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How to Get a Car Key Cut It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. A backup key is the best protection against costly replacements. Having your car key cut at a car repair shop like AutoZone can save you money over the dealership. Not all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming. What is Key Cutting? Everybody loses their keys at some point. This could be a major inconvenience, because you're unable access your vehicle or home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks completely. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient process. Key cutting is the process of creating keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original in both shape and function. A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can get a copy made by trained workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks use a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys with more complex designs, like keys for car keys or home security. The latest technology for key replication utilizes lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is called key by photo, and it is revolutionising the way that key duplication services function by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost involved. Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to work correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip in vehicle 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 correctly. Key cutting is a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional help when you need one. Don't settle for any locksmith. Instead, select a reputable company with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate a locksmith that offers emergency services, as they can assist 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 reduces wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to your home, car, or other secure location if someone has locked themselves outside. Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side of a piece clear tape. This creates an impression. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original exactly the same size and shape. Another method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the original key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches are gone from the other end. This makes the key easier to insert into locks. Keys can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The device then pushes a blade to the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. The machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys. This eliminates the requirement for an expert. A newer form of key cutting technique is being utilized in certain locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the correct dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the side of the key. The keys look like the serrated knife and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types of keys. A key cutting service is also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. However, the service cannot create replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming, which is often reserved for dealerships and car 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 machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work. key cutting open now cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create an entirely new key. This can be done by hand or using a machine that is manual but it can be accomplished using a code or laser machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the notch on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database. There are also a range of machines that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These machines can be expensive, but they can also enable locksmiths to provide an array of services to customers. Another alternative is to buy a kit that includes both the cutting machine and tools required to operate it. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and could be a good investment for someone who wants to start a 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 allows users to access a broad range of keys, and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting the keys. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray as well as LED lights that show its state. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It can be equipped with optional clamps to handle flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key. Key Cutting Cost Modern keys for cars are more simply a piece of metal. They contain transponder chips that need to be programmed to work with your car and require special 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 purchase an extra key so that you'll have something to turn to in the event that you're in a pinch. If you're considering having your car keys cut, it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, duplication is the process of copying a key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money in the long term. Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making an extra car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This method is more affordable than others, but is risky if the key isn't created correctly or the key is not of good quality. A poorly cut key could harm the lock and prevent the key from working. Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create laser grooves on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. These are often called sidewinder keys, and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. They are also more expensive because they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores. AutoZone's associates will employ an instrument that can duplicate your car key by using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a variety of transponder key options, so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can even help you connect it to your car should you require it, for less than the price that you would pay at a dealership.