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How to Get a Car Key Cut It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly if it is the only one you have. A backup key is the best defense against expensive replacements. You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. Not all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming. What is Key Cutting? Everyone loses their keys at some time. This could be a major inconvenience, as you are unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. Most people prefer to have additional keys made instead of changing their locks. This is faster and less expensive, as well as more convenient. Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of a key using a special 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 have a copy made by trained employees in just a few minutes. These kiosks make use of an uncut key that is exactly like your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complicated designs, such as car keys or home security keys. The most recent technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services work by drastically reducing the time and expense involved. Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip that is found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip found in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, which requires specialised equipment. Key cutting is a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should look for a reputable company with a committed team of skilled professionals who have undergone rigorous training to deal with various locking mechanisms and locks. You should also seek out a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able assist you in the event of an emergency lockout. Key Cutting Techniques Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys, which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used in the event that someone is locked out of their home, car or any other secure location because it allows them to gain entry without the need for a locksmith. To create a duplicate key, a professional may employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, 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. A key cutter will utilize this imprint to cut it away creating a copy that is exactly the same in size and shape to the original. A pattern grinder is another popular method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface on one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to fit into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The device forces a blade on the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys. This means that there is no requirement for an expert. A newer form of key cutting technique is also being used in some places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down the keys to create the proper dimensions, a laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that resemble a serrated blade, which provides more protection against bump keys and other kinds of keys for tryouts. Key cutting services can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, that have an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service cannot make replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars. Key Cutting Equipment It is important to choose the right key-cutting machine when a person needs their keys cut. There are many different types and some of the factors that could affect a person's choice include the type of key they require and whether or not they prefer to use an automated or electric device, and the much they are willing to spend. The tool they select will also impact the quality of their work and how precise it is. Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of one key to cut a new one. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine. It could also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the notch on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually or downloaded from the database. There are a few tools which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both locks at the same time. These tools can be costly however they can enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers. Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing individual tools separately and can 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. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large variety of keys and offers step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting the keys. The machine also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to show the its status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys, including dimples. It also comes with clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as Cruciform keys. Key Cutting Cost Modern car keys are much more than a simple piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to invest in an extra key, so you have something to go to if you find yourself stuck. If you're considering having your car keys cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While auto key cutting may seem like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require can save you money and time in the long run. Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of creating a spare car key and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours on the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods for making keys for replacement however it could be risky in the event that the key isn't well created or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. A poorly cut key could cause damage to the lock and prevent your key from working. Laser car key cutting and programming requires a key-cutting device that is specially designed. These machines can make a laser groove on both flat sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing either way and still function. auto key cutting are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective in protecting against theft than normal keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores. AutoZone's associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the right blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can also help you connect it to your car if necessary, at a fraction of the cost that you would spend at an auto dealer.