What The 10 Most Stupid Car Key Cut Fails Of All Time Could Have Been Prevented How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially when you lose the only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.

You can save money by cutting your car keys at a car dealer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. However, not all hardware stores or locksmith shops offer key duplication or programming services.

What is Key Cutting?


Everyone loses their keys at some time. This could be a major hassle as you are unable to access your vehicle or home. auto key cutting opt to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks entirely. This process is faster and cheaper as well as more practical.

Key cutting is a technique that involves copying an original key on a blank key, by using a special machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is in line with the original in design and function and makes it impossible for anyone other than you to gain access to your home using an unauthentic.

Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk where you can have a copy made by trained employees in a matter of minutes. These kiosks are equipped with a blank key that is exactly like your existing key. They can also cut copies of keys that have more intricate designs, such as keys for car keys or home security.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.

Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, have additional components that must be programmed in order to work correctly. These additional components, like a transponder chip in vehicle keys, or a microchip embedded in some security keys for homes, communicate with the system they're designed to integrate into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate correctly.

Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, however you should always seek out professional assistance when you require it. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education in dealing with different locks and locking systems. It's also important to find a locksmith that offers emergency services, as they can provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting allows for the making of spare keys, which can prevent damage to the original keys and decrease overall wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used if one is locked out of their car, home or any other secure location since it will allow the person to gain entry without requiring the services of locksmith.

A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. The tracing method involves heating the tip of the key until it turns black and pressing it against the sticky side of the piece of clear tape. This leaves an impression. A key cutter will utilize this imprint to cut it away, making a copy that is identical in shape and size to the original.

Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder that takes the original key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one end of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear from the other end. This makes it easier to insert the key into locks. In addition, a key can be cut with punch machines, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine forces an edge onto the key and then cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with various keys. This eliminates the need for an expert.

A newer form of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down keys to make the right dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the sides of the key. The result is keys that look like an asymmetrical blade, which provides more protection against bump keys and other kinds of test keys.

Key cutting services can also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't make replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is important to choose the right machine to cut keys when you need your keys cut. There are a variety of key cutting machines. Some factors that may influence a person's decision are the size and type of the key, whether they want an electric or automated machine, and the amount they want 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 manually or with a manual machine however, it could also be done with the use of a laser machine or code. These machines will typically need an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine, or it can be downloaded from databases.

There are a few machines that cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are readily available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. They are expensive but can offer a greater range of services.

Another option is to purchase a kit that includes both the cutting machine as well as the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than buying individual tools, and can be an excellent investment for anyone looking to start an operation that cuts keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be easy to use. The removable 10-inch touchscreen lets users access a variety of keys, and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate its state. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys that include dimples. auto key cutting is equipped with clamps for handling keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Costs

Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace if they get stolen or lost. It's always an excellent idea to have a spare key so that you can use it in the event of an emergency lockout.

It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting when you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem similar, duplication is the act of copying an existing key. Knowing which service you require will help you save money and time in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires a key-cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making keys for replacement, but it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well made or the key blank isn't of high-quality. If the keys are not cut properly, they could harm the lock's cylinder, and cause your key to stop working.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can cut an optical groove on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective at preventing theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys since they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will pick the appropriate 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 key options, so you're sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can assist you in programming the key to your car, if required, and at a fraction of price as you would at a dealer.