How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly in the event that you lose only one. Duplicate keys are the best method to avoid costly replacements.
Having your car key cut at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. But not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer key duplication and programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some time, and when this happens, it can be a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to gain access to your car or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks entirely. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more efficient.
Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating an original key onto an uncut key, using a specialised machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in shape and function which makes it impossible for someone else to unlock your property with a fake.
A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. The kiosks typically make use of keys that have the same style as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more complicated keys such as keys for your car or home security.
The most advanced technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the process of key duplication by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components which must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip that is found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, which requires specialised equipment.
Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they'll be able to assist in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting allows for the making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or other secure area as it can allow them to gain access without requiring the services of locksmith.
A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate keys. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This creates an impression. A key cutter will utilize this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is exactly the same in size and shape to the original.
Another method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are gone on the other side. This allows the key to be fitted into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine applies a blade on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This means that there is no requirement for an expert.
A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to make the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that look like the serrated blades which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other types of keys for tryouts.
A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that connects to the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. The service is not able to create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision are the size and style of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of a key in order to cut another one. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual, but it can also be done using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the key's notch. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.
There are a variety of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These are costly, however, they offer a wider variety of services.
Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than buying tools on their own and can be a good investment for someone who wants to start a business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide variety of keys and offers step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated as well as LED lights that show its current status. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It is equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern car keys are much more than just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that require programming to work with your vehicle, and they 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 invest in an extra key, so you have something to turn to if you find yourself in a pinch.
It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making a spare car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a 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 made of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause the key to stop functioning.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These are often called sidewinder keys 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 are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.
AutoZone's associates use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. g28carkeys have a vast selection of transponder keys so you're sure to find the correct one for your car. We can even help you programme it to your car if necessary, at a fraction of the cost that you would spend at a dealership.