The History Of Car Key Cut

How to Get a Car Key Cut

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

Cutting your car keys at an auto key cutting machine 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 keys at some point, and when this happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to access your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than replacing their locks. This process is faster and less expensive, as well as more efficient.

Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original in both shape and function and makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property using a fake.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have an area for cutting keys where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks use a blank key that is exactly like your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as car keys or home security keys.

The most advanced technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools to accurately duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is referred to as key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services work by significantly reducing the time and cost.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components which must be programmed properly. These additional components such as the transponder chip found in car keys and the embedded microchip found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, which requires specific equipment.

If you require an extra key, cutting it is a fast and simple method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a staff of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, as they'll be able to provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.

key fob cut near me Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to make spare key cutting keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a house or vehicle, or another safe place if a person has locked themselves out.

To make a duplicate key, a professional could either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it turns black, and then pressing it against the sticky side an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an imprint. A key cutter can then use this imprint to cut around the original key, creating a copy which is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.

Another method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches are gone from the other end. This allows the key to insert into locks. Keys can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine applies a blade onto the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. These machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the need for an expert to be present.

A newer kind of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys down to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the side of the key. The result is keys that resemble the serrated blades that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other types of tryout keys.

Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. The service is not able to create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is essential to select the right key-cutting machine when you need your keys cut. There are many different types however, some elements that can influence a person's choice are the kind of key they require, whether or not they want to use an automated or electric machine, and how much money they want to spend. The machine they choose will also influence the quality and precision of their work.

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

There are a few machines which can cut new car key near me both cylinder and mortice locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They save a locksmith time by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. They are expensive but can offer a greater variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are usually cheaper than buying the tools individually and could be a good option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a broad variety of keys and offers step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting the keys. It also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to indicate status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys, including dimples. It is able to be fitted with optional clamps to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car keys are much more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can use it in the event of a lockout.

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

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making an extra car key and it involves using the key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making an alternative car key however, it can be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't high-quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop functioning.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specifically designed. These machines can cut an optical groove on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way while still functioning. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective at stopping theft than standard 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 automotive key cutting near me blank for your year, model, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old 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 even assist you to programme it to your car key cutting and programming near me in case you need to, at less than the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.