Noelia Hughes

How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace the keys to your car, especially when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective way to avoid expensive replacements.

Cutting your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at some point, and when this occurs, it could be an absolute hiccup in your day, making it impossible to gain access to your car or home. Most people prefer having extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more efficient.

Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating an original key on an uncut key, by using a special machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores offer the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks make use of an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They also can make copies of keys with more complicated designs, like home security or car keys.

In contrast to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank piece of. It is called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, which requires specific equipment.

Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional assistance when you require it. There are many locksmiths that are not to be the same, so you must choose a reputable firm with a committed team of skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training to handle various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they can help in the event of an accidental lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys, which can protect original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to your home, car, or other safe place if a person is locked out.

To make a duplicate key, a professional could choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create a replica of the original that is identical to its size and shape.

Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches are gone at the other end. This allows the key to fit into locks. Keys can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine applies an edge onto the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. These machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.

Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys, which is employed in specific locations. Instead of grinding keys down to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the side of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to a serrated blade, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other types of test keys.

Key cutting services can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However the service cannot create replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is usually reserved for dealerships or automobile manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

If someone needs their keys cut, it's crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision are the size and type of the key, whether they want an automatic or electric machine, and how much they want spend. The machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.

Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut a new car key cut one. This can be done manually or using a manual machine. It could also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines will typically need codes that tell the machine where to put the notches 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 can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks at the same time. They can be expensive however they also make it possible to offer a wider range of services to customers.

Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine and tools required to operate it. These kits are often less expensive than buying individual tools separately and are an excellent investment for someone planning to launch a business cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys, and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting the keys. Ilco states that the machine has an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its state. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys that include dimple keys. It can be equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.

Key Cutting cost to get a key cut

Modern keys for cars are more than simply a piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. It is a good idea to purchase a spare car key cut key, so you'll have something to turn to in the event that you're in a bind.

If you decide to have your car key cut it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem similar, key cutting is creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need will save you time and money in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making an extra car key and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods for making an alternative car key, but it can be risky when the key isn't correctly constructed or the key blank isn't of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause the key to stop functioning.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special 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 in either direction. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in stopping 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.

AutoZone's associates will use an instrument that can duplicate your car key using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a broad selection of transponder keys, so you're sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if you require it, and for a fraction of the cost much as you would pay at the dealer.