The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Car Key Cut How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be expensive to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.

The cutting of your car's key at an automotive store like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. Not all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at some time, and when this occurs, it could be an extremely stressful day, causing you to be unable to get into your home or car. A majority of people prefer to have extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This process is quicker, cheaper, and more convenient.

Key cutting is a method that involves copying an original key on a blank key, by using a special machine. This process is carried out to ensure that the new key matches the original in both design and function which makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property using an imitation.

Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can obtain a duplicate made by trained workers within a matter of minutes. The kiosks typically make use of keys with the same design as your existing key, but they can also cut copies of more complicated keys, such as keys for your car or home security.


The latest technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. This is referred to as key by photo, and it is changing the way key duplication services operate by significantly reducing the time and expense involved.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require specialized equipment to duplicate properly.

Key cutting can be the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are created to be the same, so you must look for a reputable company with a dedicated team of experts who have completed rigorous training to handle various locking mechanisms and locks. It is also essential to locate a locksmith that offers emergency services, since they'll be able to assist in the event of a mishap that results in a lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting is a method of creation of spare keys, which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce overall wear and wear and. A spare key can also be used when someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other secure location since it will allow them to gain entry without the assistance of a locksmith.

A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it turns black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. This impression can be utilized by key cutters to create an exact copy of the original identical to its size and shape.

Another method is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut using punch machines, which takes the key and measures the depth of each notch. The device then pushes an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the required depth. The machines can be either manual or electric and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.

Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys that is used in specific places. Instead of grinding keys down to the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The keys look like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types.

A key cutting service may create replacement keys for electronic key fobs that have an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. However the service cannot create replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming that is often reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

If a person wants to have their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many different types, but some factors that could influence a person's choice are the kind of key they require as well as whether or not they want to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The type of machine they select will also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.

car key cutting near me of key cutting machines work by tracing the contour of one key to cut new ones. This can be done manually or using a manual machine, but it can be accomplished using a laser or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to put the notch on the new key. A code can be entered into the machine manually, or it can be downloaded from a database.

There are also a number of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These tools can be costly however they also make it possible to offer more services to customers.

Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing individual tools separately and can be a good option for those looking to venture 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. Ilco states that the machine has an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its current status. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys, including dimples. It can also be fitted with optional clamps for handling the flat household keys 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 need to be programmed to work with your car and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It's always an excellent idea to have an extra key in case you can utilize it in the situation of an emergency lockout.

When you choose to have your car keys cut, it is important to know the difference between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem like they are similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save you time and money over the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way of making an extra car key and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of the blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods for making a replacement car key however, it can be risky in the event that the key isn't well constructed 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 functioning.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specifically designed. These machines can cut laser grooves on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in either direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinders and are more effective at protecting against theft than regular keys. These keys are also more expensive since they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.

At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use a special cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a broad selection of transponder key options 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 you require it, and at a fraction of the cost you would pay at dealers.