How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. A backup key is the best defense against costly replacements.

Having your car key cut at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some time. This can be a huge inconvenience because you're unable get into your car or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This process is quicker and less expensive, as well as more convenient.

Key cutting is the process of duplicating keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in form and function, making it impossible for someone else to access your property with an imitation.

A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can have a copy made by trained employees in a matter of minutes. The kiosks typically make use of a key blank that has the identical design as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more intricate keys such as car or home security keys.

In contrast to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. This is called key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services function by drastically reducing the amount of time and expense involved.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components which must be programmed 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.

Key cutting can be the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find locksmiths that offer emergency services, as they will be able to provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys, which can prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used if someone is locked out of their home, car or other secure area as it can allow the person to gain entry without requiring the services of locksmith.

To create a duplicate key, a professional can either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the tip of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This leaves an impression. Key cutters can utilize this imprint to cut away the original key, creating a copy which is the same size and shape to the original.

Another method is to make use of a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear from the other end. This allows the key to fit into locks. Keys can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The device then pushes an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. These machines are electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This means that there is no requirement for an expert.

getting a new car key cut newer form of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to the right dimensions the laser key cutting is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that resemble a serrated blade which offers more protection against bump keys and other kinds of keys for tryouts.

Key cutting services are also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car keys cut and programmed or lock. The service can't create replacement keys 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 a person needs their keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. Some factors that may affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, whether they want an electric or automatic machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The type of 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 using a machine that is manual but it can also be done with a laser or code. These machines typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from the database.

There are a few machines which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These are costly, however, they offer a wider variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and could be a good investment for someone who wants to start a business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights that indicate the status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys, including dimples. It also comes with clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys as well for cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern keys for cars are more than simply a piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your online car key cutting and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have a spare key so that you can use it in the case of a lockout.

It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, key cutting is creating a brand new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you require will help you save money and time in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating an extra car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of making an alternative car key however, it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well created or the key blank isn't high-quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop working.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist 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 are commonly called sidewinder keys and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys cut in my area because they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car key by using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options, which means you're certain to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can even assist you to programme it to your car should you require it, for less than the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.