What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys aren't cut at a self-service kiosk in the mall. They require special sidewinder equipment and are specifically designed to match the specific locking cylinders in your car.
Understanding the difference between car key duplication and cutting your car keys can save you money, time and stress in the near future.
Keys
The cutting of a car key is used to create a brand new car key. Professionals are usually the ones who perform this, as it takes special equipment to create a unique shape and ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. A professional will usually offer a guarantee for the work they perform.
In the past keys for cars were easy to find. Modern technology has made them more complex. Smart keys are found in a lot of vehicles to protect against theft. They come with encryption and other security measures. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or alter the keys and can aid the owner in keeping an eye on who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars are flat and have a rectangular form. They are smaller than a sidewinder keys and feature the same cut on both sides. These keys can fit in any lock because they share the same cut on both sides. They can be duplicated with standard key machines that are available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, and were primarily used by luxury car brands. The idea was to stop cars from being stolen, and the technology has been successfully deployed in many models. Laser cut keys have a thicker shank than traditional keys and more grooves carved into the keys. They are a bit more expensive to produce, but they are also more secure.
To cut a key with a laser the locksmith must first decode a key that is already in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key cutting machine to match the key's cut and then cuts the blade. This type of key is harder to duplicate and is also more difficult to copy. It is essential that the locksmith is equipped with a high-quality manual machine, like the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines can also create keys from existing keys, i.e. they can create new keys using an existing key that has been cut.
Tools
Car key cutting is more than just shaping a piece of metal; it's an art that ensures security, functionality and durability. Correctly cut keys ensure that they fit into the lock and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. A professional will ensure the key is cut correctly, no matter if it's a key made of metal or transponder or smart keys.
To create a duplicate key, a key is placed on the side of the machine and aligned by a special cutting tool. This serves as an outline. A blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine, aligned to the key guide. This will keep both keys in line during duplication. The two keys are cut at the same time to create duplicates that match the original key.
Find key cutters that have multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. A two-way cutter is the best to duplicate standard key blades, whereas an option with four ways is best for cutting keys using lasers. Additionally, if you're using the machine to make keys for automobiles, such as transponder keys or remote heads, make sure that there's enough space between the jaws to accommodate these types of key.
The right tool will aid you in starting your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut nearly every type of key aside from high-security blanks. This model is mobile and ideal for those looking to start their own car key cutting business.
It's expensive to invest in a premium machine for cutting keys but the investment is worthwhile because you can cut and create most keys using codes, including transponder and smart keys. It's also good for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other key chips. To program or clone high-security chip keys, you'll require a device that is able to communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. The right equipment can save you time and money.
Cutting
The key duplicator is an instrument that duplicates keys in the same form as the original ones. The key that was originally used is placed on one side of machine and aligned to the cutting tool. This serves as a template for the new key. The blank key will be positioned on opposite side of machine. A key guide is used to keep the two keys aligned while they are cut, resulting in a perfectly duplicated new key.
Different types of keys require specialized machinery. Standard car keys can be made using the use of a key cutter. Most newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that need to be programmed in order to start the engine. To cut these kinds of keys, you will require a transponder key cutter that can trace the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
A car key cutter needs to be able not only to cut different kinds of keys, but also program them to work with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key cutters available on the market. Each one has its own unique features. The model you pick depends on the type of key you are cutting and the number of keys you need to copy at one time.
If you're looking to learn how to make your own keys using a car key cutter, it is a useful tool in your workshop. But, be aware that the quality of key cutting equipment can differ significantly. It is important to buy the machine by a reputable industry manufacturer and has a good warranty. You should also ensure that the machine you buy can be repaired or replaced if necessary.
There are three main types of key cutting machines that are available: Manual, Semi-Automatic and Automatic. Manual machines require the user to manually move keys around the key tracer wheel as well as the cutter wheel. They are simple to operate but require your full attention. A good choice would be the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated machines are computer-driven and will complete all the work for you. All you have to do is tell them what you want to accomplish by using the software included with the machine.
Programming
If the key is equipped with a transponder it must be programmed to work with the specific car. The process varies between models and makes, but usually involves inserting the original key into ignition and leaving it for a few moments. Then, insert the new key and leave it for a couple of seconds. This allows the computer in the car to recognize the key and start the car. If you have a newer model car, you may also have to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a sophisticated and expensive device.
Retailers are increasingly adding automobile key duplication machines into their stores because customers want them. These machines are easy to operate and are more accurate than manual key cutting machines. They remove human error and permit rapid and precise key cutting. These machines are ideal for people who have lost their keys or have damaged them.
keys cut can also locate a car key cutter that specializes in creating replacement key fobs for the latest models of automobiles. These devices use the same technology as car key duplication machines, but they can make up 50 copies at a time. Some models come with touchscreens for comfortable operation. They can also help you design smart keys that have transponder technology and open doors automatically.
A car key cutter is able to duplicate both metal keys and transponder cards. Some have a remote. A regular key has exactly the same cut on both sides. A remote head is the combination of an ordinary key and a fob with buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern vehicles are equipped with an anti-theft system that blocks the use of keys that are not the ones provided by the manufacturer in the ignition. This system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the computer in the car. If the chip is not properly programmed the car won't start. A professional auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you within a few minutes.