Why Nobody Cares About Car Key Cut

How to Get a Car Key Cut

It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best method to avoid costly replacements.

Cutting your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses keys at some moment, and when that happens, it can be a real hiccup in your day, making it impossible to get into your car or home. Most people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more convenient.

Key cutting is a process that involves copying an original key onto a blank key, with a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in form and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores offer a key-cutting station where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained worker. The kiosks typically make use of a key blank that has the same design as your existing key, however, they can also cut copies of more complicated keys like keys for home or car security.

The latest technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is known as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services work 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 that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip found in car keys and the embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, which requires specific equipment.

Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional assistance when you require one. Not all locksmiths are created equally, so choose a reputable firm with a dedicated team of experts who have been through rigorous training to handle various locking mechanisms and locks. You should also look for locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of an accident lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys, which can prevent damage to original keys and reduce overall wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another secure location if someone is locked out.

A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. With 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 a piece clear tape to leave an imprint. A key cutter can then utilize this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.

Another method is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. A device then presses a blade to the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with various keys. This eliminates the requirement for an expert.

A newer kind of key cutting technique is being used in some places, which is known as laser car key cutting near me cutting. Instead of grinding down keys to get the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to a serrated blade that provides greater protection against bump keys and other types of keys for tryouts.

A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or locks. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

If someone needs their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many different types, but some factors that could affect a person's choice include the type of key they need, whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric device, and the much they are willing to spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work and how precise it is.

The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the shape of one key to cut a new one. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual, but it can be accomplished using a laser or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the key's notch. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from the database.

There are a variety of machines that are able to cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These tools can be costly however they also enable locksmiths to provide more services to customers.

Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately, and can be an excellent investment for anyone who wants to start a business cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access various keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that show its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys that include dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with clamps for handling flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car key blade cutting keys are much more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which need to be programmed to work with your vehicle and require specialized cutting machinery. They are more expensive to replace in the event they get lost or stolen. It is a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you'll have something to turn to if you find yourself in a pinch.

It is important to understand the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. While they might appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making a spare car key, and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods for making an alternative car key however, it can be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. A poorly cut key could harm the lock and prevent your key from working.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can make a laser groove on both flat sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective at stopping theft than regular keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone, an associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a variety of transponder key options so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if required, and at a fraction of price as you would at dealers.