How to Get a Car Key Cut

It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.

You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one point, and when this occurs, it can cause an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to gain access to your car or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks completely. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient process.

Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key using a special machine. This is done in order 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 have a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. The kiosks typically make use of keys with the identical design as your current key, but they can also cut copies of more complicated keys such as keys for home or car security.

Unlike traditional key cutting, which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. This is called key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services function by significantly reducing the time and expense involved.

Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip in car keys and the embedded microchip found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, which requires specialised equipment.

If you require a spare key, cutting is a quick and easy way to get one. However, you should always consult an expert. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. You should also seek out locksmiths who provide emergency services. They can help you out in the event of an emergency lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used if someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or other secure area because it allows them to gain entry without the need for locksmith.

To duplicate a key, a professional can choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. This impression can be used by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original that is identical in size and shape.

Another common method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed at the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the required depth. These machines are either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the requirement for a specialist to be present.

Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys that is used in certain areas. Instead of grinding the keys down to the right dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to an asymmetrical blade, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other types of test keys.

A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or locks. The service is not able to make replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is essential to select the correct key-cutting car key machine for someone needs their keys cut. There are many different types, but some factors that influence a person's decision include the kind of key they require and whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric machine and how much they are willing to spend. The machine they choose can also influence the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.

The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It could also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to put the key's notch. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.

There are a few machines that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These are costly, however they can provide a wider range of services.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are usually cheaper than buying tools on their own and are a great option for those looking to start a business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide range of keys and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys, including dimple keys. It is also equipped with clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys, as well for cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are much more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which need to be programmed to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. This makes them more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep an extra key in case you can utilize it in the case of an emergency lockout.

It is important to understand the difference between duplication and key cutting key (a knockout post) when you decide to get your car keys cut. Though they might seem similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money over the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, involves using an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is more affordable than other options, but it could be risky if the key isn't made correctly or the key is not of good quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent your key from working.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specially designed. These machines can cut laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. They are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.

At AutoZone the associate will choose the right key blank for your year, Cutting Key year of manufacture, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you'll be able to get the right one for your vehicle. We can also help you programme it to your car in case you need to, at only a fraction of the price that you would spend at the dealership.