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Why Nobody Cares About Car Key Cut
How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially when you lose the only one. A backup key is the best protection against costly replacements.

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


What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses keys at some moment, and when that happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, making it impossible to get into your home or car. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient process.

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

Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate made by trained workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks use keys that are blank and the same as your existing key. They can also make copies of keys with more complicated designs, like keys for car keys or home security.

The most recent technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.

Modern electronic keys, such as those used to control car lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, and require specific equipment.

If you require an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They can help you out in the event of an emergency lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys which can prevent damage to original keys and reduce overall wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that one is locked out of their car, home or other secure area as it can allow them to gain access without the need for locksmith.

To duplicate a key, a professional may employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. 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 imprint. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make a replica of the original exactly the same size and shape.

Another method is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the original key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed from the other end. This makes it easier to be fitted into locks. Keys can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The machine applies a blade onto the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.

Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys, which is employed in a few places. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the side of the key. This results in keys that look like an asymmetrical blade that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of test keys.

Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. However, the service isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is crucial to select the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are a variety of types and some of the factors that could influence a person's choice are the type of key they require, whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric machine and how much money they want to spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work and how accurate it is.

Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut a new one. This can be done manually or with a manual machine, but it can also be done with a laser or code. These machines typically require a code 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 databases.

There are a few machines which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They can help locksmiths save time by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. These machines are expensive, however, they offer a wider range of services.

A kit that includes the machine and the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing the tools individually and are an excellent investment for those who wants to start a business cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large variety of keys and offers steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting the keys. The machine also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to show the its status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with optional clamps to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep an extra key in case you can use it in the event of a lockout.

It's important to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. Although they may appear like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require can save you money and time in the long term.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making a spare car key, and it involves using a key cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is more affordable than other methods, but it can be risky when the key isn't made properly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut key can damage the lock and stop the key from working.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specialized. These machines can create laser grooves on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These are often referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.

At AutoZone, an associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make and model, and then use a special cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys so you'll be able to get the right one for your car. We can help you program the key to your car, if you require it and for a fraction of the cost the cost you would pay at a dealer.

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