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How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially if you lose your only one. The possession of duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.

You can save money by having your car keys cut at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication or programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some point. This can be a major inconvenience, since you're unable to access your car or home. Most people prefer having extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a quicker, cheaper and more convenient procedure.

Key cutting is a process that involves copying an original key on the blank key with a specially-designed machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key is in line with the original one in terms of design and function and makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property with an imitation.

Many hardware stores and big box stores provide 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 can also cut copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as home security or car keys.

The latest technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. It's called cheap key cutting-by-photo and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing costs and time.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points have additional components that must be programmed correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, requiring specific equipment.

If you require a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method to obtain one. However, you should always consult a professional. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services as they'll be able to help in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another 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 becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter will use this imprint to cut around creating a copy that is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.

Another option is to use 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 disappear from the other end. This allows the key to insert into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The machine forces an edge onto the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This reduces the need for an expert.

A newer form of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that resemble an asymmetrical blade, which provides more protection against bump keys and other kinds of tryout keys.

A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. However the service cannot create replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is essential to select the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of models and some of the factors that could influence a person's decision include the kind of key they require, whether or not they prefer to use an automatic or electric device, and the much they are willing to spend. The machine they choose will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.

Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of one key to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine, but it can be accomplished using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the notch on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.

There are a few tools that cut both cylinder and mortice 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 enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers.

Another option is to purchase a kit that includes both the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and can be a good investment for someone who wants to get into the business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen is removable and lets users access various keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It can also be fitted with clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys as well for Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that is programmed to your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It is a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you have something to turn to in case you find yourself stuck.

If you're considering having your car key cut it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, involves using the key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of creating 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 made of high-quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated 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 facing either way, and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective at preventing theft than normal keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key by using the right blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car should you require it, for less than the price that you would spend at the dealership.