What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys can't be cut at a self-service kiosk in the mall. They require specialized sidewinder key cutting equipment and are specifically designed to work in the specific lock cylinder of your car.
Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting car keys can save you money, time and stress.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of making an entirely new key for a car. Professionals are typically the ones who cut keys since it requires specialized machinery to create a unique shape and ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. A professional will usually provide a warranty on the work they do.
In the past keys for cars were easy to find. Modern technology has made them more complex. A lot of vehicles today use smart keys that contain encryption as well as other security features to guard against theft. These features are intended to make it difficult for thieves to duplicate or modify the key. They also aid owners in keeping the track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars are rectangular and flat design. They are thinner than the sidewinder key and have the same cut on both sides. Because they have the same cut on both sides, these types of keys can be used in the lock in any way. They can be duplicated using regular key machines found in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were first introduced in the 1990s, mainly by luxury car manufacturers. The technology was successfully incorporated in many models to prevent theft of cars. Laser cut relevant internet page have a thicker shank than traditional keys, and more grooves that are carved into them. They are more expensive to make, but are also more secure.
To cut a key with a laser, the locksmith must first decode an existing key in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting machine to match the key's cuts and then cuts the blade. This kind of key takes longer to duplicate and is also more difficult to copy. It is crucial that the locksmith has a manual machine of high quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines can also make keys from existing ones, i.e. they can create new keys using an existing key that has been cut.
Tools
Cutting car keys is more than just a simple metal shape. It's a technique that ensures security and functionality. Properly cut keys guarantee that they will fit into the lock and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. Whether you need a regular mechanical key or a smart or transponder key, a professional will make sure that it's cut correctly.
To create a new key, an original one is positioned on the duplicator's side and aligned with a specialized cutting tool to serve as an outline for the new key. A blank key is placed on the other side of the machine and aligned to a key guide. This will keep both keys in alignment during duplication. Both keys are then cut at the same time to create duplicates that match the original key.
Find key cutters with multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. A two-way key cutter is ideal to duplicate traditional key blades, while the 4-way model is ideal for laser cut keys. Also, if you'll be using the machine to make automotive keys like transponder or remote head keys make sure there's enough space between the jaws for these kinds of keys.
The right tool can assist you in establishing your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut almost every kind of key, aside from high-security blanks. This model is also suited for use on the move and is a good choice for a beginner who wants to begin a car key cutting business.
Investing in a high-end key cutting machine can be costly, but it's worth the cost since it will allow you to create and cut keys using code, including smart and transponder keys. It's also great for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other key chips. If you're planning to program and clone high-security chips however, you'll need an additional device that is able to communicate with the vehicle's onboard system and identify the unique identification number (VIN). The right equipment will save you time and money.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a device that cuts new keys to fit the shape of existing ones. The key from the original is placed on one side of the machine and aligned to the cutting tool. This serves as a template for the new key. The blank key is then be positioned on opposite side of machine. A key guide is employed to ensure that the two keys as they are being cut. This results in an exact replica of the new key.
While car keys that are standard can be cut with a key cutter, different kinds of keys require special machines. The majority of newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that have to be programmed to start the engine. To cut these kinds of keys, you require a transponder key cutter capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
A car key cutter should be able not only to cut various types of keys but also to program them to work with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key-cutters available on the market. Each has distinct characteristics. The model you pick will depend on the kind of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you'll need at a time.
A car key cutter is a great tool to have in your workshop if you wish to learn how to create keys. However, you must be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can differ greatly. It is essential to purchase a machine that is made by a reputable manufacturer and has a good warranty. It is important to make sure that the machine you purchase can be easily repaired or replaced if needed.
There are 3 main kinds of key cutting machines available Manual, Semi-Automatic and Automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move the keys between the cutter wheel and tracer They are easy to use, but they require your full attention. A good choice would be the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated Machines are computer-driven and can do everything for you. All you need to do is to specify what you want them to do with the software that is included with the machine.
Programming
If a key is equipped with transponder, it has to be programmed to the specific vehicle. The procedure differs between models and makes and models, but generally involves inserting the key that is currently in use into ignition and leaving it for a short period of time. Then you insert the new one and leave it in place for a few minutes. This process will allow the car to recognize the new key and allows it to start the car. If you have a more recent model car, you may be required to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.
Retailers are adding more automobile key duplication machines into their stores because customers demand them. They are easy to use and are more precise than manual machines for cutting keys. They eliminate human error and allow for accurate and quick key cutting. These machines are perfect for those who have lost or have damaged keys.
You can also find a car key cutter that specializes in making replacement keys for the latest models of cars. These devices employ the same technology as the car key duplication machines, but can make up to 50 copies at a time. Some models even have touchscreen displays for more efficient operation. They can also design smart keys that have a transponder to open doors automatically.
A car key cutter is able to duplicate both metal keys and transponder cards. Some keys also include a remote head. A normal key has the exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is an amalgamation of a regular key and a fob, that has buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern vehicles are equipped with an anti-theft system which prevents the use of keys that are not those provided by the manufacturer inside the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip for communication with the car's computers. The car won't start in the event that the chip is not properly programmed. In just a few minutes, a certified auto locksmith will program a new key for your car.