How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective method to avoid costly replacements.

Cutting your car key cutting near me keys at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. Not all hardware or locksmith stores offer key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this occurs, it can cause an absolute hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than changing their locks entirely. This process is faster and cheaper as well as more efficient.

Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating an original key on an uncut key, using a specialised machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have an area for cutting keys where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks use an uncut key that is the same as your existing key. They can also make copies of keys with more complex designs, like car keys or home security keys.

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

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed to work correctly. These additional components, like a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to be part of 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 seek advice from an expert. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able to assist you in the event of a lockout accident.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys, which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used if someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other safe place as it can allow them to gain entry without requiring the services of a locksmith.

To make a duplicate key, a professional could either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create a replica of the original exactly the same size and shape.

A pattern grinder is a different common method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface at one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes the key easier to fit into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device forces a blade onto the key and cuts each notch at the required depth. These machines are electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This eliminates the need for a specialist.

A newer type of key cutting technique is being used in some places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to make the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types.

Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or lock. The service cannot create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.

Key Cutting Equipment

If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many different types however, emergency key cutting some elements that could influence a person's choice are the type of key they require and whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric machine and how much money they want to spend. The machine they choose can also influence the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.

The majority of key cutting machines trace the outline of an existing key to create an entirely new key. This can locksmith cut car keys be done manually or using a manual machine. It can also be done using the 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 be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are a few machines that can cut both cylinder and Emergency key cutting mortice locks. Dual key cutters are available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These are costly, but can offer a greater range of services.

A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are typically cheaper than buying individual tools separately and could be a good investment for someone who wants 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 is removable and allows users to access various keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys including dimples. It also comes with optional clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well for Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece made of metal. They have a transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always a good idea to have a spare key in case you can use it in the event of an emergency key cutting lockout.

If you're considering having your car key cut, it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require can save you money and time in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating a spare car key, and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods, but it is risky if the key isn't made properly or the key is not of good quality. Keys that are cut improperly can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop working.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specially designed. These machines can cut a laser groove on both flat sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way while still functioning. They are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores.

At AutoZone the associate will select the correct key blank for your year, model and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys so you'll be able that you get the correct one for your car. We can even help you connect it to your car if necessary, at a fraction of the cost that you would spend at an auto dealer.