How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Having duplicate keys is the best way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. However, 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 occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, causing you to be unable to get into your home or car. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This is faster, cheaper, and more efficient.
G28 is a process that involves replicating an original key onto the blank key with a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is identical to the original one in terms of shape and function and makes it impossible for someone else to unlock your property with an imitation.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting station where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks make use of an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complex designs, like home security or car keys.
Unlike traditional key cutting, which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is called key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services work by drastically reducing the time and expense involved.
Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components which must be programmed in order to function properly. These other components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to be part of, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate properly.
When you need an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy method of getting one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. You should also seek out a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of an accident lockout.
Key Cutting Techniques
Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another secure location if someone has locked themselves outside.
To duplicate a key, a professional may choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create a copy of the original identical to its size and shape.
Another common method is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the original key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade, and the grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This makes it easier to fit into locks. Keys 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 either be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys. This eliminates the requirement for an expert.
Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys that is used in a few places. Instead of grinding keys to make the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that resemble the serrated blades, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other types of keys for tryouts.
A key cutting service may also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. The service is not able to create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.
Key Cutting Equipment
It is crucial to select the correct key-cutting machine for you need your keys cut. There are a variety of types however, some elements that could influence a person's choice are the type of key they require as well as whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric machine and how much they are willing to spend. The type of machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.
The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done manually or with a manual machine. It can also be done with the laser or a code machine. These machines typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from a database.
There are a few tools that cut both cylinder and mortice locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These machines are expensive, however, they offer a wider range of services.
A kit that includes the machine and the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately 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 designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access various keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that indicate its status. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys, including dimples. It also comes with optional clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys, as as Cruciform keys.
Key Cutting Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than simply a piece of metal. They have transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your vehicle and require specialized cutting machinery. They are more costly to replace in the event they are lost or taken. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can use it in the case of a lockout.
It's crucial to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need can help you save money and time in the long run.
Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making a spare car key, and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is cheaper than other options, but it can be risky when the key isn't made properly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could harm the lock and prevent the key from working.
Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specialized. These machines can create laser grooves on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. These are often called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. These keys are also more expensive since they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores.
At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a variety of transponder key options, which means you're certain to find the right one for your vehicle. We can even help you program it to your vehicle should you require it, for only a fraction of the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.