10 Tips For Getting The Most Value From Car Key Cut

How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective way to avoid expensive replacements.

Cutting your car keys at an automotive store like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this occurs, it could be an absolute hiccup in your day, causing you to be unable to access your car or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This is a quicker and less expensive procedure.

Key cutting is a method that involves replicating an original key onto the blank key by using a special 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 the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks are equipped with an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They also can make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, such as car keys or home security keys.

The latest technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing the cost to get a key cut and time.

Modern electronic keys, like those used to control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed to function correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip that is found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.

If you require an extra key, cutting it is a fast and simple method to obtain one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able help you out in the event of an accident lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a home, car, or other safe location if someone is locked out.

Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. 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 the clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be used by a key cutter to make a copy of the original that is identical to its size and shape.

Another common method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the original key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed at the other end. This makes the key easier to fit into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with a punch machine, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. A device then forces a blade to the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. These machines are either manual or electric, and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.

Laser cutting is a newer technique for cutting keys, which is employed in specific areas. Instead of grinding down the keys to create the right dimensions, a laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other kinds of keys.

Key cutting services can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, that have an embedded chip that communicates with the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. However, the service cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming, which is often reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

When a person gets their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of types, but some factors that could influence a person's choice are the type of key car cutting they require as well as whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric machine and how much they are willing to spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work and how precise it is.

Most key cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create an entirely new key. 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 that tells them where to place the key's notch. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.

There are a variety of machines that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These tools can be costly, but they can also allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.

Another option is to purchase a kit that includes both the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and could 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 that has been designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access a variety of keys, and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that indicate its status. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys including dimples. It can also be fitted with clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as being cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to invest in a spare key, so you have something to turn to in case you're in a pinch.

It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and key cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, key cutting is creating a brand new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making an extra car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of creating a replacement car key however, it can be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't high-quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop 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 flat sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing in any way and still function. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in stopping theft than regular keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key blank for your year, make and model, and then use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys so you'll be able to find the correct one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car, if required and at a fraction as the cost you would pay at the dealer.