How The 10 Most Disastrous Car Key Cut Fails Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented

How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly in the case of only one you have. Having duplicate keys is the best way to avoid expensive replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one moment, and when that occurs, it could be an extremely stressful day, causing you to be unable to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer having extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This process is faster and less expensive, as well as more efficient.

Key cutting is a method that involves duplicating the 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 form and function.

A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can get a copy created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks typically use keys that have the same design as your existing key, however, they also can make copies of more intricate keys like car or home security keys.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and is revolutionizing the way key duplication services work by reducing time and costs.

Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These other components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require special equipment to duplicate properly.

If you require a spare key, cutting is a quick and easy method of getting one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths who provide emergency services. They can assist you in the event of an accident lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used if one is locked out of their car, home or any other safe place because it allows the person to gain entry without requiring the services of a locksmith.

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

Another common method is to use a pattern grinder, that takes the original key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This makes it easier to insert into locks. Keys can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine applies an edge onto the key and cuts each notch at the required depth. The machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the need for a specialist.

Laser cutting is a modern method of cutting keys that is utilized in a few areas. Instead of grinding the keys to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove material from the side of the key. The keys appear like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other kinds of keys.

A key cutting service can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, that have an embedded chip that connects to a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is important to choose the right key-cutting machine when you need your keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, if they want an electric or automated 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 and how precise it is.

Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create a new key. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done with the laser or a code machine. These machines will typically need an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.

There are also a range of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks at the same time. They are expensive but can offer a greater range of services.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and can be an excellent investment for those planning to launch an operation that cuts keys.

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

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they get lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can access it in the event of a lockout.

If you decide to have your car key cut it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money over the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, uses the key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making keys for replacement, but it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well created or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Insufficiently- key cutting cost  can damage the lock and stop the key from working.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can cut an optical groove on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing in any way and still function. These are often referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys since they are more complex and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.

At AutoZone, an associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options, so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car if necessary, at less than the price that you would spend at a dealership.