How to Get a Car Key Cut
It's expensive to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.
You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.
What is Key Cutting?
Everyone loses their keys at some point. This could be a major hassle since you're unable to get into your vehicle or home. Most people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is faster, cheaper, and more efficient.
Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores provide an area for cutting keys where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks typically use keys with the same style as your current key, but they can also cut copies of more elaborate keys such as keys for your car or home security.
The latest 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. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the process of key duplication by reducing time and costs.
Modern electronic keys, such as keys used to control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to work correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip that is found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.
If you require a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should look for a reputable company with a team of skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services as they can provide assistance in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting permits the making of spare keys, which can prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and tear. A spare key can also be used in the event that someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or other secure area as it can allow them to gain entry without the need for locksmith.
To make a duplicate key, a professional can choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. A key cutter can then utilize this imprint to cut it away the original key, creating a copy which is identical in size and shape to the original.
A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a flat surface on one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to insert into locks. A key can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the 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 a variety of keys. This reduces the need for an expert.
A newer type of key cutting technique is also being used in some places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys down to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the side of the key. The keys resemble an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types.
www.g28carkeys.co.uk cutting service may also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service cannot create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is important to choose 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 include the size and style of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The machine they choose will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the profile of a key to create an entirely new key. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual however, it could also be done using a laser or code. These machines will typically need codes that tell the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from a database.
There are a few tools which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. They can be expensive however they also allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing individual tools, and can be an excellent investment for someone who wants to start an operation 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-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to indicate status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with optional clamps to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Costs
Modern car keys are more than simply a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which needs to be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key so that you can use it in the situation 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. While they might appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying a key. Knowing which service you need will save you money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, uses the key-cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating keys for replacement, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't of high-quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can create an optical groove on both sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way while still functioning. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at 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.
AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even help you program it to your vehicle if necessary, at less than the price that you would spend at a dealership.