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How to Get a Car Key Cut It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. A backup key is the best way to avoid costly replacements. The cutting of your car's key at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over going to the dealer. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services. What is Key Cutting? Everybody loses keys at one point, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer to have extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This process is quicker and cheaper as well as more efficient. Key cutting is a process that involves copying the original key onto a blank key, with a specially-designed machine. This is done to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function. Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate made by trained employees in a matter of minutes. The kiosks typically make use of a key blank that has the same style as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more elaborate keys such as keys for your car or home security. Unlike traditional key cutting, which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings on a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the process of key duplication by reducing costs and time. Modern electronic keys, such as keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in a few home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require specialized equipment to duplicate correctly. Key cutting is an excellent way to obtain an extra key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. related settle for any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able to provide assistance in case of an emergency lockout. Key Cutting Techniques Key cutting permits the making of spare keys, which can protect original keys and reduce overall wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used when someone is locked out of their home, car or other secure area since it will allow the person to gain entry without the need for locksmith. Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. The tracing method involves heating the end of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky side of an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an impression. This impression can be utilized by key cutters to create a copy of the original exactly the same size and shape. Another option is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches are gone from the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Keys can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either manual or electric, and can be programmed for various keys, thus reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present. A newer form of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to get the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that resemble an asymmetrical blade, which provides more protection against bump keys and other types of tryout keys. A key cutting service can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that connects to the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's 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 key-cutting machine when someone needs their keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision include the size and style of the key, whether they want an electric or automatic machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work and how accurate it is. Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create an entirely new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from databases. There are several machines which can cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks with the same machine. They are expensive however they can provide a wider variety of services. Another alternative is to buy a set that contains the cutting machine as well as the tools required to operate it. These kits are often less expensive than buying the tools individually and are an excellent investment for someone who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys. The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that has been designed to be user-friendly. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a large range of keys and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to indicate status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys that include dimples. It is also equipped with clamps that can be used to handle the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well being cruciform keys. Key Cutting Costs Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece made of metal. They have a transponder chip that is programmed to your car and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. It's always a good idea to have a spare key so that you can access it in the event of a lockout. If you decide to have your car key cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you need can save you time and money in the long term. Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, involves using an instrument for cutting keys to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is more affordable than others, but could be risky if the key is not made properly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop your key from functioning. Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. These machines can create an optical groove on both sides of the key which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder in either way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective in protecting against theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores. At AutoZone our associates will select the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a variety of transponder key options, which means you're certain to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if required and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at a dealer.