How to Get a Car Key Cut

It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially when it's the only one you have. The possession of duplicate keys is the best protection against expensive replacements.

The cutting of your car's key at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. Not all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some point. This can be a major hassle because you're unable access your vehicle 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 a process that involves replicating an original key on a blank key, by using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the key matches the original both in shape 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 skilled worker. These kiosks usually use keys that have the same design as your existing key, however, they can also make copies of more intricate keys such as van keys cut near me for home or car security.

Unlike traditional key cutting, which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the process of key duplication by reducing costs and time.

Modern electronic keys, like ones used to 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 in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.

Key cutting is a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. There are many locksmiths that are not equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a committed team of highly skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training to handle different locks and locking mechanisms. You should also seek out locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able to help you out in the event of a lockout accident.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare car key cut keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. A spare 24 hour key cutting can also be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another secure location if someone has locked themselves out.

A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. The tracing method is 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 imprint. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original identical to its size and shape.

A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a flat surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. Keys can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. These machines can be manual or electric, and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.

A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to make the correct dimensions, a laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types of keys.

A key cutting service can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that communicates with the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. However, the service cannot make replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming that is usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

If a person wants to have their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. The factors that can affect a person's choice include the size and type of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automated machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.

The majority of key cutting machines trace the outline of a key to create a new key. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines typically require a code that tells the machine where to place 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 few machines that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They can help locksmiths save time by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These machines can be expensive however they also enable locksmiths to provide a wider range of services to customers.

Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and can be a good investment for anyone who wishes to start a business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a broad variety of keys and offers step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys including 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 key.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece made of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they get stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key in case you can utilize it in the event of an emergency lockout.

When you choose to have your car keys cut, it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key cutting services duplication is the more traditional way of making an extra car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is less expensive than other options, but it could be risky if the key is not made correctly or the key is not of good quality. Insufficiently-cut key can cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specially designed. These machines can make an optical groove on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, make and model, and then use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys, which means you're sure to find the correct one for your car. We can help you program the key to your car if you require it, and for a fraction of the cost the cost you would pay at a dealer.