How to Get a Car Key Cut

It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly if it is the only one you have. The possession of duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses keys at some time, and when this occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to gain access to your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than replacing their locks. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more convenient.

Key cutting is a process that involves replicating 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 in both shape and function.

A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can get a copy created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks use an uncut key that is the same as your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like keys for car keys or home security.

In contrast to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings on a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.

Modern electronic keys that control cheap car key cutting near me lock systems, or security access points have additional components which must be programmed properly. These other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require special equipment to duplicate correctly.

If you require a spare, key cutting is a quick and easy way to get one. However you should always seek advice from an expert. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should look for a reputable company with a team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with different locks and locking mechanisms. You should also seek out locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able to assist you in the event of an accident lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys, which will prevent damage to the original keys and decrease overall wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to your home, car, or other safe location if someone has locked themselves outside.

To create a duplicate key, a professional could either use the tracing 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 the clear tape to leave an imprint. This impression can be used by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original identical to its size and shape.

Another option is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the original key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches are removed at the other end. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The machine forces an edge onto the key and then cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are 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 also being utilized in a few locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to create the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to an asymmetrical blade, which provides more protection against bump getting keys cut and other types of test keys.

A auto key cutting machine cutting service may also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs that have an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However it cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming, which is often reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

When a person gets their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of types, but some factors that could influence a person's decision include the type of key they require and whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.

The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of one key to cut another one. This can be done manually or using a manual machine however, it could also be done using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines typically require a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from the database.

There are also a range of machines available that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They can help locksmiths save time by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. They are expensive however, they offer a wider variety of services.

Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine as well as the tools required to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and are a great option for those looking to start a business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access a variety of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has a built-in accessory tray and LED lights that indicate the status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys, including dimples. It can also be fitted with optional clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys as well being Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car key cutting cost keys are more than just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that require programming to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. 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 go to in case you find yourself in a pinch.

It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, key cutting is creating a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you require can save you time and money in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating a spare car key, and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of creating an alternative car key however it could be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut key can damage the lock and stop the key from working.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These are commonly called sidewinder keys and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys so you're sure to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car in case you need to, at only a fraction of the price that you would spend at a dealership.