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How to Get a Car Key Cut It's expensive to replace the keys to your car, especially if it is the only one you have. The possession of duplicate keys is the best defense against expensive replacements. You can save money by having your car keys cut at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication and programming services. What is Key Cutting? Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This could be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks completely. This is faster, cheaper, and more efficient. Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of a key using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in form and function. Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks typically use keys with the same style as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more complicated keys like keys for your car or home security. The latest technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is referred to as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost. Modern electronic keys, like those used to control car lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components, like a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some home security keys, communicate with the system they're designed to be part of 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 professional assistance when you require it. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should select a reputable company with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locks and locking systems. You should also look for locksmiths who provide emergency services. They can help you out in the event of an emergency lockout. Key Cutting Techniques Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and decreases wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used in the event that someone is locked out of their car, home or any other safe place since it will allow the person to gain entry without the need for locksmith. To create a duplicate key, a professional may employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an imprint. This impression can be utilized by key cutters to create a replica of the original that is exactly the same size and shape. key cutting open now is to use a pattern grinder, that takes the original key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches disappear on the other side. 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. A device then forces a blade to the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This means that there is no need for an expert. A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being used in some places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to get the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that look like an asymmetrical blade that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of keys for tryouts. Key cutting services are also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. However it cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers. Key Cutting Equipment It is important to choose the right key-cutting machine when a person needs their keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the type and size of the key, if they want an electric or automated machine, and the amount they want spend. The machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work. The majority of key cutting machines trace the outline of an existing key to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine however, it could also be done with the use of a laser machine or code. These machines will typically need a code that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from databases. There are also a number of machines that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. They are expensive however they can provide a wider range of services. A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and can be a good investment for someone who wants to get into the business of cutting keys. Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide range of keys and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting the keys. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that show its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It can be equipped with optional clamps to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key. Key Cutting Costs Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which need to be programmed to work with your car, and they require cutting machines that are specialized. This makes them more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. It's always recommended to keep a spare key in case you can access it in the event of an emergency lockout. It is important to understand the difference between duplication and cutting when you decide to have your car keys cut. Though they might seem similar, key cutting is making a new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you require can help you save money and time in the long run. Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, involves using an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is more affordable than other options, but it could be risky if the key isn't made properly or the key is not of good quality. Keys that are cut improperly can harm the lock's cylinder, and cause the key to stop functioning. Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specially designed. These machines can make a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. These are commonly called sidewinder keys and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores. At AutoZone, an associate will choose the right key blank for your year, make and model, and then use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a variety of transponder key options so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can also help you program it to your vehicle should you require it, for less than the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.