How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, especially when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.

The cutting of your car's key at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication or programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses keys at some moment, and when that 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 extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is faster, cheaper, and more convenient.

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

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can obtain a duplicate created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks are equipped with an uncut key that is the same as your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complicated designs, like keys for car keys or home security.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. This is referred to as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services function by significantly reducing the time and cost to get car key cut involved.

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

If you require a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method to obtain one. However, you should always consult an expert. Not all locksmiths are to be the same, so you must seek out a reputable business with a committed team of experts who have completed rigorous training in dealing with different locking mechanisms and locks. You should also seek out locksmiths who provide emergency key cutting services. They will be able assist you in the event of a lockout accident.

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 a house or vehicle, or another secure location if someone has locked themselves out.

To duplicate a key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an imprint. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut it away, making a copy that is the same shape and size to the original.

A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface on one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the required depth. These machines can be manual or electric, and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.

Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys that is used in certain locations. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the side of the key. The result is keys that look like an asymmetrical blade, which provides more protection against bump keys and other kinds of keys for tryouts.

24 hour key cutting cutting services can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that connects to the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. The service is not able to make replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is crucial to select the correct key-cutting machine for a person needs their keys cut. There are many different types, but some factors that can influence a person's decision include the kind of key they require, whether or not they prefer to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The tool they select will also influence the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.

The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of a key to create a new key. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It could also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines will typically require a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.

There are several machines which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. These machines are expensive, however they can provide a wider variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine and the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and could be a good option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a broad variety of keys and offers step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting the keys. The machine also has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys including dimples. It can be equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that must be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have a spare key so that you can utilize it in the case of an emergency lockout.

It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. Although they may appear identical, duplication is the act of copying a key. Knowing which service you require will save you money and time in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making a spare car key, and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank mobile key cutting service. This method is less expensive than other options, but it could be risky if the key isn't created properly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop your key from functioning.

laser car key cutting service near me key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specialized. These machines can create laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in either direction. These are often referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.

At AutoZone the associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a vast selection of transponder keys, which means you're sure to get the right one for your car. We can even assist you to program it to your vehicle locksmith if necessary, at less than the price that you would spend at an auto dealer.