How to Get a Car Key Cut

It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly in the case of only one you have. A backup key is the best way to avoid expensive replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some time. This can be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to get into your car or home. Most people prefer to have extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is faster and less expensive, as well as more efficient.

Key cutting is a technique that involves copying the original key onto the blank key with a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores offer an area for cutting keys where you can have a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks typically use a key blank that has the identical design as your current key, but they also can make copies of more elaborate keys like keys for home or car security.

Unlike 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 called key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by significantly reducing the time and cost.

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

If you require a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method to obtain one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith key cutting. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. You should also seek out locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able to provide assistance in case of a lockout accident.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting is a method of making of spare keys, which can protect the original keys and decrease the overall wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used if someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or any other safe place since it will allow the person to gain entry without the need for locksmith.

A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate keys. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. A key cutter will use this imprint to cut it away creating a copy that is identical in dimensions and shape to the original.

Another common method is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches are gone at the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key cutting business into locks. A key can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric, and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.

A newer form of key cutting technique is being used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to create the right dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that look like the serrated blades that provides greater protection against bump keys and other kinds of test keys.

Key cutting services can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However it isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is often reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

When a person gets their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many different types, but some factors that can affect a person's choice include the type of key they require and whether or not they want to use an automated or electric machine, and how much they are willing to spend. The machine they choose will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.

Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine however, it could also be done with a laser or code. 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 a few tools which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They can save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These are costly, but can offer a greater variety of services.

Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and can be a good investment for someone who wants to start a business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad range of keys, and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. The machine also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to show the status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It can also be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as as Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that must be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can utilize it in the event of an emergency lockout.

If you decide to have your car keys cut, it's crucial to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they might appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require can save you time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare car Key cutting keys for cars, involves using a key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods for making an alternative car key however, it can be risky when the key isn't correctly made or the key blank isn't high-quality. Insufficiently-cut keys cutting near me can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop functioning.

laser car key cutting near me key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can make a laser groove on both flat sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder in either way and still function. They are commonly called sidewinder keys and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and harder to find at hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key by using the right blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even assist you to connect it to your car if necessary, at a fraction of the cost that you would spend at an auto dealer.