Why You Should Not Think About Enhancing Your Car Key Cut How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.

You can save money by having your car keys cut at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. But not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some moment. This can be a major inconvenience, as you are unable to access your vehicle or go to your home. A majority of people prefer to have additional keys made rather than replacing their locks. This process is quicker and less expensive, as well as more convenient.

Key cutting is the process of creating a key using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original in both shape and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores provide the option of a key-cutting station, where you can get an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks make use of keys that are blank and the same as your existing key. They can also make copies of keys with more complex designs, such as home security or car keys.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology in key duplication uses lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank piece of. This is known as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services operate by drastically reducing the time and expense involved.

Modern electronic keys, such as ones used to control car lock systems or security access points, come with additional components that must be programmed to work correctly. These additional 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 require special equipment to duplicate properly.

If you require a spare, key cutting is a fast and simple method to obtain one. However, you should always consult a professional. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find a locksmith who offers emergency services. They will be able to assist you in the event of an emergency lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting allows for the creation of spare keys, which will prevent damage to the original keys and decrease overall wear and wear and. A spare key can be used to gain access to a home, car, or other safe location if someone is locked out.

A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate the key. The method of tracing involves heating the end of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky side the piece of clear tape. This leaves an imprint. This impression can be used by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.

Another 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 gone from the other end. This allows the key to insert into locks. In addition, 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 then pushes an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.

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

A key cutting service is also able of creating replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or locks. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.

Key Cutting Equipment


It is crucial to select the right machine to cut keys when a person needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision are the type and size of the key, whether they prefer an automatic or electric machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality of their work and how accurate it is.

where to get a car key cut of key cutting machines operate by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut a new one. This can be done by hand or using a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines will typically need codes that tell the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from the database.

There are a few tools that cut mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These machines can be expensive however they also make it possible to offer an array of services to customers.

A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically less expensive than purchasing individual tools and are an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch a business cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. Its 10-inch touchscreen tablet lets users access a wide range of keys and provides steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. The machine also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate the status, according to Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well being Cruciform keys.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in an extra key so that you have something to go to in the event that you're in a pinch.

It's crucial to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. Although they may appear like they are similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch, while 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 a traditional method of making a spare car key and it requires a key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is cheaper than others, but could be risky if the key isn't created properly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut key can damage the lock and stop your key from functioning.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can create laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective at stopping theft than normal keys. They are also more expensive because they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates use a special machine to duplicate your car key using the correct blank for your vehicle's year and make. We have a broad selection of transponder keys, so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can also help you connect it to your car if necessary, at less than the price that you would spend at an auto dealer.