How to Get a Car Key Cut

It's expensive to replace your car keys, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.

Having your car key cut at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This could be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to access your vehicle or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more convenient.

Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of keys using a specific machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.

Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can have a copy made by trained workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks use keys that are blank and exactly like your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as home security or car keys.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in mobile key cutting service duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.

Modern electronic keys, such as those used to control mobile car key cutting lock systems, or security access points, come with additional components that must be programmed to function properly. These additional components like the transponder chip in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, which requires specific equipment.

If you require a spare, key cutting is a quick and easy method of getting one. However, you should always consult a professional. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a staff of professionals who have received a rigorous education to deal with various locks and locking systems. You should also seek out a locksmith who offers emergency key cutting services. They will be able provide assistance in case of an emergency lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys, which can prevent damage to the original keys and decrease the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another safe place if a person has locked themselves outside.

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

Another common method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade, and the grooves and notches are gone from the other end. This makes the key easier to insert into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using a punch machine, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. A device then presses a blade down onto the key cutting each notch until the required depth. These machines can be electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.

A newer form of key cutting technique is also being used in some places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to create the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that look like a serrated blade, which provides more protection against bump keys and other types of tryout keys.

A key cutting price cutting service can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs that have an embedded chip that connects to the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.

Key Cutting Equipment

When a person gets their keys cut, it is important to find the right key cutting machine. There are many different types, but some factors that influence a person's decision include the kind of key they require as well as whether or not they prefer to use an automatic or electric machine and how much money they want to spend. The type of machine they select will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.

Most key cutting machines trace the contour of a key in order to create an entirely new key. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual however, it could also be done with a code or laser machine. These machines will typically need codes that tell the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are a variety of machines that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These tools can be costly however they also make it possible to offer an array of services to customers.

A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing individual tools, and can be an excellent investment for someone looking to start a business cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. It also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to show the status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with optional clamps to handle keys for household use and 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 is programmed to your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can access it in the case of a lockout.

It's important to know the difference between duplication and cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. While they might appear similar, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing which service you require can help you save money and time in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, requires an instrument for cutting keys to trace original contours onto a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods for making a replacement car key however it could be risky when the key isn't correctly constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can make an optical groove on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way, and still function. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in preventing theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a variety of transponder keys, so you can be sure that you get the correct one for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car if necessary, at only a fraction of the price that you would spend at an auto dealer.