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How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace the keys to your car keys cut and programmed, especially when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.

Having your car key cut at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. Not all hardware or locksmith shops provide key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at some time, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to get into your home or car. Most people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This process is quicker and less expensive, as well as more efficient.

Key cutting is a method that involves replicating an original key onto the blank key with a specially-designed 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 station where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks typically use keys that have the identical design as your current key, but they can also make copies of more intricate keys like car or home security keys.

The most recent technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services operate by significantly reducing the time and cost.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These other components, such as the transponder chip found in car 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 properly.

When you need a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However, you should always consult an expert. There are many locksmiths that are not equally, so choose a reputable firm with a team of highly skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to handle different locks and locking mechanisms. It's also important to find locksmiths that offer emergency services, as they will be able to provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys which can prevent damage to the original keys and decrease the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a home or car, or any other safe location if someone is locked out.

To create a duplicate key, a professional can choose between the tracing 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 a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be utilized by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.

Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The device then pushes a blade down onto the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. These machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.

Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys that is utilized in certain areas. Instead of grinding the keys to create the correct dimensions, a laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that resemble a serrated blade, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other types of tryout keys.

A key cutting service may also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.

Key Cutting Equipment

If someone needs their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of types, but some factors that affect a person's choice include the type of key they need, whether or not they wish to use an automated or electric machine and how much they are willing to spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.

Most 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 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 a database.

There are a few tools which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks simultaneously. They can be expensive however they also allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.

Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than buying the tools individually and can be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide variety of keys and offers step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting them. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that show its state. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It is also equipped with clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as as cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key so that you can use it in the case of a lockout.

It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires the key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is more affordable than other methods, but it is risky if the key isn't created properly or the key is not of good quality. Insufficiently-cut key can harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can cut laser grooves on both sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing either way while still functioning. These are commonly called sidewinder keys, and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive because they're more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone the associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, model and model, and then utilize a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can help you program the van key cutting to your car if needed, and at a fraction as price as you would at dealers.