25 Amazing Facts About Car Key Cut

How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace the keys to your car, especially in the case of only one you have. The possession of duplicate keys is the best protection against costly replacements.

You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some time. This can be a huge inconvenience because you're unable access your vehicle or home. The majority of people prefer to have extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a quicker and less expensive process.

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

Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate created by skilled workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks use a blank key that is exactly like your existing key. They also can make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like car keys or home security keys.

Unlike traditional key cutting, which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. This is known as key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by significantly reducing the time and expense involved.

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, such as the transponder chip that is found in car keys and the embedded microchip found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.

Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional assistance when you require one. There are many locksmiths that are not to be the same, so you must choose a reputable firm with a team of highly skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with different locking mechanisms and locks. It's also important to find locksmiths that offer emergency services as they will be able to assist in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or other secure area since it will allow them to gain access without requiring the services of a locksmith.

A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an impression. Key cutters can make use of this imprint to cut around the original key, creating a copy which is identical in dimensions and shape to the original.

Another option is to use a pattern grinder, that takes the original mobile key cutting and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade, and the grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This allows you to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces a blade to the key cutting each notch until the required depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.

Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys that is utilized in certain areas. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are 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. The service cannot make replacement keys 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 crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of types, but some factors that could affect a person's choice include the type of key they need and whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The machine they choose will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.

The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of an existing key to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine however, it could also be done using a code or laser machine. These machines typically require a code that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are several machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These are costly, however they can provide a wider variety of services.

Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are often cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and are an excellent investment for someone planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access various keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that indicate its state. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys, including dimples. It can be equipped with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. They are more expensive to replace in the event they are lost or taken. That's why it's always wise to purchase an extra key so that you have something to turn to in the event that you're stuck.

It is important to understand the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves making a new key cutting car from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of creating a spare car key, and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is more affordable than others, but could be risky if the key isn't made correctly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could cause damage to the lock and prevent your key from functioning.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can cut an optical groove on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.

At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you're sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car, if required and at a fraction as the cost to get a key cut you would pay at the dealer.