How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly in the event that you lose only one. Duplicate keys are the best option to avoid costly 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 shops offer key duplication or programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some time. This can be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer having extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is faster and less expensive, as well as more efficient.

Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating an original key onto a blank key, using a specialised machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original one in terms of design and function which makes it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your home using an unauthentic.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can have a copy created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks usually use a key blank that has the same design as your existing key, Laser Key Cutting however, they also can make copies of more intricate keys such as keys for your car or home security.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. This is called key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services work by drastically reducing the time and cost involved.

Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. These additional components, like a transponder chip in vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes, communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into and require special equipment to duplicate correctly.

When you need a spare, key cutting is a fast and simple way to get one. However, you should always consult an expert. There are many locksmiths that are not to be the same, so you must look for a reputable company with a dedicated team of experts who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with various locking mechanisms and locks. You should also look for Laser Key Cutting 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 permits the making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that someone is locked out of their home, car or other secure area since it will allow them to gain entry without the assistance of a locksmith.

Professionals can employ either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original identical to its size and shape.

A pattern grinder is another common method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface on one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then presses a blade down onto the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.

Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting keys that is used in certain locations. Instead of grinding down keys to get the right dimensions, a laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other kinds of keys.

A key cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or lock. The service can't make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

When a person gets their keys cut, it's crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many different types and some of the factors that can influence a person's choice are the kind of key they require, 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 can also influence the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.

Most key cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create a new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine, but it can be accomplished using a laser or code. These machines require a code that tells them where to put the key's notch. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from databases.

There are also a range of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters and can help locksmiths save time by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These tools can be costly, but they can 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 an alternative option. These kits are typically cheaper than buying tools on their own and are a great option for those looking to start a business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access many keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your cheap car key cutting and require cutting machines that are specialized. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. This is why it's always a good idea to have an extra key, so you'll have something to turn to in case you find yourself in a bind.

If you decide to have your car key cut, it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem similar, key cutting is creating a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money over the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, involves using an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods, but it could be risky if the key isn't made properly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could cause damage to the lock and prevent your key from functioning.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can make a laser groove on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way while still functioning. These are often referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates use a special machine to duplicate your car key using the right blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a vast selection of transponder keys so you'll be able to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car if you require it, and at a fraction as price as you would at dealers.