How to Get a Car Key Cut

It's expensive to replace your car keys, especially when it's the only one you have. The possession of duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements.

Cutting your car keys at a car repair shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this happens, it can be an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to get into your home or car. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks entirely. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient procedure.

Key cutting is the process of duplicating 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 have a key cutting kiosk where you can get a copy created by skilled workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks usually use a key blank that has the identical design as your current key, but they can also cut copies of more complicated keys such as car key cutting and programming or home security keys.

The most advanced technology in key replication uses 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 function by significantly reducing the time and cost.

Modern electronic keys, like those used to control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components, like the transponder chip found in car keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require special equipment to duplicate properly.

Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are equally, so look for a reputable company with a dedicated team of experts who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to find locksmiths that offer emergency services as they'll be able to provide assistance in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys, which can prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and wear and. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other secure location because it allows them to gain entry without the assistance of locksmith.

Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate keys. The tracing method involves heating the end of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side of a piece clear tape. This creates an impression. This impression can be used by key cutters to create a copy of the original that is identical in size and shape.

A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a flat surface on one side, spare with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade on the key and then cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.

Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is utilized in certain places. Instead of grinding the keys to create the proper dimensions, a laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that resemble a serrated blade which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other types of tryout keys.

A key cutting service may also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that connects to the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However, the service cannot make replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is essential to select the correct key-cutting machine for you need your keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. The factors that can affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, and the amount they want spend. The type of machine they select will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.

The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of a key in order to cut a new one. This can be done manually or using a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or code machine. These machines typically require codes that tell the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from databases.

There are a few tools that cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks at the same time. They are expensive however they can provide a wider variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are usually cheaper than buying the tools individually and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to venture into the business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access a variety of keys, and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It also comes with optional clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as being Cruciform keys.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to have a spare key, so you have something to go to in case you find yourself in a bind.

If you decide to have your car key cut it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save your 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 the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is more affordable than others, but is risky if the key isn't created correctly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop the key from working.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specialized. These machines can create laser grooves on both flat sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way, and still function. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. These keys are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the right blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you're sure to find the one that is right 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 the dealership.