The 10 Scariest Things About Car Key Cut

How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, especially when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, causing you to be unable to gain access to your home or car. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more efficient.

Key cutting is the process of duplicating keys using a specific machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function.

Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can get a copy created by skilled workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks usually use a key blank that has the same design as your existing key, however, they also can make copies of more elaborate keys such as keys for your car or home security.

The latest technology for nearest key cutting replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is called key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services work by drastically reducing the time and expense involved.

Modern electronic keys, like those 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, like the transponder key cutting near me chip found in car keys, or a microchip embedded in a few home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to fit into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate properly.

If you require an extra key, cutting it is a fast and simple method to obtain one. However, you should always consult an expert. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also essential to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they can assist in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

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

To duplicate a key, a professional can either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by key cutters to create a copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.

A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to fit into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines. A punch machine takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. A device then presses a blade to the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.

A newer form of key cutting technique is being used in some locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The keys appear like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other types.

A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. The service is not able to create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is usually reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is important to choose the right machine to cut keys when you need your keys cut. There are many types of key cutting machines. The factors that can affect a person's choice include the size and type of the key, whether they want an electric or automated machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work and how accurate it is.

The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done manually or using a manual machine but it can also be done using a laser or code. These machines will typically need an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from a database.

There are also a number of machines that are able to cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual Key cut service cutters are available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks at the same time. These tools can be costly however they also make it possible to offer a wider range of services to customers.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are often less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately, and can be an excellent investment for those planning to launch a business cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access various keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its current status. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys including dimples. It can also be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle flat household and Tibbe keys, as for Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

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

It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you need can save you money and time in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of creating an extra car key and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods for making a replacement car key, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly made or the key blank isn't of high-quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent the key from working.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specially designed. These machines can make laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder in either way, and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in stopping theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys since they are more complex and harder to find at hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, make, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a broad selection of transponder keys, so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if needed, and at a fraction of much as you would pay at a dealer.