How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly in the event that you lose only one. The possession of duplicate keys is the best way to avoid expensive replacements.

Cutting your car keys at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. Not all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one moment, and when that happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to gain access to your home or car. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than changing their locks entirely. This process is faster and less expensive, as well as more practical.

Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating the original key onto a blank key, by using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key matches the original both in form and function.

Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can get a copy made by trained employees within a matter of minutes. These kiosks use a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They can also make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like home security or car keys.

In contrast to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings on a blank key. This is known as key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services function 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 properly. These additional components such as the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, which requires specific equipment.

Key cutting can be the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional assistance when you require one. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a staff of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services. They can provide assistance in case of an emergency lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting permits the 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 be used to gain access to your home or vehicle, or another safe place if a person is locked out.

A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. When using 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 the clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter will make use of this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is exactly the same in dimensions and shape to the original.

Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder that takes the original key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with 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. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with various keys. This means that there is no requirement for an expert.

Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys, which is employed in certain areas. Instead of grinding the keys to the proper dimensions the 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 is also able of creating 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 isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming often reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when someone needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. Some factors that may affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, whether they want an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.

The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the profile of one key to cut a new one. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual but it can be accomplished using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to put the notch on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.

There are a few tools which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks simultaneously. They are expensive however they can provide a wider variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are often cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and can be an excellent investment for someone who wants to start a business cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access various keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys that include dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle and require specialized cutting machinery. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. That's why it's always wise to have an extra key, so you have something to turn to in the event that you're in a pinch.

It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. While they might appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need can save you money and time in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of creating a spare car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating a replacement car key however it could be risky when the key isn't correctly constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut key can locksmith cut car keys damage the lock and stop your key from working.

laser key cutting near me key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specially designed. These machines can cut an optical groove on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way, and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in stopping theft than regular 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.

At AutoZone the associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, model and model, and then utilize a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a broad selection of transponder key options, so you are sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if needed, and at a fraction as price as you would at dealers.