Why Nobody Cares About Car Key Cut

How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace your car keys, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective method to avoid costly replacements.

The cutting of your car's key at an auto key cutting machine shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. But not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer cheap key cutting duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some point. This can be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient process.

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

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

Unlike traditional key cutting, which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components which must be programmed to work correctly. These additional components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in a few home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require special equipment to duplicate correctly.

When you need a spare car key cut key, cutting is a fast and simple method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a team of highly skilled professionals who have completed rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking mechanisms. You should also seek out locksmiths who provide emergency services. They can help you out in the event of a lockout accident.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys, which can prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and tear. A spare key can also be used in the event that one is locked out of their car key cutting service, home or any other safe place because it allows them to gain access without the need for a locksmith.

To duplicate a key, a professional could employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create a copy of the original identical in size and shape.

A pattern grinder is a different common method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes the key easier to fit into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The device forces a blade onto the key and then cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines can be manual or electric, and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.

A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to get the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to an asymmetrical blade that provides greater protection against bump keys and other kinds of keys for tryouts.

A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, that have an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However the service cannot create replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming usually reserved for dealerships or automobile manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is essential to select the correct key-cutting machine for you need your keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automated machine, and how much they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.

The majority of key cutting machines trace the profile of a key to create the new key. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual, but it can also be done with the use of a laser machine or code. These machines will typically need an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.

There are also a range of machines available that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These machines can be expensive however they can make it possible to offer an array of services to customers.

Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately, and can be an excellent investment for someone who wants to start a business cutting keys.

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

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they get stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can use it in the case of an emergency lockout.

When you choose to have your car key cut, it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying a nearest key cutting. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of creating a spare car key Cutting car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods for making keys for replacement, but it can be risky when the key isn't correctly made or the key blank isn't of high-quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way, and still function. These are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will use an instrument that can duplicate your car keys using the appropriate blank for your car's year and make. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if needed, and at a fraction of the cost you would pay at a dealer.