How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace your car keys, especially if it is the only one you have. A backup key is the best way to avoid costly replacements.

The cutting of your car's key 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 major inconvenience, as you are unable to get into your vehicle or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This is a quicker and less expensive procedure.

Key cutting is the process of duplicating keys using a specific machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in both form and function and makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property with a fake.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can have a copy made by trained workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks use an uncut key that is the same as your existing key. They can also make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, such as keys for car keys or home security.

In contrast to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings onto a blank piece of. This is known as key-by-photo, and it revolutionises the process of key duplication by reducing time and costs.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, Emergency Key Cutting or security access points have additional components that must be programmed correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip in vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require specialized equipment to duplicate correctly.

Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain an extra key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional help when you need one. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It's also important to find locksmiths who offer emergency services as they'll be able to help in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and tear. A spare key can also be used if one is locked out of their home, car or any other safe place as it can allow them to gain entry without requiring the services of locksmith.

A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be utilized by a key cutter to make a copy of the original exactly the same size and shape.

A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Keys can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then forces a blade down onto the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. These machines are electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This eliminates the requirement for an expert.

Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is utilized in a few areas. Instead of grinding keys down to the right dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the side of the key. The keys appear like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other types of keys.

Key cutting services can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs that have an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service cannot create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is normally reserved for Getting Keys cut car dealerships and manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a myriad of models however, some elements that can influence a person's decision include the kind of key they require as well as whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric device, and the much they are willing to spend. The machine they choose can also impact the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.

Most key cutting machines trace the profile of a key to create the new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine. It can also be done with the laser or a code machine. These machines will typically require codes that tell the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from the database.

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

A kit that includes the machine and the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and could be a good option for those looking to venture into the business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. It also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to indicate status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys, including dimples. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well for cruciform keys.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They have transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your car and require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. That's why it's always wise to purchase an extra key, so you have something to turn to if you find yourself in a bind.

If you decide to have your car key cut it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear identical, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making an extra car key and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making a replacement car key however it could be risky when the key isn't correctly constructed or the key blank isn't of high-quality. A poorly cut key could harm the lock and prevent the key from working.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specialized. These machines can make an optical groove on both sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing either way while still functioning. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in protecting against theft than regular keys. These keys are also more expensive because they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores.

At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key cut places near me blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then utilize a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, which means you're sure to get the right one for your car. We can even help you program it to your vehicle should you require it, for less than the price that you would spend at the dealership.