How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this happens, it can be an extremely stressful day, causing you to be unable to gain access to your home or car. Most people choose to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This process is faster and cheaper as well as more practical.

Key cutting is a technique that involves duplicating the original key onto the blank key with a specially-designed 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 offer a key-cutting station where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks are equipped with keys that are blank and identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complex designs, such as home security or car keys.

The most advanced technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing time and costs.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.

When you need an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy method to obtain one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a committed team of highly skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with various locking mechanisms and locks. You should also look for a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able to provide assistance in case of a lockout accident.

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 wear and. Additionally, a spare can be used when one is locked out of their car, home or other secure area as it can allow the person to gain entry without the assistance of locksmith.

Professionals can employ 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 pressing it against the sticky side the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make a copy of the original that is identical to its size and shape.

Another option is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This allows you to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The machine forces a blade on the key and cuts each notch at the required depth. These machines are manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys. This reduces the need for an expert.

A newer form of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, laser key cutting referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to get the right dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that look like the serrated blades, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other types of test keys.

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

Key Cutting Equipment

It is crucial to select the right machine to cut keys when you need your keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision include the size and type of the key, if they want an electric or automated machine, and the amount they want spend. The machine they choose can also influence the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.

Most key cutting machines trace the profile of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to put the notch on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from the database.

There are a few machines that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These machines can be expensive however they can make it possible to offer an array of services to customers.

Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than buying the tools individually and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to start a business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access a variety of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that show its state. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys that include dimple keys. It can also be fitted with optional clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys, as well as Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern online car key cutting keys are more than just a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It is a good idea to invest in a spare key, so you have something to turn to in case you find yourself in a pinch.

When you choose to have your car keys cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear similar, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require will save you time and money in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making a spare car key, and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods, but it is risky if the key isn't created correctly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut key can harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can make an optical groove on both sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way, and still function. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in stopping theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive because they're more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will select the correct key blank for your year, make and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car, if you require it, and at a fraction of much as you would pay at the dealer.