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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. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements. Cutting your car keys at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over going to the dealer. However, not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services. What is Key Cutting? Everybody loses keys at some point, and when this happens, it can be an extremely stressful day, causing you to be unable to get into your home or car. Most people prefer having extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient procedure. Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating an original key on a blank key, by using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key matches the original in both shape and function. Many hardware stores and big box stores offer a key-cutting station where you can get copies made in just a few minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks are equipped with keys that are blank and identical to your current key. They can also make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, such as car keys or home security keys. Unlike traditional key cutting, which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the key's unique markings on a blank key. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing time and costs. Modern electronic keys, like keys used to control the security of car locks or access points, have additional components that must be programmed to function properly. These additional components like the transponder chip found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with their respective systems, requiring specialised equipment. If you require an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy method to obtain one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. Not all locksmiths are created to be the same, so you must look for a reputable company with a committed team of highly skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able provide assistance in case of a lockout accident. Key Cutting Techniques Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a home or vehicle, or another safe location if someone is locked out. Professionals can employ either the punching or tracing method to duplicate keys. The tracing method involves heating the end of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky side a piece clear tape. This creates an imprint. A key cutter can then use this imprint to cut away the original key, creating a copy which is the same dimensions and shape to the original. A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a flat surface on one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. These machines can either be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with various keys. This eliminates the need for a specialist. A newer form of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other kinds of keys. A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. However it cannot make replacements for the more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is typically reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers. Key Cutting Equipment It is crucial to select the correct key-cutting machine for you need your keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision include the size and style of the key, if they want an automatic or electric machine, and how much they'd like to spend. replacement car key cutting choose will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work. The majority of key cutting machines trace the profile of an existing key to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done with a laser or code machine. These machines require a code that tells them where to place the key's notch. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database. There are a variety of machines that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks at the same time. These machines can be expensive however they can make it possible to offer an array of services to customers. A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools needed to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are usually less expensive than purchasing tools on their own and could be a good investment for anyone who wishes to venture into the business of cutting keys. cost to get a key cut is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen allows users to access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its status. 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 flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key. Key Cutting Costs Modern keys for cars are more than simply a 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 if they are stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to have an extra key so that you have something to turn to if you find yourself in a bind. It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, key cutting is creating a brand new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing one. Knowing which one you require will save you money and time in the long run. Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods for making keys for replacement however it could be risky if the key isn't properly constructed or the key blank isn't high-quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning. Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specifically designed. These machines can create an optical groove on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit inside the lock-cylinder either way. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective at stopping theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive because they're more complex and difficult to find in hardware stores. At AutoZone the associate will select the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use a specific cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We have a broad selection of transponder key options, so you are sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car, if you require it, and for a fraction of the cost price as you would at the dealer.