14 Smart Ways To Spend Leftover Car Key Cut Budget
How to Get a Car Key Cut
Car keys can be costly to replace, particularly in the event that you lose only one. Duplicate keys are the best way to avoid expensive replacements.
You can save money by having your car keys cut at a online car key cutting dealer like AutoZone instead of a dealership. There aren't all locksmith or hardware shops provide key duplication and programming.
What is Key Cutting?
Everybody loses keys at some point, and when this happens, it can be a real hiccup in your day, leaving you unable to get into your home or car. The majority of people prefer to have extra keys made rather than changing their locks. This is faster, cheaper, and more convenient.
Key cutting is the process of creating the key using a specially-designed machine. This is done in order to ensure that the key is identical to the original in both shape and function.
Many hardware stores and big box stores have the option of a key-cutting station, where you can have a copy made in minutes by a skilled worker. These kiosks typically use keys that have the same design as your existing key, but they can also make copies of more complicated keys such as keys for your car or home security.
In contrast to traditional key cutting which uses mechanical tools, the most advanced technology for special key cutting duplication utilizes lasers to precisely duplicate the key's unique markings on a blank key. This is called key by photo and is revolutionising the way that key duplication services function by drastically reducing the amount of time and cost.
Modern electronic keys, like ones used to control the security of car locks or access points, come with additional components that need to be programmed to function correctly. These additional components like the transponder chip found in car keys and the embedded microchip found in some security keys for homes communicate with their respective systems, and require specific equipment.
If you require a spare, key cutting is a simple and quick method to obtain one. However it is recommended to consult an expert. You should not settle for any locksmith. Instead, you should choose a reputable firm with a team of professionals who have received a rigorous education to deal with various locks and locking systems. It is also essential to find locksmiths who offer emergency services, as they can 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 reduces wear and tear. A spare key can also be used to gain access to your home or vehicle, or another safe location if someone has locked themselves outside.
A professional can use either the punching or tracing method to duplicate the key. With the tracing method, one end of the original key is heated until it becomes black, and then it is pressed against the sticky side of a piece clear tape to leave an impression. key cut service cutters can utilize this imprint to cut it away the original key, creating a copy which is exactly the same in shape and size to the original.
A pattern grinder is a different commonly used method. It is used to grind the original key until it has a flat surface on one end and grooves and notches removed from the other. This allows the key to fit into locks. A key can also be cut with a punching machine that measures the depth of the notch. A device then forces an edge down on the key cutting each notch until the desired depth. The machines can be either 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 being utilized in certain locations, referred to as laser cutting. Instead of grinding the keys down to the proper dimensions using a laser, it is used to remove material from the side of the key. The keys look like an elongated knife, and are more resistant to bumps and other types of keys.
A key cutting service can create replacement keys for electronic key fobs which feature an embedded chip that communicates with the immobilizer of a lock or vehicle's system. However it cannot make replacements for more sophisticated smart keys that require specialized programming that is often reserved for dealerships and car manufacturers.
Key Cutting Equipment
If someone needs their keys cut, it is essential to select the correct key cutting machine. There are a myriad of key cutting machines. Some factors that may affect a person's choice include the type and size of the key, if they want an electric or automatic machine, as well as the amount they'd like to spend. The machine they select can also affect the quality and accuracy of their work.
Most key cutting machines trace the outline of a key in order to create the new key. This can be done by hand or with a manual machine. It can also be done using the laser or a code machine. These machines typically require an identifier that tells the machine where to put the notches on the new key. The code can be manually entered into the machine or downloaded from the database.
There are a few tools that can cut both cylinder and mortice locks. They are commonly referred to as dual key cutters. They reduce the time a locksmith spends by cutting both types of locks on the same machine. These machines can be expensive however they can allow you to offer a wider range of services to customers.
Another alternative is to buy an entire kit that includes the cutting machine and tools needed to operate it. These kits are usually cheaper than purchasing the tools individually and can be a good option for those looking to venture into the business of cutting keys.
Futura Pro, an electronic key-cutting machine, has been designed to be easy to use. Its removable 10-inch touchscreen tablet allows users to access a broad variety of keys and offers steps-by-step instructions for duplicates and cutting them. Ilco says the machine has an accessory tray that is integrated as well as LED lights that show its status. The Futura Pro can decode and cut a variety of keys including dimple keys. It can also be fitted with clamps for handling flat household and Tibbe keys, as well being Cruciform keys.
Key to reducing Cost
Modern keys for cars are more than simply a piece of metal. They are equipped with a transponder chip which is programmed to your vehicle and require specialized cutting equipment. This makes them more expensive to replace in the event that they are stolen or lost. This is why it's always a good idea to invest in a spare key, so you have something to turn to in case you find yourself in a bind.
If you decide to have your car keys 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 the service you require will save your time and money in the long term.
Mechanical key duplication is a traditional method of making an extra car keys cut and programmed key and it requires the key cutting machine to trace the original contours on a blank key. This method is more affordable than other options, but it could be risky if the key isn't created correctly or the key is not of good quality. A poorly cut key could damage the lock and stop your key from functioning.
Laser key cutting is more sophisticated and requires a specialized key-cutting machine. These machines can make 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. They are commonly called sidewinder keys and are more effective in stopping theft than standard keys. These keys are also more expensive since they're more complicated and difficult to locate in hardware stores.
At AutoZone, an associate will select the correct key blank for your year, year of manufacture, and model and use an exclusive cutting machine to duplicate your previous car key. We offer a wide selection of transponder keys, so you are sure to find the one that is right for your vehicle. We can also help you program it to your vehicle should you require it, for only a fraction of the price that you would spend at an auto dealer.