The No. #1 Question That Everyone In Car Key Cut Should Be Able To Answer How to Get a Car Key Cut

It can be costly to replace the keys to your car, especially in the case of only one you have. key cutting for cars of duplicate keys is the best defense against costly replacements.

You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. There aren't all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication or programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some time. This can be a huge inconvenience because you're unable get into your vehicle or home. A majority of people prefer to have extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is faster, cheaper, and more practical.

Key cutting is the process of creating keys using a specific machine. This is done to make sure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can obtain a duplicate created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. 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 complicated keys such as car or home security keys.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank piece of. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. These other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in a few home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate correctly.

When you need an extra key, cutting it is a quick and easy way to get one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should look for a reputable company with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training to handle different locking mechanisms and locks. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, as they'll be able to help in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. A spare key could be used to gain access to a house, car, or other safe location if someone is locked out.

To create a duplicate key, a professional could choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an impression. This imprint can be utilized by key cutters to create a replica of the original identical in size and shape.

A pattern grinder is a different common method. It grinds the original key until it has a flat surface on one side and grooves and notches removed from the other. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with punch machines. A punch machine is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The device then pushes a blade to the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This reduces the need for an expert.

Laser cutting is a more recent method of cutting keys that is used in a few locations. Instead of grinding down the keys to create the right dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.

Key cutting services are also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. The key fobs are equipped with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. The service cannot make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is important to choose the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of models, but some factors that influence a person's decision include the type of key they require, whether or not they prefer to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they want to spend. The machine they choose can also impact the quality of their work as well as the accuracy of it.

Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine, but it can also be done with a code or laser machine. These machines will typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.


There are a variety of machines that are able to cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both locks simultaneously. These tools can be costly however they also enable locksmiths to provide more services to customers.

Another alternative is to buy a set that contains the cutting machine as well as the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools, and can be an excellent investment for anyone looking to start an enterprise that cuts 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. The machine also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate the status, according Ilco. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys, including dimples. It can also be fitted with clamps that can be used to handle flat household and Tibbe keys, as well as Cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern keys for cars are more than simply a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which must be programmed to work with your vehicle, and they require specialized cutting machinery. They are more costly to replace in the event they are stolen or lost. It is a good idea to invest in an extra key so that you'll have something to turn to in the event that you're stuck.

If you decide to have your car key cut it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. 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 service you require can save you money and time in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making a spare car key, and it requires an instrument to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods for making a replacement car key, but it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well constructed or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could cause damage to the lock and prevent your key from functioning.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specialized. These machines can make laser grooves on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit inside the lock-cylinder in any direction. 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 complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will use an instrument that can duplicate your car keys using the right blank for your vehicle's year and make. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you're sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can also help you programme it to your car in case you need to, at a fraction of the cost that you would spend at an auto dealer.