How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Having duplicate keys is the best protection against costly replacements.

The cutting of your car's key at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. Not all hardware or locksmith stores offer key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at some time, and when this occurs, it can cause an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to gain access to your home or car. A majority of people prefer to have extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient process.

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

Many hardware stores and big box stores have an area for cutting keys where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks make use of keys that are blank and identical to your current key. They also can make copies of keys with more complex designs, like keys for car key cutter keys or home security.

In contrast to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. This is referred to as key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services work by significantly reducing the time and expense involved.

Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring specific equipment.

If you require a spare key, cutting is a quick and easy method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education to deal with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, since they can assist in the event of an accidental lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys, which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a home or car, Get a Car Key Cut or any other safe location if someone has locked themselves outside.

A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. The tracing method involves heating the tip of the key until it is black and pressing it against the sticky side of a piece clear tape. This leaves an imprint. This impression can be used by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original that is identical in size and shape.

A pattern grinder is a different common method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a flat surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The device forces a blade on the key and then cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys. This reduces the need for an expert.

Laser cutting is a newer technique for cutting keys, which is employed in specific areas. Instead of grinding keys to make the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to an asymmetrical blade, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of tryout keys.

A key cutting service can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is important to choose the correct key-cutting machine for you need your keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. Some factors that may affect a person's choice include the type and size of the key, if they want an electric or automated machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also impact the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.

Most key cutting machines trace the contour of a key in order to create a new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines will typically need 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 also a range of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. They can be expensive however they can enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers.

Another option is to purchase a kit that includes both the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and are a great investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable lets users access a wide range of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. The machine also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate the status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys that include dimples. It is equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys as well as 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 transponder chips which must be programmed to work with your car and require cutting machines that are specialized. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have a spare key in case you can access it in the situation of a lockout.

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

Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods for making an alternative car key, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't high-quality. A poorly cut car key near me key could harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove on both sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way and still function. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective at stopping theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive because they're more complex 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 have a vast selection of transponder keys, which means you're sure to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if needed, and for a fraction of the cost much as you would pay at dealers.