20 Myths About Car Key Cut: Busted

How to Get a Car Key Cut

It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially when it's the only one you have. A backup key is the best defense against costly replacements.

You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. Not all hardware or locksmith stores offer key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at some point, and when this occurs, it can cause a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to gain access to your home or car. The majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient procedure.

Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating an original key on a blank key, with a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the key matches the original both in shape and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can get a copy created by skilled workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks typically use keys that have the identical design as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more complicated keys such as keys for your car or home security.

The latest technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. This is known as key-by-photo, and is revolutionizing the process of key duplication by reducing costs and time.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points have additional components which must be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components, like a transponder chip in vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes, communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require special equipment to duplicate properly.

If you require a spare key, cutting is a simple and quick way to get one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they will be able to help in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used if one is locked out of their home, car or any other safe place since it will allow them to gain entry without the need for a locksmith.

To duplicate a key, a professional may either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side a piece clear tape. This leaves an impression. A key cutter will use this imprint to cut it away creating a copy that is identical in shape and size to the original.

A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device then pushes a blade down onto the key cutting each notch until the required depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.

Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys, which is employed in specific places. Instead of grinding the keys to the right dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other kinds of keys.

Key cutting services are also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or locks. The service can't create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.

Key Cutting Equipment

If someone needs their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting car key machine. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. The factors that can affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, whether they prefer an automatic or electric machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.

Most key cutting machines trace the contour of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It could also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to put the notch on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from the database.

There are also a number of machines that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks at the same time. They are expensive but can offer a greater variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools and can be an excellent investment for someone looking to start an operation that cuts 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 variety of keys and offers step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. It also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to indicate its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and car keys cut cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well being Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern keys for cars are more than simply a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your vehicle, and they require specialized cutting machinery. They are more costly to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. It is a good idea to invest in an extra key, so you have something to go to in the event that you find yourself stuck.

It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need will save you money and time in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, involves using a key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods for making a replacement car key, car keys cut but it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop functioning.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can make an optical groove on both flat sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way while still functioning. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will use an instrument that can duplicate your car key using the correct 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 help you program the key to your car, if required and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at dealers.