Ten Things You Learned In Kindergarden That Will Help You With Car Key Cut

Ten Things You Learned In Kindergarden That Will Help You With Car Key Cut

How to Get a Car Key Cut

It can be costly to replace your car keys, particularly when it's the only one you have. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.

Having  car key cutting near me  cut at a car repair shop like AutoZone will save you money over the dealership. However, not all locksmith or hardware establishments offer key duplication and programming services.

What is Key Cutting?

Everybody loses keys at one time, and when this occurs, it could be a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to access your home or car. Most people choose to have spare keys cut rather than change their locks completely. This is a faster and less expensive procedure.

Key cutting is a process that involves copying the original key onto the blank key using a specialised machine. This is done to ensure that the new key matches the original in both design and function and makes it impossible for someone else to unlock your property using an imitation.

Many hardware stores and big box stores have a key-cutting station where you can get a copy made in minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks typically use keys with the same style as your current key, however, they can also make copies of more elaborate keys, such as keys for home or car security.

The latest technology in key replication uses lasers instead of mechanical tools that can precisely duplicate the unique markings on the original key onto a blank. This is known as key-by-photo, and is revolutionizing the way key duplication services work by reducing the cost and time.

Modern electronic keys that control car lock systems or security access points, contain additional components which must be programmed in order to function properly. These additional components, such as the transponder chip found in car keys and the embedded microchip in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require specialised equipment.

If you require a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick way to get one. However you should always seek advice from an expert. Not all locksmiths are equally, so choose a reputable firm with a committed team of experts who have been through rigorous training to deal with different locks and locking mechanisms. It is also important to find locksmiths who provide emergency services. They can provide assistance in case of an emergency lockout.

Key Cutting Techniques

Key cutting permits the creation of spare keys, which will prevent damage to original keys and reduce the overall wear and wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to your home or car, or any other safe place if a person is locked out.

A professional can utilize either the tracing or punching method to duplicate a key. The tracing method involves heating the end of the key until it is black, and then pressing it against the sticky surface of an uncut piece of tape. This leaves an imprint. This imprint can be utilized by a key cutter to make a copy of the original identical to its size and shape.

Another common method is to use a pattern grinder, which takes the key and then grinds it until a smooth surface remains on one side of the blade, and the grooves and notches are gone on the other side. This allows for easier inserting the key into locks. Additionally, keys can be cut with a punch machine, which is able to take the key and determines the depth of each notch. A device then presses an edge down on the key and cuts each notch to the desired depth. These machines are either electric or manual and can be programmed for different keys, reducing the requirement for a specialist to be present.



Laser cutting is a newer method of cutting keys that is used in certain locations. Instead of grinding down keys to get the right dimensions, a laser is used to remove the material from the sides of the key. The keys look like a serrated knife, and are more resistant to bump keys and other types of keys.

Key cutting services can also make replacement keys for electronic key fobs that have an embedded chip that communicates with a vehicle's or lock's immobilizer system. The service can't make replacement keys for smarter keys that require special programming, which is typically reserved for car dealerships and manufacturers.

Key Cutting Equipment

It is important to choose the correct key-cutting machine for a person needs their keys cut. There are many different types however, some elements that can influence a person's decision include the type of key they need, whether or not they wish to use an automated or electric machine, and how much money they'd like to spend. The machine they choose can also influence the quality of their work and how precise it is.

Most key cutting machines trace the profile of a key in order to create an entirely new key. This can be done manually or using a manual machine. It can also be done with a laser or a code machine. These machines typically require a code that tells the machine where to place the notches on the new key. A code can be manually entered into the machine, or it can be downloaded from the database.

There are also a range of machines available that can cut both mortice and cylinder locks. These are sometimes referred to as dual key cutters. They help locksmiths save time by allowing them to cut both types of locks on the same machine. They are expensive however, they offer a wider variety of services.

A kit that includes the machine as well as the tools required to operate it is another option. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and could be a good option for those looking to get into the business of cutting keys.

Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, was designed to be simple to use.  cutting car key -inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a large range of keys and provides step-by-step instructions for duplicating and cutting them. The machine also has a built-in accessory tray and LED lights to indicate status, according to Ilco. Futura Pro is able to decode and cut many different keys, including dimples. It also comes with clamps for handling the flat household keys and Tibbe keys as well being cruciform keys.

Key to reducing Cost

Modern keys for cars are more than just a piece of metal. They are equipped with transponder chips which must be programmed to work with your vehicle and require special cutting equipment. They are more costly to replace in the event they are lost or taken.  cutting car key 's always recommended to keep an extra key in case you can use it in the case of an emergency lockout.

When you choose to have your car key cut, it's crucial to understand the difference between key cutting and duplication. Though they might seem similar, key cutting involves creating a brand new key from scratch, while duplication is simply copying an existing key. Knowing which service you need will save you time and money in the long run.

Mechanical key duplication, a traditional method of creating spare keys for cars, involves using the key-cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is cheaper than other methods for making an alternative car key however it could be risky if the key isn't properly created or the key blank isn't high-quality. If the key is not cut properly, it could harm the lock and prevent the key from working.

Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialist key-cutting machine. These machines can cut a laser groove both on the flat side of the key, allowing it to fit inside the lock-cylinder either way. These are often called sidewinder keys and are more effective in protecting against theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive due to the fact that they are more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.

At AutoZone the associate will pick the appropriate key blank for your year, year of manufacture and model, and then use a special cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder key options so you're sure to find the perfect one for your vehicle. We can assist you with programming the key to your car if you require it, and at a fraction of the cost you would pay at dealers.