How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. Having duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.

The cutting of your car's key at an automotive store like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. Not all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this happens, it can be a real hiccup in your day, making it impossible to access your home or car. Most people prefer to have additional keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.

Key cutting is the process of creating a key using a special 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 have a key cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate created by skilled workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks are equipped with an uncut key that is the same as your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like home security or car keys.

In contrast to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing time and costs.

Modern electronic keys, such as keys used to control car lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that must be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring specialised equipment.

If you require a spare, key cutting is a quick and easy method of getting one. However, you should always consult an expert. There are many locksmiths that are not equally, so look for a reputable company with a team of highly skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to find a locksmith that offers emergency services as they'll be able to assist in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used when someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other secure location since it will allow them to gain entry without the need for a locksmith.

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

Another common method is to make use of a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine forces a blade on the key and then cuts each notch at the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.

Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is utilized in certain places. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types.

Key cutting services can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that connects to the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is important to choose the right key-cutting machine when you need your keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision are the size and style of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, and how much they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality and precision of their work.

The majority of key cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create an entirely new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine, but it can also be done using a laser or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to put the notch on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from a database.

There are a few tools that cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks at the same time. They are expensive however, they offer a wider variety of services.

Another alternative is to buy a set that contains the cutting machine and the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and can be a good investment for anyone who wishes to venture into the business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access a variety of keys, and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that show its current status. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys including dimples. It is equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event they get lost or stolen. It is a good idea to purchase a spare key, so you have something to go to if you find yourself stuck.

When you choose to have your car key cut, it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of creating a spare car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is less expensive than others, but is risky if the key is not made properly or the blank is of poor quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent the cheap key cutting from working.

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

AutoZone's associates use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We offer a variety of transponder keys, so you can be sure to get the right one for your vehicle. We can even assist you to programme it to your car if necessary, at only a fraction of the price that you would pay at the dealership.