How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace your car keys, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great option to avoid costly replacements.

cutting car key your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this occurs, it could be an absolute hiccup in your day, making it impossible to access your home or car. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This process is faster and less expensive, as well as more practical.

Key cutting is the process of duplicating the cheap key cutting using a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in form and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have an area for cutting keys where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks usually use keys with the identical design as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more intricate keys, such as keys for home or car security.

In contrast to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the key's unique markings on a blank key. This is known as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost.

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

Key cutting can be the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional assistance when you require one. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, since they'll be able to provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that one is locked out of their car, home or any other safe place since it will allow them to gain entry without the assistance of a locksmith.

Professionals can employ 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 turns black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. This impression can be used by key cutters to create a replica of the original that is identical in size and shape.

Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches are removed on the other side. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The device forces a blade on the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. These machines can be electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.

Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys, which is employed in a few places. Instead of grinding keys to get the proper dimensions, a laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys look like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys.

Key cutting services are also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. The service cannot create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when a person needs their keys cut. There are a variety of types, but some factors that influence a person's choice are the type of key they require and whether or not they want to use an automated or electric device, and the much money they want to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.

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 using a manual machine, but it can also be done using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines will typically need an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.

There are a few tools that cut mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. These are costly, however they can provide a wider range of services.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are often less expensive than purchasing individual tools, and can be an excellent investment for those who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access a variety of keys, and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to indicate its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. 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 much more than a simple piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can use it in the case of an emergency lockout.

It's important to know the difference between duplication and cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require will save you time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating an extra car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is cheaper than other options, but it could be risky if the key isn't made properly or the key is not of good quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could cause damage to the lock and prevent your key from functioning.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can create laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way while still functioning. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. These keys are also more expensive because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone the associate will select the correct key blank for your year, model and model, and then utilize a special cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if you require it and at a fraction of the cost you would pay at dealers.