20 Myths About Car Key Cut: Busted

How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace the keys to your car, especially when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some point. This could be a major hassle because you're unable access your vehicle or go to your home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This is a quicker and key cutting machine less expensive procedure.

Key cutting is a method that involves duplicating an original key on a blank key, with a specially-designed machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original in both design and function which makes it impossible for anyone else to unlock your home using a fake.

Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can get a copy made by trained workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks are equipped with an uncut key that is identical to your current key. They can also make copies of keys with more complicated designs, like car keys or home security keys.

The most advanced technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key cutting price onto a blank one. It's called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the method of key duplication by reducing costs and time.

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

Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek professional help when you need one. You should not 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. You should also seek out locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able to assist you in the event of an emergency lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to your home or car, or any other secure location if someone has locked themselves outside.

A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky side a piece clear tape. This creates an imprint. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make a copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.

A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows you to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the 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 a variety of keys. This reduces the need for a specialist.

Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys, which is employed in specific places. Instead of grinding down keys to make the correct dimensions, a laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to the serrated blades that provides greater protection against bump keys and other kinds of tryout keys.

Key cutting services can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, that have an embedded chip that communicates with the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. However the service isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming, which is often reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

When a person gets their keys cut, it is important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the size and style of the key, whether they want an automatic or electric machine, and the amount they want spend. The type of machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.

Most key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of one key to cut another one. This can be done manually or with a manual machine however, it could be accomplished using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to put the notch on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are a few machines that cut both cylinder and key cutting machine mortice locks. Dual key cutters are available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. They are expensive however, they offer a wider variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are usually cheaper than buying tools on their own and can be a good investment for someone who wants to start a business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide variety of keys and offers step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. The machine also has an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to indicate status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It also comes with optional clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which must be programmed to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. That's why it's always wise to have an extra key so that you have something to turn to if you find yourself in a bind.

If you're considering having your car keys cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money over the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making a spare car key, and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods of creating keys for replacement however, it can be risky if the key isn't properly made or the key blank isn't high-quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent your key from functioning.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specially designed. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in preventing theft than regular keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.

At AutoZone the associate will choose the right key blank for your year, make and model, and then utilize a specific cutting machine to duplicate your old 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 at a fraction as the cost you would pay at dealers.