What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys are not the kind you can simply take to a self-service kiosk at the mall to get cut. They require specialized sidewinder equipment, and are designed to fit the specific locking cylinders in your vehicle.
Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting keys can save you time, money and stress.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of creating the key for a vehicle. Professionals are usually the ones who cut keys since it requires specialized machinery to trace a key's unique shape and ensure that it is compatible with the locks. In addition, a professional can often provide a warranty for the work they do.
In the past keys for cars were easy to find. Modern technology has made them more complicated. Smart keys are found in a lot of vehicles to protect against theft. They are encrypted and come with other security measures. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to replicate or alter the key, and they can also help the owner keep an eye on who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars have a rectangular and flat form. They are thinner than sidewinder keys, and they have the same cut on both sides of the blade. These keys can fit into any lock since they have the exact cut on both sides. They can be duplicated using regular key machines found in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by luxury automobile manufacturers. The idea was to stop the theft of vehicles and the technology has been used successfully in many models. Laser cut keys have a stronger shank than traditional keys and more grooves that are carved into them. They are slightly more expensive to make, but they are also more secure.
In order to cut keys with lasers, a locksmith must first decode the existing key in the shop. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting machine to match the key's cut and then cuts the blade. This kind of key takes longer to duplicate and is more difficult to copy. It is essential that the locksmith uses an excellent manual machine, such as the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines can also create keys, which means they can create a new key from a key that was cut.
Tools
Cutting car keys is more than just a simple metal shape. It's a skill that ensures security and functionality. When keys are cut correctly, they ensure that they fit in the lock and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. Whether you need a regular mechanical key or a transponder, smart or smart key, a professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly.
To create a duplicate key the key is positioned on the side of the machine and aligned by a special cutting tool. This serves as an example. Then a blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine, where it is aligned with a key guide to keep both keys in alignment during the duplicate process. Both keys are cut simultaneously, resulting in duplicates that are identical to the original.
When choosing the right key cutter, search for one that offers several jaws that have different ways to grip the key. A two-way key cutter is best for duplicating standard key blades, whereas an option with four ways is best for laser cut keys. If you are planning to use the machine to duplicate keys for automotive use, like remote heads or transponder keys make sure there is enough space between the jaws.
The right tool can assist you in establishing the business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut almost every kind of key, with the exception of high-security blanks. This model is also suited for mobile use and is a good option for a novice who wants to begin a car key cutting business.
It can be expensive to invest in a high-end machine for cutting keys but the investment is worthwhile because you can cut and create the majority of keys with codes, including transponder and smart keys. It is also able to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. If you're looking to program and clone high-security chips you'll require a second device that is able to communicate with the onboard system of your vehicle and read the unique identification number (VIN). Getting the best equipment for your key cutting business can save you time and money in the long term.
Cutting
The key duplicator is an instrument that duplicates keys in the same shape as existing ones. The key from the original is placed on one side of machine and then aligned with the cutting tool. This is used as a template to create the new key. The blank key is then positioned on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is used in order to align the two keys while they are being cut. This produces an exact replica of the new key.
Other types of keys need specialized machinery. Standard car keys can be made using the help of a key cutter. The majority of newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that have to be programmed in order to start the engine. Transponder key cutters are required to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key, and program it for the vehicle.
In addition being able to cut various types of keys, the car key cutter must be able program the key to ensure it works with the ignition system. There are many models of car key-cutters on the market. Each has distinct characteristics. The model you choose is based on the kind of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you need at a time.
A car key cutter is an excellent tool to keep in your workshop if you want to master the art of making keys. However, you must be aware that the quality of key cutting equipment can differ greatly. It is important to buy the machine by a reputable manufacturer and has a good warranty. You should also ensure that the machine you buy can be repaired or replaced if needed.
There are three kinds of key cutting machines Semi-automatic, manual and automated. Manual Machines require you to manually move keys between the key tracer and cutter wheel They are simple to use, but they require your complete attention. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are excellent choices. Automated auto key cutting are computer-driven and can do everything for you. All you have to do is to specify what you want them to do with the software program that is included with the machine.
Programming
If the key has an electronic transponder, it needs to be programmed to work with the particular vehicle. The process differs between different makes and models however, the process generally involves inserting a working key into ignition and then leaving it for a few seconds. Then you insert the new one and leave it in place for a few minutes. This process allows the car to recognize the new key and allows it to start the vehicle. If you have a more recent model vehicle, you may be required to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complicated and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are easy to use and more accurate than manual key cutting machines. They also eliminate human errors, making it possible to cut a key accurately and quickly. These machines are perfect for those who have lost or have damaged their keys.
You can also find car key cutters who specialize in creating key fobs that can be used as replacements to be compatible with the most recent models of cars. These devices use the exact same technology used in duplication machines for car keys, but they can create up to 50 copies at once. Some models have a touchscreen for easier operation. They can also design smart keys that have a transponder to open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate regular keys made of metal and transponder keys. Some include remote heads. car key cutting price has exactly the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a normal key and a fob, that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern cars come with an anti-theft system which prohibits the use of keys other than the ones supplied by the manufacturer on the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip that communicates with the computer in the car. The car will not start if the chip is not programmed properly. In a matter of minutes, a certified auto locksmith will create a new key for your vehicle.