14 Savvy Ways To Spend Leftover Car Key Cut Budget How to Get a Car Key Cut

It can be costly to replace your car keys, especially in the case of only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best method to avoid costly replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some point. This can be a major hassle since you're unable to get into your vehicle or go to your home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks completely. This is a faster, less expensive and more convenient process.

Key cutting is the process of creating the key using a specially-designed 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 have a key-cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate made by trained employees in a matter of minutes. These kiosks typically use keys with the same design as your existing key, however, they can also cut copies of more intricate 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. This is known as key-by-photo, and revolutionizes the way key duplication services work by reducing costs and time.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points have additional components which must be programmed properly. These additional components like the transponder chip found in car keys and the embedded microchip in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, which requires specific equipment.

Key cutting is the best way to get a spare key quickly and easily, but you should always seek professional help when you need one. Not all locksmiths are created equal, and you should seek out a reputable business with a team of experts who have been through rigorous training to deal with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also essential to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, since they can provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys and decreases wear and tear. A spare key can also be used when someone has locked themselves out of their car, home or any other secure location as it can allow the person to gain entry without requiring the services of locksmith.

To make a duplicate key, a professional may employ either the tracing method or punch method of duplication. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an impression. A key cutter will use this imprint to cut it away the original key, creating a copy which is exactly the same in dimensions and shape to the original.

Another option is to make use of a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it down until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches are removed at the other end. This allows the key to insert into locks. Keys can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then presses a blade to the key, cutting each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either manual or electric, and can be programmed to work with different keys, reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.

A newer type of key cutting technique is being used in some locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down keys to make the right dimensions the laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. This results in the keys looking similar to a serrated blade which offers more protection against bump keys and other kinds of test keys.


Key cutting services are also able to create replacement keys for electronic fobs. These key fobs have an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or lock. The service is not able to create replacements for smarter keys that require special programming, which is normally reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.

Key Cutting Equipment

If a person wants to have their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are a variety of types however, some elements that could influence a person's decision include the kind of key they require and whether or not they prefer to use an automatic or electric machine, and how much money they want to spend. car key cutting cost of machine they select will also influence the quality and accuracy of their work.

Most key cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create an entirely new key. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It could also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to inform them where to place the key's notch. The code can either be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are a variety of machines available that can cut mortice as well as cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks simultaneously. automotive key cutting are expensive, however, they offer a wider variety of services.

Another option is to purchase an entire kit that includes the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than buying the tools individually and can be a good investment for someone who wants to venture into the business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be easy to use. The touchscreen that is removable allows users to access a variety of keys, and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. It also comes with an accessory tray built-in and LED lights to indicate status, according Ilco. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It is also equipped with clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform keys.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern car keys are more than simply a piece of metal. They have a transponder chip that must be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have a spare key in case you can access it in the event of a lockout.

If you're considering having your car keys cut, it is important to know the distinction between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear similar, key cutting is creating a new key from scratch whereas duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of making spare keys for cars, requires the key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is less expensive than others, but is risky if the key isn't made properly or the key is not of good quality. A poorly cut key could cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can make an optical groove on the flat side of the key and allow it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at preventing theft than conventional keys. They are also more expensive because they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key using the appropriate blank for your car's year and make. 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 assist you in programming the key to your car if you require it and at a fraction as the cost you would pay at dealers.