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How to Get a Car Key Cut Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially if you lose your only one. A backup key is the best defense against expensive replacements. Cutting your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. There aren't all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming. What is Key Cutting? Everybody loses their keys at some time. This can be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. The majority of people prefer having spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient process. Key cutting is a process that involves replicating an original key on the blank key by using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to 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 workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks make use of keys that are blank and exactly like your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complex designs, such as keys for car keys 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 duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and it revolutionises the process of key duplication by reducing costs and time. Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed correctly. These additional components, like the transponder chip found in car keys, or a microchip embedded in a few home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to be part of, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate properly. Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain an extra key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional assistance when you require one. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate a locksmith that offers emergency services as they'll be able to provide assistance in the event of an accident that causes a lockout. Key Cutting Techniques Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used when someone is locked out of their home, car or any other safe place since it will allow them to gain access without requiring the services of locksmith. To create a duplicate key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it is black and pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This creates an imprint. Key cutters can make use of this imprint to cut away, making a copy that is the same size and shape to the original. Another option is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the key and grinds it down until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This allows you to insert the key into locks. In addition, a key can be cut with a punch machine, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The machine applies an edge onto the key and then cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with various keys. This eliminates the requirement for an expert. Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting key s that is used in a few areas. Instead of grinding the keys to the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the side of the key. This results in keys that look like the serrated blades, which provides more protection against bump keys as well as other types of tryout keys. A key cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or lock. However the service isn't capable of creating replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming often reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers. Key Cutting Equipment When a person gets their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision are the type and size of the key, whether they want an electric or automatic machine, and how much they want spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work and how precise it is. Most key cutting machines trace the profile of a key to create a new key. This can be done manually or with a manual machine. It can also be done using a laser or a code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the notch on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be 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 available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks at the same time. These machines can be expensive however they also enable locksmiths to provide a wider range 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 less expensive than purchasing the tools individually and could be a good investment for anyone who wishes to venture into the business of cutting keys. Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access many keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to indicate status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys, including dimples. It is equipped with clamps that can be used to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys. Key Cutting Cost Modern car keys are more than a mere piece of metal. redirected here have transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they get lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to purchase an extra key so that you have something to go to in case you find yourself in a bind. If you're considering having your car keys cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the act of copying an existing key. Knowing the type of service you require will save you time and money in the long run. Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making an extra car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods for making an alternative car key, but it can be risky when the key isn't correctly constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop functioning. Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can cut a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective at preventing theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores. At AutoZone the associate will choose the right key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys, so you'll be able to find the correct one for your car. We can help you program the key to your car, if required and at a fraction of price as you would at dealers.