Car Key Cut's History History Of Car Key Cut How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly if it is the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the most effective method to avoid costly replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses their keys at some time. This could be a major hassle as you are unable to access your car or home. Most people prefer having extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a faster, cheaper and more convenient procedure.

Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to make sure that the key matches the original both in form and function.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can get a copy created by skilled workers in a matter of minutes. These kiosks make use of a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They also can make copies of keys with more complicated designs, like home security or car keys.

The most recent technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools to precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank one. It is called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the way key duplication services work by reducing costs and time.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, contain additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly. These additional components such as the transponder chip found in keys for vehicles and the embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, which requires specialised equipment.

If you require a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method of getting one. However it is recommended to consult a professional. There are many locksmiths that are not equally, so look for a reputable company with a committed team of skilled professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also important to find locksmiths who provide emergency services. They will be able to provide assistance in case of an emergency 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 wear and tear. A spare key can be used to gain access to a home, car, or other safe location if someone has locked themselves outside.

Professionals can employ either the punching or tracing method to duplicate keys. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an imprint. Key cutters can make use of this imprint to cut around the original key, creating a copy which is identical in shape and size to the original.


A pattern grinder is a different popular method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface at one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to be fitted into locks. A key can also be cut using a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. The device then pushes a blade to the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with a variety of keys. This eliminates the need for a specialist.

Laser cutting is a modern technique for cutting keys, which is employed in specific places. Instead of grinding down the keys to create the correct dimensions the laser is used to cut away material from the sides of the key. The keys appear like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.

A key cutting service may also create replacement keys for electronic key fobs, with an embedded chip that communicates with the lock's or vehicle's immobilizer system. The service can't make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for manufacturers and car dealerships.

Key Cutting Equipment

If someone needs their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a variety of types and some of the factors that can influence a person's decision include the type of key they require and whether or not they wish to use an automatic or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The tool they select will also influence the quality of their work and how accurate it is.

The majority of key cutting machines trace the contour of a key to create the 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 will typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.

There are a few machines which can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. These are often called dual key cutters and can reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks with the same machine. These are costly, however, they offer a wider variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is a different option. how much to get car keys cut are typically less expensive than buying individual tools, and can be an excellent investment for anyone looking to start an enterprise that cuts keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The touchscreen that is removable lets users access various keys and offers step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that indicate its state. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys that include dimples. It is also equipped with optional clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys, as well for Cruciform keys.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern keys for cars are more just a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which must be programmed for your car and require specialized cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. It's always recommended to keep an extra key in case you can utilize it in the situation of a 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, key cutting involves 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 over the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional method of making an extra car key and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours of a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods of making a replacement car key however, it can be risky when the key isn't correctly made or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Insufficiently-cut key can cause damage to the lock and prevent the key from working.

Laser key cutting is more advanced and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can create an optical groove on both sides of the key, which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder facing in any way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective at preventing theft than normal keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complicated and harder to find at hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will employ a special machine to duplicate your car key by using the appropriate blank for your car's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options, so you are sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if needed, and at a fraction of much as you would pay at a dealer.