How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly in the event that you lose only one. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some time. This could be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer to have extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is faster and cheaper as well as more practical.

Key cutting is the process of creating keys using a specific machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can have a copy created by skilled workers in just a few minutes. The kiosks typically make use of keys that have the same style as your current key, but they can also make copies of more elaborate keys such as keys for home or car security.

The most recent technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services operate by significantly reducing the time and expense involved.

Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed in order to function properly. These other 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 fit into and require special equipment to duplicate properly.

If you require a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However, you should always consult a professional. Not all locksmiths are created to be the same, so you must look for a reputable company with a dedicated team of experts who have completed rigorous training to handle various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they can assist in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys, which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used when someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or any other secure location as it can allow them to gain access without requiring the services of locksmith.

To create a duplicate key, a professional could employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. Key cutters can make use of this imprint to cut around, making a copy that is identical in size and shape to the original.

A pattern grinder is a different common method. It grinds the original key until it has a flat surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to fit into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with a punch machine, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. A device then presses a blade to the key cutting each notch until the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.

Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is used in a few places. Instead of grinding the keys to create the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that look like a serrated blade that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of tryout keys.

Key cutting services can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However it isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

If someone needs their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, whether they want an electric or automated machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work.

Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut a new one. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual but it can also be done with the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to inform them where to put the notch on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are a few tools that cut mortice and cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These tools can be costly, but they can also enable locksmiths to provide a wider range of services to customers.

A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing the tools individually and are a great option for those looking to start a business of cutting keys.

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

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that is programmed to your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are lost or taken. It's always recommended to keep an extra key in case you can access it in the situation of an emergency 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 identical, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making 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 others, but is risky if the key isn't made properly or the key is not of good quality. Insufficiently-cut key can harm the lock and prevent the key from working.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist van key cutting-cutting machine. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective at stopping theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complex and harder to find at hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you're sure 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 as much as you would pay at dealers.