How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective option to avoid costly replacements.

The cutting of your car's key at an auto shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. But not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some time. This could be a major hassle since you're unable to get into your vehicle or go to your home. Most people prefer having extra keys made rather than replacing their locks. This is a quicker, less expensive and more convenient procedure.

Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of keys using a specific machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is in line with the original one in terms of form and function and makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property using an imitation.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained employee. These kiosks are equipped with a blank key that is the same as your existing key. They also can make copies of keys that have more intricate designs, such as home security or car keys.

Unlike traditional key cutting, which relies on mechanical tools the most advanced technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the original key's unique markings onto a blank piece of. This is referred to as key by photo and is changing the way key duplication services work by significantly reducing the time and cost involved.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points have additional components that must 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 fit into, and they require specialised equipment to duplicate correctly.

Key cutting is a great way to get an extra key quickly and easily, however you should always seek professional help when you need one. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should select a reputable company with a team of experts who have received a rigorous education in dealing with various locks and locking systems. key cutting cost is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They will be able to provide assistance in case of a lockout accident.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This can prevent damage to the original keys and decreases wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used if someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or any other secure location as it can allow the person to gain entry without the assistance of locksmith.

Professionals can employ either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then pressed against the sticky side of the clear tape to leave an imprint. This imprint can be used by key cutters to create a replica of the original that is identical in size and shape.

A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It grinds the original key until it has a smooth surface at one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to insert into locks. In addition, a key can be cut using punch machines, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. These machines are manual or electric and can be programmed to work with different keys. This reduces the requirement for an expert.

A newer kind of key cutting technique is also being utilized in a few locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding down keys to make the right dimensions, a laser is used to remove material from the sides of the key. This results in keys that look like an asymmetrical blade which offers more protection against bump keys and other types of tryout keys.

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

Key Cutting Equipment

If someone needs their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are many types of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the size and type of the key, if they want an electric or automatic machine, and how much they want spend. The tool they select will also affect the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.

The majority of key cutting machines work by tracing the profile of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done manually or with a machine that is manual. It can also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines require a code to tell them where to place 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 a few tools that cut both cylinder and mortice locks. Dual key cutters are available and can help locksmiths save time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. They are expensive but can offer a greater variety of services.

Another option is to purchase a set that contains the cutting machine as well as the tools needed to operate it. These kits are typically less expensive than buying the tools individually and are an excellent investment for someone who wants to start an enterprise that cuts keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, is designed to be simple to use. 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 claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys that include dimple keys. It can also be fitted with optional clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys as well being Cruciform keys.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. Learn Even more Here contain transponder chip that is programmed to your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. They are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or taken. It is a good idea to invest in a spare key, so you have something to go to in the event that you're stuck.

If you decide to have your car keys cut, it's important to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear identical, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing the service you require will save your time and money in the long run.


Mechanical key duplication, which is a more traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, requires the key-cutting machine to trace the original contours onto the blank key. This method is more affordable than other methods, but it can be risky when the key isn't created properly or the key is not of good quality. Insufficiently-cut key can damage the lock and stop your key from working.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can make an optical groove on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in stopping theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key blank for your year, make and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your old car key. We have a variety of transponder keys, so you're sure to find the right one for your vehicle. We can also help you connect it to your car should you require it, for less than the price that you would pay at the dealership.