How to Get a Car Key Cut

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

You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. However, not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication or programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This could be a huge inconvenience since you're unable to access your vehicle or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks completely. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient process.

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

Many hardware stores and big box stores have the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks use keys that are blank and identical to your current key. They can also cut copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like keys for car keys or home security.

The most recent technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services operate by significantly reducing the time and cost involved.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. These other components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes, communicate with the system they're designed to be part of, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate properly.

When you need a spare key, cutting is a fast and simple method to obtain one. However you should always seek advice from an expert. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. You should also look for a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able to assist you in the event of an emergency lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys which can prevent damage to original keys and reduce overall wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used in the event that one is locked out of their car, home or any other safe place since it will allow the person to gain entry without requiring the services of a locksmith.

To make a duplicate key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an impression. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make a copy of the original that is identical to its size and shape.

Another method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are gone from the other end. This allows the key to fit into locks. A key can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device forces a blade onto the key and then cuts each notch at the required depth. The machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.

Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys, which is employed in specific places. Instead of grinding the keys to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the side of the key. The keys resemble an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types.

A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. The service is not able to create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.

Key Cutting Equipment

When a person gets their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a myriad of models however, some elements that influence a person's choice are the type of key they need and whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.

Most key cutting machines trace the contour of a key to create an entirely new key. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine. It can also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the notch on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from a database.

There are a variety of machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. These are costly, however they can provide a wider variety of services.

Another alternative is to buy a set that contains the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and are a great option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be simple to use. The removable 10-inch touchscreen allows users to access various keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys including dimples. It also comes with clamps that can be used to handle the flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well being cruciform keys.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They have transponder chips that must be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can utilize it in the case of a lockout.

It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car key cutting keys cut. While they might appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying an existing key. Knowing the type of service you require will save you time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of creating a spare car key, and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of creating an alternative car key, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop functioning.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create laser grooves on both flat sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way while still functioning. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective at protecting against theft than normal keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will select the correct key blank for your year, make and model, and then use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key fob cut near me. We have a variety of transponder key cutting near me keys, 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 less than the price that you would pay at a dealership.