How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, especially when you lose the only one. A backup key is the best defense against expensive replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some point. This can be a major hassle since you're unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. Most people prefer having extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This process is quicker and less expensive, as well as more efficient.

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

A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can have a copy created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks are equipped with an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They can also make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like home security or car keys.

The most advanced technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work 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 to work correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require specialized equipment to duplicate properly.

Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should seek out a reputable business with a committed team of experts who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locking mechanisms and locks. You should also look for locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able assist you in the event of an accident lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and reduces wear and wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used if someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or other secure area as it can allow the person to gain entry without requiring the services of locksmith.

Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be used by a key cutter to make a copy of the original that is identical to its size and shape.

A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It grinds 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 insert into locks. A key can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. These machines are either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.

A newer type of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down keys to make the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that resemble an asymmetrical blade which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other types of keys for tryouts.

Key cutting services are also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or lock. However, the service cannot make replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

If a person wants to have their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a myriad of models however, some elements that can affect a person's choice include the kind of key they require, whether or not they wish to use an automated or electric machine and how much money they want to spend. The machine they choose will also influence the quality and precision of their work.

Most key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of one key to cut new ones. This can be done manually or with a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to put the notch on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are several machines that cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These tools can be costly, but they can also enable locksmiths to provide a wider range of services to customers.

Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine as well as the tools required to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than buying the tools individually and can be a good investment for someone who wants to start a business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access various 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, laser key Cutting as well as LED lights to show the status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys including dimples. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as for Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern keys for cars are more just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your car and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they get stolen or lost. This is why it's always a good idea to have an extra key, so you have something to go to in case you're in a bind.

When you choose to have your car keys cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying a key. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of creating a spare car key and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of making a replacement car key, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't of high-quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could damage the lock and stop your key from functioning.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in protecting against theft than normal keys. These keys cut and programmed near me are also more expensive because they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and laser key cutting model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you can be sure to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car if required and at a fraction of the cost to get car key cut you would pay at a dealer.