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How to Get a Car Key Cut Car keys can be costly to replace, especially when you lose the only one. The possession of duplicate keys is the best way to avoid costly replacements. You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services. What is Key Cutting? Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This could be a huge inconvenience because you're unable get into your vehicle or go to your home. The majority of people prefer having extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a quicker and less expensive procedure. Key cutting is a process that involves copying an original key onto the blank key by using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function. Many hardware stores and big box stores have an area for cutting keys where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks make use of a blank key that is exactly like your existing key. They can also make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, such as car keys or home security keys. In contrast to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes 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, contain additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys and the embedded microchip found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, and require specific equipment. Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain a spare key quickly and easily, however it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. car key cutting and programming should also seek out a locksmith who offers emergency services. They can help you out in the event of an emergency lockout. Key Cutting Techniques Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and reduces wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used if one is locked out of their home, car or other secure area since it will allow them to gain entry without requiring the services of a locksmith. Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut around, making a copy that is exactly the same in dimensions and shape to the original. A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows you to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The device then pushes an edge down on the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys, reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present. Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys that is utilized in specific places. Instead of grinding the keys to create the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other types of keys. Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. However it isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers. Key Cutting Equipment If someone needs their keys cut, it is important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a myriad of models and some of the factors that can influence a person's decision include the type of key they need, whether or not they want to use an automated or electric machine and how much they are willing to spend. The machine they choose will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work. Most key cutting machines trace the contour of a key to create a new key. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual, but it can also be done with the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the key's notch. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from the database. There are also a number of machines that are able to cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These machines can be expensive however they also allow you to offer an array of services to customers. 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 purchasing individual tools separately and are an excellent investment for anyone 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 touchscreen tablet that is removable lets users access a wide range of keys and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting the keys. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that indicate its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as as Cruciform keys. Key Cutting Costs Modern keys for cars are more simply a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep a spare key so that you can use it in the situation of an emergency lockout. It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem identical, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing the type of service you require will save you time and money in the long term. Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, uses an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods for making an alternative car key, but it can be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop functioning. Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specially designed. These machines can cut a laser 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 called sidewinder keys and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores. At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys, which means you can be sure that you get the correct one for your car. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if required and for a fraction of the cost the cost you would pay at the dealer.