How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially when you lose the only one. A backup key is the best way to avoid costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. However, not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses their keys at some time. This could be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to get into your vehicle or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks completely. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient process.
Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key using a special machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in form and function and makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property using an unauthentic.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have a copy made in minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks typically use keys with the identical design as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more intricate keys, such as keys for home or car security.
The most advanced technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is called key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by drastically reducing the time and cost involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components which must be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip that is found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, and require specific equipment.
When you need a spare key, cutting is a quick and easy way to get one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. Not all locksmiths are to be the same, so you must seek out a reputable business with a dedicated team of highly skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training in dealing with various locking mechanisms and locks. You should also look for locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able assist you in the event of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and wear and. A spare key can be used to gain access to a home, car, or other secure location if someone is locked out.
A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This leaves an imprint. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.
A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to fit into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines. A punch machine is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The machine applies an edge onto the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines can be electric or manual and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.
Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys, which is employed in certain areas. Instead of grinding the keys to the right dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The keys appear like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types of keys.
A key cutting service may create replacement keys for electronic key fobs which feature an embedded chip that connects to the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. However, the service cannot create replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming that is usually reserved for dealerships or automobile manufacturers.
mobile car key cutting Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose the right key-cutting machine when a person needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the size and style of the key, whether they prefer an automatic or electric machine, and the amount they want spend. The tool they select will also influence the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.
Most key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create the new key. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual but it can be accomplished using a code or laser machine. These machines will typically require a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. mobile car key cutting can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from databases.
There are a few machines which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These machines can be expensive, but they can also make it possible to offer more services to customers.
Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than buying individual tools, and can be an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch an operation that cuts keys.
The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen 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 to indicate status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys, including dimple keys. It is equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They have transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your vehicle and require specialized cutting machinery. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It is a good idea to purchase an extra key, so you have something to turn to in the event that you find yourself in a pinch.
When you choose to have your car keys cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require will save you time and money in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of creating a spare car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is more affordable than others, but can be risky when the key is not made properly or the key is not of good quality. Keys that are cut improperly can damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specially designed. These machines can cut a laser groove on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a broad selection of transponder key options, so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can even help you program it to your vehicle in case you need to, at a fraction of the cost that you would pay at the dealership.