How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, especially if you lose your only one. A backup key is the best defense against costly replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to access your home or car. Most people prefer to have additional keys made rather than changing their locks. This is faster and less expensive, as well as more practical.

Key cutting is a technique that involves replicating an original key on the blank key by using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key matches the original both in form and function.

Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can get a copy created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks usually use keys with the same design as your existing key, but they can also cut copies of more elaborate keys such as keys for home or car security.

Unlike traditional key cutting, which uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.

Modern electronic keys, like those used to control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that need to be programmed to function properly. These additional 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 be part of and require special equipment to duplicate properly.

If you require a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, as they will be able to assist in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys, which can protect original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a house, car, or other safe place if a person has locked themselves out.

A professional can utilize either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be used by a key cutter to make 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 until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches are gone on the other side. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. Keys can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device then pushes an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the required depth. These machines are manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the need for an expert.

A newer type of key cutting technique is also being used in some places, which is known as laser cut car keys near me cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The keys appear like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bump keys and other types.

A key cutting service may create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that connects to the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. However, the service cannot make replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

When a person gets their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a myriad of models and some of the factors that influence a person's choice are the kind of key they require and whether or not they want to use an automated or electric machine, and how much they are willing to spend. The type of machine they select will also influence the quality and precision of their work.

Most key cutting machines trace the profile of an existing key to create a new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine however, it could also be done with a code or laser machine. These machines will typically require a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from a database.

There are also a number of machines that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They can save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. They are expensive however they can provide a wider range of services.

Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to get into the business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting them. The machine also has an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to indicate its status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys, including dimples. It is equipped with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep a spare key so that you can utilize it in the case of a lockout.

When you choose to have your car keys cut, it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you require can save you time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making a spare car key, and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is more affordable than other methods, but it can be risky when the key is not made correctly or the blank is of poor quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop working.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way while still functioning. They are commonly called sidewinder key cutting keys and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys cutting near me. They are also more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, make, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a variety of transponder key options which means you're certain to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car, if required, and at a fraction of the cost you would pay at dealers.