Salas User

How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.

You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one moment, and when that happens, it can be an absolute hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to access your home or car. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks entirely. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient procedure.

Key cutting is the process of duplicating the key using a specially-designed machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original in both design and function and makes it impossible for someone else to access your property using an imitation.

Many hardware stores and big box stores offer a key-cutting station where you can get a copy made in minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks usually use a key blank that has the same style as your current key, but they can also cut copies of more elaborate keys like keys for your car or home security.

In contrast to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. This is known as key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services function by drastically reducing the time and cost involved.

Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to function properly. These additional 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 be part of and require special equipment to duplicate correctly.

Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain an extra key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional assistance when you require it. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have received a rigorous education to deal with various locks and locking systems. It's also important to find locksmiths that offer emergency services, as they will be able to help in the event of an accident that causes a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

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

To create a duplicate key, a professional may choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an impression. Key cutters can use this imprint to cut it away creating a copy that is the same shape and size to the original.

Another common method is to make use of 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 the key into locks. A key can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device then pushes an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the required depth. These machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present.

Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is used in certain areas. Instead of grinding the keys down to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the side of the key. The keys resemble an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other kinds of keys.

A key cutting service can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service is not able to create replacements for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is crucial to select the right machine to cut keys when someone needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, whether they prefer an automatic or electric machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select can also influence the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.

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 but it can also be done with a laser or code. These machines require a code that tells them where to put the key's notch. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.

There are several machines that cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These machines are expensive, however they can provide a wider range of services.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and can be a good option for those looking 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. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad range of keys, and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated as well as LED lights that show its state. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car keys are more than a mere piece of metal. cheapest key cutting near me have transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your vehicle and require specialized cutting machinery. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to have an extra key so that you have something to go to if you're in a pinch.

It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing the type of service you require will save your time and money over the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way 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 more affordable than other options, but it could be risky if the key is not made correctly or the blank is of poor quality. Keys that are cut improperly can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop working.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can create a laser groove on both sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way and still function. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive because they're more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will choose the right key blank for your year, model, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a broad selection of transponder key options, so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can even help you programme it to your car should you require it, for only a fraction of the price that you would pay at a dealership.

Member since: Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Website: https://menwiki.men/wiki/10_Things_You_Learned_In_Kindergarden_Theyll_Help_You_Understand_Car_Keys_Cutting