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. A backup key is the best way to avoid expensive replacements.



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

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some time. This could be a major inconvenience, because you're unable get into your vehicle or go to your home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This process is faster and cheaper as well as more efficient.

Key cutting is a method that involves duplicating an original key onto an uncut key, by using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original one in terms of design and function and makes it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your home using an imitation.

A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate made by trained workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks use keys that are blank and identical to your current key. They also can make 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 for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank piece of. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.

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

When you need a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick way to get one. However, you should always consult a professional. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they will be able to assist in the event of an accidental lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a house, car, or other safe place if a person is locked out.

A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it is black and pressing it against the sticky side the piece of clear tape. https://blogfreely.net/spadebumper60/15-shocking-facts-about-car-key-cutting-and-programming creates an imprint. A key cutter can then use this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is identical in dimensions and shape to the original.

Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches disappear from the other end. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. The machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.

Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys, which is employed in certain 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 look like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types.

A key cutting service may create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service cannot create replacements 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's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, and how much they'd like to spend. The machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.

Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create an entirely new key. This can be done manually or with a manual machine however, it could also be done with the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the notch on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from a database.

There are a few machines that cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They can reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. They can be expensive however they also allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.

A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and could be a good option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen allows users to access many keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It can also be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well for cruciform keys.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They contain transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require cutting machines that are specialized. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you have something to turn to in the event that you find yourself in a pinch.

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

Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making a spare car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than others, but could be risky if the key isn't made correctly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause the key to stop functioning.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specifically designed. These machines can cut a laser groove on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing either way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective at protecting against theft than regular keys. These keys are also more expensive because 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 a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a variety of transponder key options so you're sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can also help you connect it to your car should you require it, for less than the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.