What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys can't be cut at a self-service kiosk located in a mall. They require specialized sidewinder key-cutting equipment and are designed to fit into the lock cylinder specific to your vehicle.
Understanding the difference between duplication of car keys and cutting keys can save you time, money and stress.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of making a new key for a vehicle. Professionals are usually the ones who perform this because it requires specially designed equipment to trace a key's unique shape and ensure it is a good fit for the locks. A professional will often offer a guarantee on the work they do.
In car keys cut and programmed for cars were simple. Modern technology has made them more complex. A lot of vehicles today use smart keys that come with encryption and other security features to prevent theft. These features are intended to make it difficult for thieves to duplicate or tamper the key. They also aid owners in keeping an eye on who is using their vehicle.
The traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular form. They are smaller than a sidewinder keys and have the same cut on both sides. These keys can fit into any lock since they share the same cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated with standard key machines that are available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the early 1990s, mostly by luxury car brands. The technology was successfully implemented in many models to prevent cars being stolen. Laser cut keys have a stronger shank than traditional keys, and more grooves carved into them. They are more expensive to manufacture, but they are also more secure.
In order to cut a laser cut key, a locksmith has to first decode the key in the shop. Then, he or she sets the key cutting machine to match the cuts made in the key decoded and then cuts the blade. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate and takes longer time to copy than a regular key. It is crucial that the locksmith has a manual machine that is of high quality, such as the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines also can create keys from existing keys, i.e. they can create new keys from an existing key that has been cut.
Tools
Cutting car keys is more than simply a simple shape of metal. It's a skill that guarantees security and function. When keys are cut correctly, they'll fit inside the lock, and will not cause damage to the lock or the ignition. If you require a regular mechanical key or a smart or transponder key professional will make sure that it's cut properly.
To create duplicate keys the key is positioned on the machine's side and aligned by a special cutting tool. This serves as a template. Then the blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. There, it is aligned using key guides to ensure that both keys remain in alignment during the duplicate process. The two keys are cut simultaneously to produce duplicates that are identical to the original key.
Look for key cutters that have multiple jaws that can hold the key. A two-way cutter is the best for duplicates of standard key blades, whereas the 4-way model is ideal for cutting keys using lasers. Additionally, if you're making automotive keys like transponder keys or remote heads ensure that there is enough space between the jaws for these styles of keys.
The right tool will help you start your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut nearly any type of key, aside from high-security blanks. The model is portable and is ideal for those who wish to start their own car key cutting business.
A high-end key cutting machine is costly, but it's worth it since it will allow you to design and cut the majority of keys with code that includes transponder and smart keys. It is also able to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. To clone or program high-security chip keys, you will need a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Finding the right equipment for your key cutting business will save you time and money in the long term.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool that duplicates keys in the same form as the original keys. The original key is placed on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool, which serves as an example for the new key. The blank key is then be positioned on opposite side of the machine. A key guide is used to align the two keys as they are being cut. This results in a perfect replica of the key.
Other kinds of keys require special machinery. Keys for cars that are standard can be made with a key cutter. Most newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that have to be programmed in order to start the engine. To cut these types of keys, you require transponder key cutters capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
In addition being able cut different types of keys, car key cutters also must be able program the key in order to allow it to function with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key cutters on the market each with its own distinct set of features. The model you select depends on what type of key you're cutting and how many copies you'll need at a time.
A car key cutter is a useful tool to keep in your workshop if you wish to master the art of making keys. However, you should be aware that the quality of key cutting equipment can vary significantly. It is crucial to purchase a machine that is made by a reputable industry manufacturer and has a good warranty. You should also make sure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced should it be required.
There are three main types of key cutting machines available Manual, Semi-Automatic and Automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move the keys across the cutter wheel and tracer, they are easy to use, but they require your complete focus. The best option is the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automatic Machines are computer-driven and will do all the work for you. All you need to do is tell them what you want to do using the software included with the machine.
Programming
If a key has been fitted with transponder, it has to be programmed to the specific vehicle. The procedure varies between makes and models, but it usually involves inserting a working key into ignition and leaving it in place for a short period of time. Then insert the new key and leave it for a couple of seconds. This process will allow the car to recognize the new key and allow it to start the vehicle. You may also need to program your keyless entry remote if you have a more recent model of vehicle. This requires a sophisticated and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are easier to use and are more precise than manual machines to cut keys. They also eliminate human error, making it possible to cut a key accurately and quickly. These machines are ideal for people who have lost their keys or have damaged them.
You can also locate a car key cutter that specializes in the creation of replacement key fobs for the latest models of cars. These devices utilize the same technology as car key duplication machines, but can make up to 50 copies at once. Some models feature a touchscreen for easier operation. They can also make smart keys that include a transponder to open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate regular keys made of metal and transponder keys. Some have a remote head. A normal key has the same exact cuts on both sides. mobile key cutting near me is a combination of a normal key and a fob, that has buttons to lock and unlock the car.
Modern vehicles are equipped with an anti-theft system that blocks the use of keys that are not those provided by the manufacturer on the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the computer in the car. The car will not start in the event that the chip is not programmed correctly. In just a few minutes, a professional auto locksmith will create a new key for your car.