How to Get a Car Key Cut

It can be costly to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great method to avoid costly replacements.

The cutting of your car's key at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. Not all hardware or locksmith establishments offer key duplication or programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at some point, and when this occurs, it can cause an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to gain access to your car or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than change their locks completely. This is a quicker, less expensive and laser key cutting more convenient procedure.

mobile key cutting service cutting is a method that involves duplicating an original key onto a blank key, using a specialised machine. This is done 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 make use of a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They can also make copies of keys with more complex designs, like home security or car keys.

The most advanced technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services work by drastically reducing the time and cost.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points have additional components that need to be programmed properly. These additional components, like a transponder chip in vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes, communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into and require special equipment to duplicate properly.

Key cutting can be a great way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional help when you need one. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a staff of professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. You should also look for locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of an emergency lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used if one is locked out of their home, car or other secure area since it will allow the person to gain entry without the need for locksmith.

To create 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 turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be used by a key cutter to make a copy of the original identical to its size and shape.

A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. These machines can be electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.

A newer kind of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few places, which is known 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 an asymmetrical blade that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other types of test keys.

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

Key Cutting Equipment

When a person gets their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, whether they want an automatic or electric machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work and how precise it is.

The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines will typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.

There are several machines which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks at the same time. These machines are expensive, but can offer a greater variety of services.

Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to start a business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys, Laser key cutting including dimples. It is equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.

Key Cutting Cost

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

It's important to know the difference between duplication and cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need 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 an instrument to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods, but it is risky if the key isn't made properly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut key can damage the lock and stop your key from working.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way, and still function. They are commonly called sidewinder keys and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year and make. 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 in programming the key to your car if needed, and at a fraction of much as you would pay at dealers.