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How to Get a Car Key Cut Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly in the event that you lose only one. A backup key is the best protection against expensive replacements. You can save money by cutting your car keys at an auto retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming. What is Key Cutting? Everyone loses their keys at some moment. This can be a major hassle because you're unable get into your vehicle or go to your home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more convenient. Key cutting is the process of duplicating the key using a specially-designed machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original one in terms of design and function which makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property with a fake. Many hardware stores and big box stores have an area for cutting keys where you can have copies made in just a few minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks use an uncut key that is the same as your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys that have more intricate designs, like home security or car keys. Contrary to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time. Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, come with 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 in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, requiring specialised equipment. Key cutting is the best way to get an extra key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional assistance when you require one. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should select a reputable company with a team of professionals who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths that offer emergency services, as they can help in the event of an accident that causes a lockout. Key Cutting Techniques Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used in the event that someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or other secure area because it allows them to gain access without the assistance of a locksmith. To make a duplicate key, a professional can employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The tracing method involves heating the edge of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This creates an impression. This impression can be utilized by a key cutter to make a copy of the original that is identical to its size and shape. Another common method is to make use of a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade and the grooves and notches disappear on the other side. This makes the key easier to be fitted into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with a punch machine, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The device forces a blade on the key and then cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys, thus reducing the need for an expert to be present. Laser cutting is a more recent technique for cutting keys that is used in specific areas. Instead of grinding down keys to get the correct dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types. Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer systems of a vehicle or lock. The service is not able to create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers. Key Cutting Equipment If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's important to find the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of key cutting machines. A few factors that could affect a person's choice include the type and size of the key, if they want an electric or automated machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they select will also affect the quality and precision of their work. The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut a new one. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine, but it can also be done using the use of a laser machine or code. These machines will typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases. There are also a number of machines that are able to cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are often called dual key cutters. They can reduce the time a locksmith spends by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. They are expensive however they can provide a wider variety 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 less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and are a great option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys. The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen allows users to access many keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to show the its status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys including dimples. It is equipped with optional clamps to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key. Key to reducing Cost Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which must be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. That's why it's always wise to invest in an extra key so that you'll have something to turn to in the event that you're in a pinch. It is important to understand the difference between duplication and cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. Although they may appear similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which service you need will save you time and money in the long run. Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making a spare car key and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of creating keys for replacement, but it can be risky when the key isn't correctly created or the key blank isn't high-quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent your key from working. Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a special key-cutting machine. his response can create laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing either way, and still function. They are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complex and harder to find at hardware stores. At AutoZone our associates 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 wide selection of transponder keys, so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if required and at a fraction as price as you would at dealers.