How to Get a Car Key Cut

It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly in the case of only one you have. A backup key is the best way to avoid expensive replacements.

You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. Not all hardware or locksmith stores offer key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some point. This could be a major inconvenience, as you are unable to access your vehicle or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This is a faster and less expensive process.

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

Many hardware stores and big box stores have the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks use a blank key that is identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as home security or car keys.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings onto a blank key. It's called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the process of key duplication by reducing costs and time.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment.

If you require a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. Not all locksmiths are to be the same, so you must seek out a reputable business with a team of skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training to handle various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to find locksmiths that offer Emergency key cutting services as they will be able to provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys, which can protect keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and wear and. A spare key can be used to gain access to a home or car, or any other secure location if someone is locked out.

A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. 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 clear tape to leave an imprint. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut around, making a copy that is exactly the same in size and shape to the original.

Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade, and the grooves and notches are gone at the other end. This makes the key easier to fit into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The machine applies a blade onto the key and then cuts each notch to the desired depth. The machines can be either manual or electric, and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.

Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys that is utilized in a few places. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The result is keys that resemble a serrated blade, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other types of test keys.

A key cutting service can 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 normally reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

If someone needs their keys cut new car key near me, it's crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many different types and some of the factors that could influence a person's decision include the kind of key they require, whether or not they want to use an automated 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 trace the contour of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done manually or with a manual machine however, it could also be done with a code or emergency key cutting laser machine. These machines typically require codes that tell the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are several machines which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. They are expensive however, they offer a wider variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and could be a good investment for someone who wants to get into the business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access a variety of 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 current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car keys are more than simply a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have a spare key so that you can utilize it in the event of an emergency lockout.

It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, key cutting is creating a brand new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which one you require will save you time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is less expensive than others, but could be risky if the key is not made correctly or the key is not of good quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause your key to stop working.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specifically designed. These machines can create a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and permit 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 standard 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.

AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car key using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if you require it and for a fraction of the cost the cost you would pay at the dealer.