20 Myths About Car Key Cut: Dispelled

How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace your car keys, especially if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.

The cutting of your car's key at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some time. This could be a major hassle since you're unable to get into your car or home. The majority of people prefer having spare key cutting keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient procedure.

Key cutting is the process of creating a key using a special machine. This is done to make sure that the key matches the original both in form and function.

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

The most advanced technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points have additional components that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes, communicate with the system they're designed to fit into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate properly.

Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. There are many locksmiths that are not equally, so look for a reputable company with a dedicated team of experts who have completed rigorous training to handle different locks and locking mechanisms. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services as they'll be able to help in the event of an accidental lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys, which can prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used if someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other secure location since it will allow them to gain entry without the assistance of a locksmith.

Professionals can employ either the punching or tracing method to duplicate a key. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it turns black, and then pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This leaves an imprint. This impression can be used by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original that is identical in size and shape.

Another method is to use a pattern grinder, that takes the original key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches are gone from the other end. This allows you to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The device then pushes a blade to the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the requirement for a specialist to be present.

A newer form of key cutting technique is also being utilized in certain locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to get the proper dimensions, a laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other kinds of keys.

A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or lock. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.

Key Cutting Equipment

If someone needs their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a myriad of mobile key cutting near me cutting machines. Some factors that may affect a person's choice include the size and style of the key, whether they want an electric or automatic machine, and how much they want spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.

The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of a key in order to create a new key. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual but it can be accomplished using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the notch on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.

There are also a range of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks at the same time. These tools can be costly, but they can also allow you to offer an array of services to customers.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are usually less expensive than buying individual tools separately and are an excellent investment for someone looking to start an enterprise that cuts keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is 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 them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to indicate status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It can also be fitted with optional clamps for handling getting keys cut for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern keys for cars are more just a piece made of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your car, and they require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can use it in the situation of a lockout.

It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you require will save you money and time in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of creating an extra car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is more affordable than other options, but it is risky if the key isn't created properly or the blank is of poor quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent the key from working.

Laser key cutting (440Hz.my) is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can cut a laser groove on both flat 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 keys, and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys, which means you can be sure to get the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if you require it, and for a fraction of the cost much as you would pay at a dealer.