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The No. One Question That Everyone In Car Key Cut Should Know How To Answer
How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be costly to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are a great way to avoid expensive replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one moment, and when that happens, it can be a real hiccup in your day, causing you to be unable to access your car or home. The majority of people prefer to have extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is faster and cheaper as well as more convenient.

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

Many hardware stores or big box stores have a key cutting kiosk where you can obtain a duplicate created by skilled workers within a matter of minutes. These kiosks use a blank key that is identical to your current key. They also can make copies of keys with more complex designs, like car keys or home security keys.


Contrary to traditional key cutting which is a process that uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology for key duplication utilizes lasers to precisely replicate the unique markings of the original key on a blank key. It's called 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 to work properly. These other components, such as a transponder chip on vehicle keys or an embedded microchip in some security keys for homes, communicate with the system they're designed to fit into and require specialized equipment to duplicate properly.

When you need an extra key, cutting it is a simple and quick method to obtain one. However, you should always consult a professional. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable business with a staff of professionals who have been through rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also important to find locksmiths that provide emergency services. They can provide assistance in case of an emergency lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to make 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 home, car or any other secure location because it allows them to gain access without requiring the services of locksmith.

A professional can use either the tracing or punching method to duplicate keys. The method of tracing involves heating the tip of the key until it is black, then pressing it against the sticky side a piece clear tape. This creates an impression. A key cutter can then make use of this imprint to cut it away creating a copy that is the same dimensions and shape to the original.

Another common method is to employ a pattern grinder that takes the original key and grinds it until a flat surface remains on one end of the blade and the grooves and notches are gone at the other end. G28 makes the key easier to fit into locks. Finally, a key can be cut with punch machines. A punch machine is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. The device then pushes a blade down onto the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. These machines can be 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 utilized in certain locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys to the proper dimensions the laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys resemble an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other kinds of keys.

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

Key Cutting Equipment

It is essential to select the right machine to cut keys when someone needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. A few factors that could affect a person's choice include the type and size of the key, if they want an electric or automatic machine, and how much they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also influence the quality of their work as well as how precise it is.

The majority of key cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create a new key. This can be done manually or using a machine that is manual, but it can also be done with the use of a laser machine or code. These machines require a code to tell them where to place the notch on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from a database.

There are also a number of machines available that can cut mortice and cylinder 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, but can offer a greater variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is an alternative option. These kits are typically cheaper than purchasing tools on their own and can be a good option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.

The Futura Pro is an electronic key cutting machine designed to be user-friendly. The removable 10-inch touchscreen allows users to access various keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated and LED lights that indicate its status. Futura Pro is able to cut and decode many different keys that include dimples. It can be equipped with clamps that can be used to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform keys.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern car keys are more than a simple piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they get stolen or lost. That's why it's always wise to invest in a spare key, so you 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 difference between key cutting and duplication. Although they may appear like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying a key. Knowing what service you need will save you time and money over the long run.

Mechanical key duplication is a traditional way 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 cheaper than other options, but it is risky if the key isn't created correctly or the key is not of good quality. A poorly cut key could harm the lock and prevent the key from working.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specifically designed. These machines can create laser grooves on both the flat and round sides of the key which allows them to be inserted into the lock cylinder in either way and still function. These are commonly referred to as sidewinder keys, and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive since they're more complex and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will use an exclusive machine to duplicate your car keys using the correct blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, which means you're sure to get the right one for your vehicle. We can even help you program it to your vehicle should you require it, for only a fraction of the price that you would pay at the dealership.

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