How to Get a Car Key Cut

It's expensive to replace the keys to your car key cutting cost, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This can be a major inconvenience, as you are unable to access your car or home. Most people prefer having extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a quicker and less expensive procedure.

Key cutting is the process of creating keys using a specific machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in form and function.

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 worker. The kiosks typically make use of keys with the same design as your existing key, however, they can also make copies of more complicated keys such as car or home security keys.

In contrast to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the key's unique markings onto a blank piece of. This is called key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services function by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys and the embedded microchip found in some home security vw key cut by vin near me communicate with their respective systems, and require special key cutting equipment.

When you need an extra key, cutting it is a simple and quick method to obtain one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. You should not settle for 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 seek out a locksmith who offers emergency services. They can help you out in the event of an accident lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys, and laser key cutting also reduces wear and tear. A spare key can also be used if one is locked out of their car, home or any other secure location because it allows them to gain access without the need for locksmith.

A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. This impression can be utilized by key cutters to create a replica of the original that is identical to its size and shape.

A pattern grinder is a different common method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert into locks. Keys can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The machine applies a blade onto the key and then cuts each notch to the desired depth. The machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.

A newer type of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. This results in keys that look like a serrated blade, which provides more protection against bump keys and other types of test keys.

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

Key Cutting Equipment

It is important to choose the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are a variety of types and some of the factors that influence a person's choice are the type of key they require as well as whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much they are willing to spend. The machine they choose will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.

Most key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut a new one. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual however, it could be accomplished using a laser or code. These machines typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.

There are a few machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They can help locksmiths save time by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. These tools can be costly however they can enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers.

A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing the tools individually and can be an excellent investment for anyone looking to start an enterprise that cuts keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen is removable and allows users to access a variety of keys, and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that show its current status. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It is able to be fitted with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are more than a mere piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to purchase an extra key, so you'll have something to turn to in case you find yourself in a bind.

If you decide to have your car key cut, it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you require can save you time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses an instrument for cutting keys to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is less expensive than others, but is risky if the key isn't created correctly or the blank is of poor quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop working.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can cut laser grooves on both flat sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way and still function. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in protecting against theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates 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 offer a wide selection of transponder key cutting near me key options so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if required and at a fraction as the cost you would pay at dealers.