How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.

Having your car key cut at an automotive store like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses keys at some point, and when this occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, making it impossible to gain access to your car or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This is faster and cheaper as well as more practical.

Key cutting is the process of creating a key using a special machine. This is done to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.

Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can obtain a duplicate made by trained employees within a matter of minutes. These kiosks use a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complex designs, like car keys or home security keys.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings on a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing costs and time.

Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to function properly. These additional components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in a few home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require specialized equipment to duplicate correctly.

If you require a spare, key cutting is a quick and easy way to get one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a staff of professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of a lockout accident.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting allows for the making of spare keys, which can prevent damage to the original keys and decrease overall wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another safe place if a person has locked themselves out.

A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky surface of the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original identical in size and shape.

A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a flat surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The device forces a blade on the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. These machines can either be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This means that there is no need for car Key cut an expert.

A newer form of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to the correct dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other kinds of keys.

Key cutting services can also create 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 can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.

Key Cutting Equipment

If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of types and some of the factors that influence a person's choice are the type of key they need, whether or not they prefer to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they want to spend. The machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.

The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of one key to cut a new one. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to put the notch on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are several machines that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can save a locksmith time by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. 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 tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually less expensive than buying individual tools and can be an excellent investment for anyone looking to start a business cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and car key cut lets users access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated as well as LED lights that show its status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys, including dimples. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as as Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that is programmed to your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to purchase an extra key, so you have something to turn to if you're in a bind.

When you choose to have your car keys cutting and programming key cut, it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem similar, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing which service you require can save you money and time in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making a spare car key and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is cheaper than others, but can be risky when the key isn't created correctly or the key is not of good quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent the key from working.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specially designed. These machines can create an optical groove on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in preventing theft than regular keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, make and model, and then use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, which means you'll be able to get the right one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if needed and at a fraction of much as you would pay at a dealer.