How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.

You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. Not all hardware or locksmith establishments offer key duplication or programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at some moment, and when that occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, making it impossible to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a quicker and less expensive procedure.

Key cutting is the process of duplicating the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores offer a key-cutting station where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks use a blank key cutting locksmith near me that is exactly like your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as keys for car keys or home security.

In contrast to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank piece of. This is called key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the time and expense involved.

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

Key cutting can be the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are created to be the same, so you must choose a reputable firm with a dedicated team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services, as they will be able to help in the event of an accidental lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys which can prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a house, car, or other safe location if someone has locked themselves out.

A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side a piece clear tape. This creates an imprint. Key cutters can utilize this imprint to cut it away, making a copy that is the same size and Laser key cutting shape to the original.

Another common method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches are removed on the other side. This allows the key to fit into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The device forces a blade onto the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. These machines can be manual or electric, and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.

A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys down to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The keys appear like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other types.

Key cutting services can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs which feature an embedded chip that connects to the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. The service cannot create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and 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 types and some of the factors that affect a person's choice include the kind of key they require as well as whether or not they prefer to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much money they want to spend. The machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.

The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the profile of one key to cut another one. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine but it can be accomplished using a laser or code. These machines will typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.

There are a variety of machines that are able to cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks at the same time. These machines are expensive, however, they offer a wider range of services.

Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine and tools required to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing the tools individually and can be an excellent investment for someone planning to launch an operation that cuts keys.

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

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which need to be programmed to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep a spare key so that you can access it in the case of an emergency lockout.

It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they might appear similar, laser key cutting duplication is the act of copying a key. Knowing which one you require will save you money and time in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires the key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of making keys for replacement, but it can be risky when the key isn't correctly made or the key blank isn't high-quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove on both sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing either way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in preventing theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone, an associate will choose the right key blank for your year, make and model, and then use a special cutting car key machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a broad selection of transponder keys, so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car, if required and at a fraction of the cost you would pay at dealers.