The Most Pervasive Issues In Car Key Cut

How to Get a Car Key Cut

It can be costly to replace your car keys cut by code keys, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective way to avoid expensive replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some time. This can be a major hassle as you are unable to get into your car or home. The majority of people prefer having extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a quicker, cheaper and more convenient process.

Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original in both shape and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting station where you can get copies made in just a few minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks typically use a key blank that has the same style as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more elaborate keys, such as car or home security keys.

The latest technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank. This is referred to as key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost involved.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed properly. These other components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys, or a microchip embedded in some home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require specialized equipment to duplicate correctly.

If you require a spare key, cutting is a fast and simple method to obtain one. However, you should always consult a professional. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have undergone rigorous training 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 provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to your home or vehicle, or another safe location if someone has locked themselves outside.

A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an impression. This impression can be used by key cutters to create a replica of the original identical in size and shape.

A pattern grinder is another common method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Finally, a key can be cut using punch machines, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key, cutting each notch to the required 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.

Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is utilized in a few areas. Instead of grinding the keys to the proper dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the sides of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to a serrated blade which offers more protection against bump keys as well as other types of test keys.

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

Key Cutting Equipment

When a person gets their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the size and type of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also impact the quality of their work as well as how accurate it is.

Most key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of one key to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines will typically need codes that tell the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.

There are several machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These machines are expensive, but can offer a greater variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine and the tools needed to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are usually cheaper than buying the tools individually and could be a good investment for anyone who wishes to venture into the business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access many keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that show its status. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys including dimples. It can also be fitted with optional clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys, as being Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that must be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they get lost or stolen. It's always a good idea to have a spare key so that you can use it in the event of an emergency 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 like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying a key. Knowing the type of service you require will save you time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is less expensive than other options, but it can be risky when the key is not made correctly or the blank is of poor quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could damage the lock and stop the key from working.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can create laser grooves on both flat 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 key cutting keys and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection 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 program it to your vehicle if necessary, at a fraction of the cost that you would spend at a dealership.