How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly when you lose the only one. A backup key is the best defense against expensive replacements.

Having your car key cutting lowes key cut at an automotive key cutting near me store like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses keys at some time, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to access your home or car. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks entirely. This process is faster and less expensive, as well as more practical.

Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of a key using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in form and function and makes it impossible for someone else to unlock your property using an unauthentic.

Many hardware stores and big box stores offer the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks are equipped with keys that are blank and the same as your existing key. They also can make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like home security or car keys.

The most recent technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is called key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services work by drastically reducing the time and expense involved.

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

Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional help when you need one. 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. It's also important to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, as they will be able to assist in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a home, car, or other secure location if someone has locked themselves out.

A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate keys. 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 used by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original identical in size and shape.

Another method is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the original key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches are removed at the other end. This allows the key to be fitted into locks. A key can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device then pushes an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric, and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the requirement for a specialist to be present.

Laser cutting is a newer technique for cutting keys that is used in a few places. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. The keys appear like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.

A key cutting service is also able to design replacement car key cutting keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. However it isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is important to choose the right key-cutting machine when you need your keys cut. There are a variety of types, but some factors that can influence a person's decision include the type of key they need as well as whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also impact the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.

Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create a new key. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine. It can also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the key's notch. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are also a range of machines available that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. They are expensive however, they offer a wider range of services.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and can be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access a variety of keys, and provides step-bystep 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 indicate status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys including dimples. It also comes with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well being Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern keys for cars are more just a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which must be programmed to work with your car keys cut by code, Laser key cutting and they require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. It's always a good idea to have a spare key so that you can utilize it in the case of a lockout.

It's important to know the difference between duplication and cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, key cutting is making a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing the type of service you require will save you time and money in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating an extra car key and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods for making keys for replacement however, it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well constructed or the key blank isn't of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop working.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can cut laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complex and harder to find at hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the appropriate blank for your car's year and make. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, so you're sure to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can even help you connect it to your car key cutting near me prices in case you need to, at less than the price that you would pay at a dealership.