How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, especially when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.

The cutting of your car's key at a car repair shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some time. This could be a huge inconvenience because you're unable get into your vehicle or home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is a quicker, cheaper and more convenient procedure.

Key cutting is a process that involves copying an original key on an uncut key, by using a special machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can have a copy made by trained employees in just a few minutes. These kiosks use keys that are blank and exactly like your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complex designs, such as car keys or home security keys.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.

Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to function correctly. These additional components, like the transponder chip found in car keys, or a microchip embedded in a few home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into and require special equipment to duplicate properly.

If you require an extra key, cutting it is a fast and simple method of getting one. However, you should always consult a professional. Not all locksmiths are created to be the same, so you must look for a reputable company with a dedicated team of skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training to handle different locking mechanisms and locks. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services as they can provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting is a method of making of spare keys, which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used when one is locked out of their home, car or any other secure location since it will allow them to gain access without the assistance of locksmith.

Professionals can employ either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the 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 of clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create a copy of the original identical in size and shape.

A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface on one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key fob cut near me to fit into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using a punch machine, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The machine applies a blade onto the key and then cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines can either be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This reduces the need for an expert.

A newer type of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down keys to get the correct dimensions the laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that look like an asymmetrical blade which offers more protection against bump keys and other kinds of test keys.

A key cutting service can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs that have an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.

Key Cutting Equipment

When a person gets their keys cut, it is important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. The factors that can affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, if they want an electric or automatic machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The tool they select will also affect the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.

The majority of key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the key's notch. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from the database.

There are a variety of machines available that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutting services cutters. They help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These are costly, however they can provide a wider variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools and can be an excellent investment for those looking to start a business cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys, and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and spare key cutting cutting them. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated as well as LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys that include dimples. It is able to be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they are lost or taken. It is a good idea to purchase an extra key, so you'll have something to turn to in the event that you find yourself in a bind.

If you're considering having your car key cut it's crucial to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require can save you time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making a Spare Key Cutting car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is more affordable than other options, but it could be risky if the key is not made correctly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specifically designed. These machines can make an optical groove on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. They are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. These keys are also more expensive since they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key blank for your year, model, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options, so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car key cutting price, if you require it and for a fraction of the cost the cost you would pay at a dealer.