How to Get a Car Key Cut

It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially in the case of only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.

You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. But not all hardware stores or Locksmith Key cutting establishments offer key duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses keys at some moment, and when that happens, it can be an extremely stressful day, making it impossible to access your online car key cutting or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This process is faster, cheaper, and more practical.

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

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can have a copy made by trained workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks usually use keys with the same design as your existing key, however, they also can make copies of more intricate keys such as keys for your car or home security.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing costs and time.

Modern electronic keys, such as those used to control the security of car locks or access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components, such as a transponder chip in vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require specialized equipment to duplicate properly.

Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek professional help when you need one. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should select a reputable company with a staff of professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able to assist you in the event of an accident lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to your home, car, or other safe place if a person is locked out.

To make a duplicate key, a professional may choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the edge of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This creates an imprint. This impression can be utilized by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original identical to its size and shape.

Another option is to employ a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. A key can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device then pushes an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This means that there is no need for a specialist.

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

A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. The service is not able to create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is important to choose the correct key cutting services-cutting machine for someone needs their keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision are the size and type of the key, whether they prefer an automatic or electric machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.

Most key cutting machines trace the outline of an existing key to create an entirely new key. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual but it can also be done using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to put the notch on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.

There are a few machines that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks at the same time. These tools can be costly, but they can also enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically less expensive than buying individual tools and can be an excellent investment for those planning to launch a business cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access various keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its current status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys including dimples. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well for Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

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

It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut in my area cut. Though they might seem similar, key cutting is making a 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 term.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating a spare car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is cheaper than other options, but it is risky if the key is not made properly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specialized. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective at stopping theft than regular keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.

At AutoZone the associate will choose the right key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a variety of transponder keys, so you're sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can also help you connect it to your car in case you need to, at only a fraction of the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.