How to Get a Car Key Cut

It's expensive to replace your car keys, particularly if it is the only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best way to avoid expensive replacements.

You can save money by having your car keys cut at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This could be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to get into your vehicle or home. Most people prefer to have additional keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a quicker and less expensive procedure.

Key cutting is a method that involves duplicating an original key onto an uncut key, with a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in form and function.

A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can get a copy made by trained employees within a matter of minutes. These kiosks typically use keys that have the identical design as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more elaborate keys like car or home security keys.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings onto a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and is revolutionizing the process of key duplication by reducing time and costs.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components which must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, which requires special equipment.

Key cutting is a great way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should look for a reputable company with a committed team of highly skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services as they will be able to provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and decreases wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used when someone is locked out of their home, car or any other secure location because it allows the person to gain entry without the need for a locksmith.

To make a duplicate key, a professional can either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This creates an imprint. A key cutter will use this imprint to cut around, making a copy that is the same dimensions and shape to the original.

A pattern grinder is another 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 fit into locks. Keys can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The device forces a blade on the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. These machines can be electric or manual and can be programmed for different keys, eliminating the requirement for g28Carkeys a specialist to be present.

Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys, which is employed in specific places. Instead of grinding the keys down to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. The keys resemble 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 lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. The service is not able to create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.

Key Cutting Equipment

If someone needs their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of types however, some elements that could influence a person's choice are the kind of key they require as well as whether or not they want to use an automated or electric machine, and how much money they want to spend. The machine they select will also influence the quality and precision of their work.

The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of one key to cut another one. This can be done manually or with a manual machine. It could also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to put the notch on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are several machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks at the same time. These tools can be costly however they can 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 an alternative option. These kits are typically cheaper than buying individual tools separately and can be a good option for those looking to start a business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen allows users to access various keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that show its current status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys that include dimples. It is also equipped with clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well being cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are lost or taken. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in a spare key, so you have something to turn to in case you find yourself stuck.

It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. Though they might seem similar, key cutting is creating a brand new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money over the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, involves using the key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making an alternative car key, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly constructed or the key blank isn't high-quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop functioning.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can create an optical groove on both sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder in either way, and still function. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in preventing theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates use an instrument that can duplicate your car key by using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you are sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car should you require it, for a fraction of the cost that you would pay at an auto dealer.