How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the best option to avoid costly replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or Get a Car Key Cut programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This could be a major hassle since you’re unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.
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 in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores offer a key-cutting station where you can have a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks make use of keys that are blank and exactly like your existing key. They can also make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like keys for car keys or home security.
The latest technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. It’s called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to work correctly. These other components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys cut for cars, or a microchip embedded in some home security keys communicate with the system they’re designed to be part of and require special equipment to duplicate correctly.
Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain an extra key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional assistance when you require one. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should seek out a reputable business with a team of highly skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to handle different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of an emergency lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a house, car, or other safe location if someone is locked out.
A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. The tracing method involves heating the end of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side the piece of clear tape. This creates an impression. Key cutters can use this imprint to cut it away, making a copy that is exactly the same in size and shape to the original.
Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches are removed at the other end. This makes it easier to insert into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with a punch machine, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The machine applies a blade on the key and then cuts each notch at the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This means that there is no need for a specialist.
Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys, which is employed in specific places. Instead of grinding down keys to get the right dimensions the laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types.
A key cutting service may also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle’s or lock’s immobilizer system. The service can’t make replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is essential to select the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of models, but some factors that affect a person’s choice include the type of key they need and whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric machine, and how much money they want to spend. The type of machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual however, it could also be done using a laser or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to put the notch on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from databases.
There are several machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths’ time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These machines are expensive, however they can provide a wider variety of services.
Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and could be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. It also comes with an accessory tray built-in 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 optional clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are stolen or Get a Car Key Cut lost. It’s always an excellent idea to have a spare key in case you can access it in the situation of a lockout.
It is important to understand the difference between duplication and key cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money over the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of creating a spare car key and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods for making an alternative car key cutters near me key however, it can be risky in the event that the key isn’t well constructed or the key blank isn’t high-quality. A poorly cut key could harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can make an optical groove on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way while still functioning. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys since they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
AutoZone’s associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key by using the correct blank for your vehicle’s year, make and model. We have a variety of transponder key options, so you are sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can also help you program it to your vehicle should you require it, for only a fraction of the price that you would spend at an auto dealer.