiosks typically use a key blank that has the same design as your existing key, however, they also can make copies of more complicated keys such as keys for home or car security.
The most recent technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.
Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control car lock systems, or security access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components such as the transponder chip in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.
If you require a spare, key cutting is a fast and simple way to get one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. There are many locksmiths that are not to be the same, so you must seek out a reputable business with a committed team of skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training in dealing with various locking mechanisms and locks. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, since they will be able to help in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a house, car, or other safe location if someone is locked out.
A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create a copy of the original that is identical in size and shape.
Another method is to use a pattern grinder, that takes the original key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This makes the key easier to be fitted into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the required depth. These machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.
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 the material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other kinds of keys.
A key cutting service may also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that communicates with the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. However the service cannot create replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the correct key-cutting machine for someone needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. G28 Car Keys UK that may affect a person's choice include the type and size of the key, if they want an electric or automated machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also influence the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine but it can also be done with the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the key's notch. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are a few tools that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They help locksmiths save time by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. They are expensive however, they offer a wider variety of services.
A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and are an excellent investment for anyone who wants to start an operation that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys, and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. The machine also has an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to indicate status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It can be equipped with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you'll have something to turn to in case you're in a bind.
It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying a key. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making an extra car key and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods for making keys for replacement however, it can be risky when the key isn't correctly created or the key blank isn't of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop working.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can create an optical groove on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit inside the lock-cylinder either way. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective at preventing theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, make and model, and then use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys so you're sure to find the correct one for your car. We can even help you connect it to your car in case you need to, at a fraction of the cost that you would spend at a dealership.