How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially in the event that you lose only one. Having duplicate keys is the best defense against expensive replacements.

Having your car key cut at a car repair shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. But not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some point. This could be a major hassle because you're unable get into your vehicle or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks entirely. This process is quicker and less expensive, as well as more efficient.

Key cutting is the process of creating the key using a specially-designed machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in form and function which makes it impossible for someone else to access your home using an imitation.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can have a copy created by skilled workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks usually use a key blank that has the same style as your current key cutting business, however, they can also make copies of more complicated keys like keys for your car or home security.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes 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 revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by significantly reducing the time and expense involved.

Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed to function correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.

When you need an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy method of getting keys cut one. However you should always seek advice from an expert. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they'll be able to provide assistance in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys, which can prevent damage to original keys and reduce overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used in the event that one is locked out of their car, home or any other safe place as it can allow them to gain entry without requiring the services of locksmith.

To make a duplicate key, a professional could choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an imprint. A key cutting services cutter can then utilize this imprint to cut it away the original key, creating a copy which is identical in dimensions and shape to the original.

A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to fit into locks. Keys can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces a blade to the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This eliminates the need for a specialist.

Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys that is used in a few places. Instead of grinding the keys to create the correct dimensions the laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other kinds of keys.

A key cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when you need your keys cut. There are a variety of types however, some elements that can influence a person's decision include the type of key they need as well as whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric machine, and how much money they'd like to spend. The machine they choose will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.

Most key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create the new key. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual but it can also be done with a code or laser machine. These machines will typically need a code that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.

There are a variety of machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These machines can be expensive however they can allow you to offer more services to customers.

A kit that includes the machine and the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and are an excellent investment for someone looking to start a business cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that indicate its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys, including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car keys are more than simply a piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle and require specialized cutting machinery. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they get stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep a spare key so that you can access it in the event of a lockout.

It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and key cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money over the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making an extra car key and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating a replacement car key however, it can be risky when the key isn't correctly constructed or the key blank isn't high-quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop the key from working.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can create an optical groove on both flat sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way while still functioning. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective at preventing theft than normal keys. These keys are also more expensive because they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will select the correct key blank for your year, model, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys, so you'll be able that you get the correct one for your car. We can even assist you to program it to your vehicle if necessary, at less than the price that you would pay at an auto key cutting near me dealer.