How to Get a Car Key Cut

It's expensive to replace your car keys, especially if it is the only one you have. The possession of duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.

Having your car key cut at a car repair shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This can be a huge inconvenience since you're unable to get into your vehicle or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This is faster, cheaper, and more practical.

Key cutting is a technique that involves copying an original key on an uncut key, by using a special machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.

Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate created by skilled workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks make use of an uncut key that is exactly like your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as home security or car keys.

Unlike traditional key cutting, which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely duplicate the key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is referred to as key by photo, and key cut it is changing the way key duplication services operate by significantly reducing the time and cost involved.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components which must be programmed correctly. These other components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate properly.

Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain an extra key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a staff of professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. You should also look for locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able provide assistance in case of an accident lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys which can protect keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to your home or car, or any other secure location if someone has locked themselves outside.

Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an imprint. A key cutter can then use this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is exactly the same in dimensions and shape to the original.

A pattern grinder is another popular 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 the key easier to be fitted into locks. Keys can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The device forces a blade onto the key and then cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric, and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.

A newer type of key cutting technique is being used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to create the right dimensions, a laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that look like the serrated blades that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of test keys.

A key cutting service can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that connects to the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However it cannot create replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

If someone needs their keys cut, it's crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision are the size and style of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automated machine, and the amount they want spend. The machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.

Most key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done manually or using a manual machine however, it could also be done with a code or laser machine. These machines typically require codes that tell the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

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

Another option is to purchase a kit that includes both the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than buying tools on their own and could be a good 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. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable lets users access a wide variety of keys and offers step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that show its state. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with optional clamps to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that require programming to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to have a spare key, so you have something to turn to in case you find yourself in a pinch.

When you choose to have your cheap car key cutting near me key cut, it's crucial to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which one you require can save you time and money in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making a spare car key, and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is more affordable than others, but could be risky if the key isn't made correctly or the key is not of good quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent your key from working.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way while still functioning. These are often called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key using the correct blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can also help you connect it to your car in case you need to, at only a fraction of the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.