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How to Get a Car Key Cut It can be costly to replace the keys to your car, especially when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best method to avoid costly replacements. Cutting your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. But not all hardware stores or locksmith establishments offer key duplication and programming services. What is Key Cutting? Everyone loses their keys at some time. This could be a major hassle because you're unable get into your vehicle or home. The majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a faster and less expensive process. Key cutting is a process that involves copying an original key onto an uncut key, by using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original one in terms of form and function and makes it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your property using a fake. Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. The kiosks typically make use of a key blank that has the same style as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more elaborate keys like keys for home or car security. The latest 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 revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing costs and time. Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, contain 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 some home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require special equipment to duplicate properly. If you require a spare key, cutting is a fast and simple way to get one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable firm with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also essential to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, as they will be able to provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout. Key Cutting Techniques Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys which can protect the original keys and decrease overall wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used if someone is locked out of their home, car or any other safe place since it will allow them to gain access without the assistance of locksmith. To create a duplicate key, a professional can choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create a copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape. Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the original key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed at the other end. This makes the key easier to insert into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using punch machines. A punch machine takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. A device then forces a blade to the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. These machines are electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with different keys. This reduces the need for an expert. Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is utilized in specific areas. Instead of grinding the keys down to the right dimensions, the laser is used remove the material from the side of the key. The keys resemble the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys. A key cutting service can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, which feature an embedded chip that connects to the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. However the service cannot make replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is often reserved for dealerships and automobile manufacturers. Key Cutting Equipment If a person wants to have their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision are the type and size of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The tool they select will also affect the quality of their work and how precise it is. The majority of key cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine. It can also be done with the laser or a code machine. These machines typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from a database. There are a few machines that cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These machines are expensive, however, they offer a wider variety of services. Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are often cheaper than purchasing the tools individually, and can be an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys. Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a broad range of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting the keys. It also comes with a built-in accessory tray and LED lights that indicate the status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode a variety of keys including dimples. It can be equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys. Key Cutting Costs Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that require programming to work with your car and require specialized cutting machinery. This makes them more expensive to replace if they are stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have an extra key in case you can access it in the case of an emergency lockout. It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing what service you need will save your time and money in the long term. Mechanical key duplication is a more traditional method of making a spare car key and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it can be risky when the key is not made properly or the blank is of poor quality. A poorly cut key could cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working. Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can cut an optical groove on both sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way while still functioning. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective in preventing theft than normal keys. mobile car key cutting are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated 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 then utilize a special cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a variety of transponder keys so you're sure that you get the correct one for your vehicle. We can even assist you to programme it to your car if necessary, at less than the price that you would pay at an auto dealer.