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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. The cutting of your car's key at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. Not all hardware or locksmith establishments offer key duplication or programming. What is Key Cutting? Everybody loses keys at one point, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, making it impossible to gain access to your car or home. The majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than changing their locks. This process is quicker and less expensive, as well as more convenient. Key cutting is the process of duplicating a key using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the key matches the original both in shape and function. Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can have a copy created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks usually use a key blank that has the identical design as your current key, however, they also can make copies of more intricate keys, such as car 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 original key's unique markings onto a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and it revolutionises the way key duplication services work by reducing costs and time. Modern electronic keys, such as keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, requiring special equipment. If you require an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy method of getting one. However, you should always consult a professional. Not all locksmiths are to be the same, so you must look for a reputable company with a team of skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training to deal with various locking mechanisms and locks. It's also important to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they will be able to provide assistance in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout. Key Cutting Techniques Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This helps to prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another secure location if someone has locked themselves out. To make a duplicate key, a professional can either use the tracing or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This leaves an impression. This impression can be used by key cutters to create a replica of the original identical in size and shape. A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to fit into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with a punch machine, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. A device then forces a blade to the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. try these out are manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the need for an expert. A newer form of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down keys to get the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The result is the keys looking similar to an asymmetrical blade that provides greater protection against bump keys and other kinds of keys for tryouts. A key cutting service is also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or locks. The service can't make replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers. Key Cutting Equipment It is essential to select the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of models however, some elements that can influence a person's choice are the type of key they require as well as whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric machine and how much money they want to spend. The type of machine they select will also influence the quality and precision of their work. The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of one key to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It could also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines will typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from databases. There are a few tools that cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These machines can be expensive, but they can also allow you to offer an array of services to customers. Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and are a great investment for anyone who wishes to venture into the business of cutting keys. Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be simple to use. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide range of keys, and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. Ilco says the machine has an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its state. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It is able to be fitted with optional clamps to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key. Key to reducing Cost Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They contain 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 stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to invest in an extra key so that you have something to turn to in the event that you're in a pinch. It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing which service you need can 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 an instrument to trace the original contours on the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of making keys for replacement, but it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well created or the key blank isn't high-quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop functioning. Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting device that is specifically designed. These machines can make a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. They are commonly called sidewinder keys and are more effective in preventing theft than conventional keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys because they are more complicated and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores. AutoZone's associates use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, which means you're certain to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can also help you program it to your vehicle if necessary, at less than the price that you would pay at a dealership.