- Cheap & Fast Locksmith
- Oct 23
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 25
The Most Common Mistakes People Make When Duplicating Keys (and How to Avoid Them)
Duplicating keys sounds like a simple task — you take your original key to a locksmith, get a copy made, and that’s it, right? Unfortunately, it’s not always that straightforward. Many people in Kissimmee learn the hard way that one small mistake during the duplication process can lead to bigger problems — like lock damage, poor key fitting, or even security risks.
Whether you’re duplicating a house key, a business key, or your car key, precision and professionalism matter more than most people realize. That’s why choosing a trusted local expert for key duplication services Kissimmee FL is the smartest decision you can make.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most common key duplication mistakes people make — and how to avoid them with help from Cheap & Fast Locksmith, your reliable Locksmith Kissimmee team.
1. Choosing a Non-Professional or Unlicensed Key Cutter
One of the biggest mistakes people make is trusting anyone with a key machine to duplicate their keys. Big box stores or unlicensed vendors often use outdated or imprecise machines. The result? A key that doesn’t fit properly, jams your lock, or damages the keyway over time.
Professional locksmiths, on the other hand, have the training, tools, and experience to ensure every duplicate key matches your original perfectly.
When you use key duplication services Kissimmee FL from Cheap & Fast Locksmith, your key is cut using precision-calibrated machines that ensure smooth operation every time. Plus, licensed locksmiths follow all security and legal guidelines — protecting your home or car from unauthorized key copies.
2. Duplicating a Worn or Damaged Key
This is a mistake that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. If your original key is bent, worn, or has slight damage, duplicating it only transfers those imperfections to the new copy. Over time, these flaws accumulate, leading to keys that stick, break, or simply don’t turn the lock anymore.
Instead of duplicating a worn key, visit a Locksmith Kissimmee expert who can assess the condition of your key and, if necessary, create a new one based on the original lock pattern.
Professional locksmiths like Cheap & Fast Locksmith can even cut a brand-new key directly from your lock — not just copy an old, damaged one — ensuring it works like new.
3. Using Self-Service Machines or Kiosks
Self-service key duplication machines might seem convenient, but they’re far from reliable. These kiosks rely on basic scanning and often lack the accuracy of a skilled technician.
They can’t tell if your key is slightly warped, they don’t verify alignment, and they can’t detect small cuts or grooves that are essential for your lock to function properly.
While it might save a few dollars upfront, the risk of poor-quality copies (or lock damage) isn’t worth it. A professional key duplication service in Kissimmee FL provides not just a key, but peace of mind — knowing your duplicate will work seamlessly every time.
4. Ignoring Specialty or High-Security Keys
Not all keys are created equal. Some homes, commercial properties, and vehicles use high-security or restricted keys that require specialized duplication equipment and authorization.
Many people make the mistake of taking such keys to a regular hardware store, only to find the duplicate doesn’t work — or worse, it voids their security system’s warranty.
When it comes to car keys, smart keys, or transponder chips, only a certified Car Locksmith Kissimmee FL should handle the duplication.
Cheap & Fast Locksmith has the tools and technology to duplicate high-security and automotive keys safely and legally — including programming for smart car keys and fobs. So whether you need a car key replacement Kissimmee FL or a spare for your office, you’ll get precision and reliability every time.
5. Forgetting to Test the Duplicate Immediately
Another common mistake is walking away with a freshly cut key and assuming it works — without testing it. It’s essential to test your duplicate on the spot before you leave the locksmith shop.
A professional locksmith will always encourage you to try the new key to ensure it fits perfectly, turns smoothly, and locks or unlocks without hesitation.
At Cheap & Fast Locksmith, technicians double-check every key they make — saving you from the frustration of finding out your duplicate doesn’t work when you’re locked out at night.
6. Not Keeping Track of Authorized Copies
Security is about control — and losing track of who has your key copies is one of the most overlooked risks. Many homeowners and business owners hand out duplicates without maintaining a record, which can lead to unauthorized access.
When using key duplication services Kissimmee FL, always keep a list of who has a copy and where it’s stored. For businesses, consider using restricted key systems that can only be duplicated by authorized personnel.
Your local Locksmith Kissimmee can help set up a secure key control plan, ensuring you stay in charge of your property’s access at all times.
7. Assuming All Locksmiths Are the Same
Not all locksmiths provide the same level of expertise. Some may specialize in residential locks, while others focus on automotive systems or commercial-grade security.
Choosing the right professional matters — especially when it comes to vehicles. Modern cars often use laser-cut or chip-based keys that require advanced tools and software.
Working with a specialized Automotive Locksmith Kissimmee FL ensures your car key duplicates are programmed correctly and function exactly like your original. Attempting to duplicate such keys with untrained technicians can result in costly errors or even damage to your vehicle’s ignition system.
Cheap & Fast Locksmith offers both traditional and high-tech duplication services for homes, offices, and vehicles — ensuring every customer gets accurate, dependable results.
8. Ignoring the Importance of Regular Key Maintenance
Even after you get a duplicate key, it’s important to take care of both your original and your copy. Exposure to moisture, heat, or rough handling can wear down your key faster than expected.
To keep your locks working smoothly:
Avoid using keys to open bottles, boxes, or packages.
Clean your keys periodically to remove dirt or rust.
If your key feels rough or gets stuck, get it inspected before it breaks.
Local experts like Cheap & Fast Locksmith don’t just duplicate keys — they also offer key inspection and lock maintenance to help extend the lifespan of your entire locking system.
9. Not Having a Spare Made in Advance
Waiting until you lose your last key is one of the costliest mistakes you can make. Emergency key replacements — especially for vehicles or smart locks — can be far more expensive than getting a spare in advance.
By using key duplication services Kissimmee FL proactively, you can avoid being stranded or locked out at inconvenient times.
Whether it’s your home, office, or car, having a backup key made by a trusted Car Locksmith Kissimmee FL can save you money, time, and stress.
10. Overlooking Local, Trusted Locksmiths
The best key duplication services come from local professionals who care about their community’s safety. Choosing a local locksmith means faster service, personalized care, and fair pricing.
Cheap & Fast Locksmith isn’t just another locksmith — it’s a trusted name in Kissimmee known for providing high-quality key duplication, lock repair, and emergency lockout services.
As your reliable Locksmith Kissimmee, they use advanced key cutting and programming tools to ensure every duplicate is perfect. Plus, their customer-first approach guarantees honesty, transparency, and peace of mind — whether you need spare house keys, business keys, or a car key replacement Kissimmee FL.
Final Thoughts
Key duplication might seem like a simple task, but small mistakes can lead to big inconveniences — from jammed locks to unexpected lockouts. The good news? Every one of these issues is avoidable when you choose an experienced, certified professional.
By trusting Cheap & Fast Locksmith, you get more than just a new key — you get accuracy, reliability, and expert service from the most dependable locksmith in Kissimmee.
So the next time you need key duplication services Kissimmee FL, skip the kiosks and call the professionals who care about your safety, your locks, and your peace of mind.
