The 3 Largest Disasters In Car Key Cut The Car Key Cut's 3 Biggest Disasters In History

The 3 Largest Disasters In Car Key Cut The Car Key Cut's 3 Biggest Disasters In History

How to Get a Car Key Cut

It is costly to replace your car keys, particularly in the case of only one you have. The possession of duplicate keys is the best protection against expensive replacements.

You can save money by cutting your car keys at an automotive retailer like AutoZone instead of an auto dealer. Not all locksmith or hardware stores offer key duplication and programming.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this occurs, it can cause an extremely stressful day, leaving you unable to get into your car or home. Many people opt to have spare keys cut rather than changing their locks completely. This process is faster and less expensive, as well as more efficient.

Key cutting is the process of making duplicates of the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done to ensure that the new key is identical to the original in both shape and function which makes it impossible for someone other than you to gain access to your property with an imitation.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting kiosk that you can have a copy created by skilled workers in just a few minutes. These kiosks typically use keys that have the same style as your current key, however, they can also cut copies of more complicated keys like keys for your car or home security.

Contrary to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology in key duplication makes use of lasers to precisely replicate the key's unique markings onto a blank piece of. It is called key-by-photo and revolutionizes the method of key duplication by reducing time and costs.

Modern electronic keys, such as keys used to control car lock systems, or security access points, come with additional components that must be programmed in order to function correctly.  car keys cut and programmed , such as the transponder chip in car keys and the embedded microchip found 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 an expert. It is not advisable to choose any locksmith. Instead, choose a reputable business with a team of experts who have undergone rigorous training in dealing with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to locate locksmiths who offer emergency services, as they can provide assistance in the event of an accidental lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys, which will prevent damage to keys that were originally made and also reduce the overall wear and wear and. A spare key can also be used to gain access to your home or vehicle, or another safe location if someone has locked themselves out.

To make a duplicate key, a professional can choose between the tracing or punch method of duplication. The tracing method is one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an impression. This impression can be utilized by a key cutter to make an exact copy of the original that is exactly the same size and shape.

Another method is to make use of a pattern grinder that takes the original key and then grinds it until a flat surface remains on one side of the blade. The grooves and notches disappear at the other end. This allows you to insert the key into locks. A key can also be cut with punching machines that measure the depth of the notch. The machine applies an edge onto the key, cutting each notch to the required depth. The machines can be manual or electric and can be programmed to work with various keys. This reduces the need for an expert.

A newer kind of key cutting technique is being utilized in a few locations, and is referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding keys to make 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 kinds of keys.

A key cutting service is 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 locks. The service cannot create replacement keys for smarter keys that require specialized programming, which is usually reserved for manufacturers and dealerships of cars.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is crucial to select the right machine to cut keys when someone needs their keys cut. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. The factors that can influence a person's decision include the size and type of the key, whether they prefer an electric or automatic machine, and the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also impact the quality of their work and the accuracy of it.

The majority of key cutting machines operate by tracing the shape of a key in order to cut another one. 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 put the notch on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from databases.

There are also a range of machines available that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. Dual key cutters are available and can save locksmiths time by cutting both locks at the same time. They can be expensive however they also make it possible to offer an array of services to customers.

A kit that includes the machine along with the tools needed to operate it is another option. These kits are often less expensive than purchasing individual tools and are an excellent investment for anyone planning to launch a business cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use. Its touchscreen tablet that is removable allows users to access a broad range of keys, and provides step-by-step directions for duplicates and cutting them. Ilco claims that the machine comes with an integrated accessory tray and LED lights that show its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a wide range of keys including dimple keys. It is equipped with clamps for handling flat household keys as well as Tibbe keys, as well as cruciform key.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern car keys are much more than a mere piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which must be programmed for your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. This means they are more expensive to replace in the event that they are lost or stolen. That's why it's always wise to have an extra key so that you have something to turn to if you're in a bind.


It's important to know the distinction between duplication and key cutting before you decide to get your car keys cut. While they may seem like they are similar, duplication is actually the process of copying an existing key. Knowing which one you require will save you time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, a more traditional method of making spare keys for cars, uses an instrument for cutting keys to trace the original contours onto a blank key. This process is cheaper than other methods of making an alternative car key however it could be risky when the key isn't correctly made or the key blank isn't made of high-quality. Keys that are cut improperly can cause damage to the lock's cylinder and cause your key to stop functioning.

Laser key cutting requires a key-cutting tool that is specifically designed. These machines can cut laser grooves on both sides of the key, which allows them to fit into the lock cylinder facing in any way and still function. These keys are also known as sidewinder and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. They are also more expensive than standard keys due to the fact that they are more complex and harder to find at hardware stores.

AutoZone's associates will use a special machine to duplicate your car keys using the right blank for your vehicle's year, make and model. We have a broad selection of transponder key options, so you are sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can even help you program it to your vehicle in case you need to, at only a fraction of the price that you would spend at the dealership.