The 12 Worst Types Car Key Cut The Twitter Accounts That You Follow How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially when you lose the only one. official source are the best way to avoid expensive 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 their keys at some time. This can be a huge inconvenience because you're unable access your vehicle or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is a quicker and less expensive process.

Key cutting is a process that involves duplicating the original key onto an uncut key, by using a special machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key matches the original in both shape and function.

A lot of hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can get a copy made by trained workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks usually use keys with the same design as your existing key, however, they can also cut copies of more complicated keys such as car or home security keys.

The most advanced technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing time and costs.

Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, have additional components that need to be programmed to work correctly. These other components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys or an embedded microchip in a few home security keys communicate with the system they're designed to be part of and require special equipment to duplicate correctly.

Key cutting is a great way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but it is important to seek professional assistance when you require it. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to find locksmiths that offer emergency services, since they can help in the event of an accidental lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting allows for the making of spare keys, which can prevent damage to original keys and reduce overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to a house or car, or any other secure location if someone is locked out.

To duplicate a key, a professional may employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it turns black, then pressing it against the sticky surface of a piece clear tape. This creates an impression. A key cutter can then use this imprint to cut it away, making a copy that is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.

Another option is to employ a pattern grinder which takes the key and grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed at the other end. 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. The machine applies a blade on the key and then cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.

A newer type of key cutting technique is also being used in some places, which is known as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to make the right dimensions the laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to a serrated blade that provides greater protection against bump keys as well as other kinds of keys for tryouts.

A key cutting service is also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a vehicle or lock. The service can't create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is crucial to select the right machine to cut keys when someone needs their keys cut . There are a variety of key cutting machines. A few factors that could influence a person's decision are the size and type of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose will also influence the quality and precision of their work.

The majority 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 with a machine that is manual. It could also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines will typically require a code that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. A code can be entered manually into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are a few tools that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. These machines are expensive, but can offer a greater variety of services.

Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually less expensive than buying individual tools separately and can be an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch an enterprise that cuts keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine that is designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access various keys and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray built-in and LED lights that indicate its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys, including dimple keys. It is also equipped with clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as as Cruciform keys.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern car keys are more than just a piece of metal. They contain transponder chip that needs to be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event that they get lost or stolen. This is why it's always a good idea to purchase a spare key, so you'll have something to turn to in the event that you're in a pinch.

When you choose to have your car key cut, it's crucial to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem similar, key cutting involves creating a new key from scratch whereas 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 more traditional method of making a spare car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is more affordable than other options, but it could be risky if the key isn't created properly or the key is not of good quality. Keys that are cut improperly can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause the key to stop working.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting machine that is specifically designed. These machines can create a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder either way. These keys are also known as sidewinders and are more effective at preventing theft than regular keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complicated and are more difficult to locate at hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you'll be able to find the correct one for your car. We can help you program the key to your car, if required and for a fraction of the cost the cost you would pay at dealers.