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5 Laws Everybody In Car Key Cut Should Know
How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace your car keys, especially in the case of 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 a dealership. However, not all locksmith or hardware shops offer key duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everyone loses their keys at some point. This can be a huge inconvenience as you are unable to get into your vehicle or go to your home. Most people choose to have spare keys cut instead of changing their locks entirely. This is a quicker and less expensive process.

Key cutting is a technique that involves duplicating the original key onto the blank key with a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the key is identical to the original both in shape and function.

key cutting car and big box stores offer 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 worker. The kiosks typically make use of keys with the same style as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more complicated keys such as car or home security keys.

In contrast to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the latest technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the original key's unique markings on a blank key. It's called key-by-photo and is revolutionizing the method of key duplication by reducing the cost and time.

Modern electronic keys, like those used to 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 the transponder chip that is found in vehicle keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some home security key communicate with their respective systems, requiring specialised equipment.

Key cutting can be an excellent way to obtain 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 firm with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. You should also look for locksmiths who provide emergency services. They can help you out in the event of an emergency lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to create spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and wear and tear. Additionally, a spare can be used in the event that someone has locked themselves out of their home, car or other secure area since it will allow the person to gain entry without the assistance of locksmith.

Professionals can employ either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. With 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 the clear tape to leave an imprint. A key cutter will use this imprint to cut away the original key, creating a copy which is exactly the same in size and shape to the original.

A pattern grinder is another commonly used method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a smooth surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Keys can also be cut using punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. A device then forces a blade down onto the key and cuts each notch to the required depth. The machines can be either electric or manual and can be programmed to work with different keys, eliminating the need for an expert to be present.

Laser cutting is a newer technique for cutting keys, which is employed in a few areas. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions the laser 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 and other kinds of keys.

A key cutting service is also able to design replacement keys for electronic fobs. Key fobs with an embedded chip which communicates with the immobilizer system of a car or locks. However it isn't capable of creating replacements for more sophisticated smart keys, which require specialized programming usually reserved for dealerships or car manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

If a person wants to have their keys cut, it's essential to select the correct key cutting machine. 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, if they want an automatic or electric machine, as well as the amount they want spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality and precision of their work.


The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It could also be done using a laser or code machine. These machines will typically need a code that tells the machine where to place the notches 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 mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can cut locksmiths' time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. These are costly, but can offer a greater variety of services.

Another alternative is to buy a set that contains the cutting machine and the tools required to operate it. These kits are typically cheaper than buying tools on their own and could 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 touchscreen is removable and allows users to access a variety of keys, and provides step-bystep instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco states that the machine has an accessory tray built-in as well as LED lights that indicate its current status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It is equipped with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys as well as cruciform key.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern car keys are more than just a piece made of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which require programming to work with your car and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they get stolen or lost. It's always a good idea to have an extra key in case you can use it in the situation of a lockout.

If you decide to have your car key cut, it's important to understand the distinction between key cutting and duplication. While they may seem similar, key cutting involves making a new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which key cutting services require can help you save money and time in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is the more traditional way of making a spare car key and it involves using an instrument to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is more affordable than others, but is risky if the key isn't created properly or the blank is of poor quality. Insufficiently-cut keys can damage the lock cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specifically designed. These machines can cut a laser groove both on the flat side of the key and permit it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These keys are also referred to as sidewinder and are more effective at stopping theft than regular keys. They are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to find in hardware stores.

At AutoZone our associates will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, make and model, and then utilize an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide 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 required and at a fraction as price as you would at a dealer.

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