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How to Get a Car Key Cut

Car keys can be expensive to replace, especially if you lose your only one. Duplicate keys are the most effective way to avoid expensive replacements.

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

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at some point, and when this happens, it can be an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to gain access to your car or home. A majority of people prefer to have extra keys made instead of changing their locks. This is a quicker, cheaper and more convenient process.

Key cutting is the process of creating 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 and big box stores offer a key-cutting station where you can have an exact copy of your key made in a matter of minutes by a trained worker. These kiosks typically use keys that have the same design as your existing key, but they can also cut copies of more elaborate keys like keys for your car or home security.

The most recent technology for key replication makes use of lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings of the original key onto a blank one. This is known as key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services function by drastically reducing the time and expense involved.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems, or security access points, have additional components that must be programmed to work properly. These additional components like the transponder chip in car keys and the embedded microchip that is found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require special equipment.

If you require a spare key, cutting is a fast and simple way to get one. However you should always seek advice from a professional. Not all locksmiths are equal, and you should choose a reputable firm with a team of experts who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with different locks and locking mechanisms. It's also important to find locksmiths that offer emergency services as they will be able to help in the event of an accidental lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting can be used to make spare keys. This prevents damage to the original keys, and also reduces wear and tear. In addition, spare keys can be used if someone is locked out of their car, home or any other safe place because it allows them to gain access without the assistance of locksmith.

Professionals can employ either the punching or tracing method to duplicate keys. When using the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece of clear tape to leave an imprint. A key cutter will use this imprint to cut it away, making a copy that is identical in dimensions and shape to the original.

A pattern grinder is a different common method. It grinds the original key until it has a flat surface on one side, with grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with punch machines, which will take the key and measure the depth of each notch. The machine forces a blade on the key, cutting each notch at the required depth. The machines can be electric or manual, and can be programmed to work with various keys. This means that there is no need for a specialist.

A newer form of key cutting technique is also being used in some locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove the material from the side of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps, as are other types.

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

Key Cutting Equipment


If someone needs their keys cut, it is crucial to choose the right key cutting machine. There are many different types however, some elements that could influence a person's decision include the type of key they need and whether or not they want to use an automated or electric device, and the much money they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also affect the quality and precision of their work.

Most key cutting machines work by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut new ones. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine but it can be accomplished using a code or laser machine. These machines will typically need codes that tell the machine where to put the notches 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 that can cut mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are also available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both types of locks at the same time. They are expensive however, they offer a wider range of services.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is a different option. These kits are typically cheaper than buying tools on their own and could 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 is removable and allows users to access many keys and provides step-by-step instructions on how to duplicate and cut them. The machine also has an accessory tray that is built-in, as well as LED lights to indicate status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys including dimples. It is able to be fitted with optional clamps to handle keys for household use and Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.

Key Cutting Cost

Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece made of metal. They have transponder chips that require programming to work with your vehicle and require cutting machines that are specialized. This means they are more expensive to replace if they are lost or stolen. It is a good idea to invest in a spare key, so you'll have something to turn to if you find yourself in a bind.

It's crucial to know the difference between duplication and key cutting before you decide to have your car keys cut. While they might appear similar, duplication is the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require will save you money and time in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses a key-cutting machine to trace original contours onto a blank key. This method is less expensive than other methods, but it is risky if the key isn't created correctly or the key is not of good quality. Keys that are cut improperly can damage the lock cylinder and cause the key to stop functioning.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a special key-cutting machine. g28carkeys can cut laser grooves on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit into the lock-cylinder in any direction. These are often referred to as sidewinder keys and are more effective at protecting against theft than standard keys. They also tend to be more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will employ an exclusive machine to duplicate your car key using the correct blank for your vehicle's year and make. We have a variety of transponder key options which means you're certain to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can help you program the key to your car if you require it and at a fraction as much as you would pay at dealers.