What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys cannot be cut at a self-service kiosk in a mall. They require specialized sidewinder key cutting equipment and are designed to work in the lock cylinder that is specific to your vehicle.
Understanding the distinction between duplicate car keys and cutting your car keys will save you money, time and stress in the future.
Keys
The process of cutting a car key is used to create a brand new car key. This is typically done by a professional, since it requires specialized machinery to trace the key's unique shape and make sure it fits in all of the locks correctly. Additionally professionals often provide a warranty for the work that they do.
In the past keys for cars were simple but the advancement of technology has made them more complicated. Many cars now have smart keys that come with encryption as well as other security features to guard against theft. These features are intended to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or alter the key. They also aid owners in keeping the track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular design. They are thinner than sidewinder keys and have the same cut on both sides. Since they share the same cut on both sides, these types of keys can be used in a lock either way. These keys can also be duplicated using the standard key machines that are that are available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, and were primarily used by luxury car manufacturers. The aim was to stop theft of cars, and the technology has been used successfully in a variety of models. Laser cut keys have a more robust shank than traditional keys, and more grooves cut into them. The keys are more expensive to manufacture, but they are also more secure.
To cut a key with a laser the locksmith first decode an existing key in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting device to match the key's cut and cuts the blade. This type of key is harder to duplicate and is more difficult. It is crucial that the locksmith utilizes an automated machine of top quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines can also create keys, which means they can create a new key from a key that has been cut.
Tools
Cutting keys for cars is more than just a simple metal shape. It's a skill that guarantees security and function. Properly cut keys guarantee that they fit into the lock and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. A professional will ensure that the key is cut correctly, whether 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 is used as an outline. car keys cut and programmed is placed on the opposite side of the machine, aligned to a key guide. This keeps both keys in line during duplication. Both keys are then cut simultaneously to produce duplicates that are identical to the original key.
When selecting the key cutter, look for one that offers several jaws that have different ways to hold the key. Two-way jaws are ideal to duplicate standard keys while four-way jaws are better for duplicates of key blades cut by laser. If you are planning to use the machine to duplicate keys for automotive use, like remote heads or transponder keys make sure there enough space between the jaws.
The best tool will aid you in starting the field. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is a reasonable price and has the capability to cut nearly every type of key, excluding high-security blanks. It is portable and is ideal for those who wish to establish their own car key cutting business.
It can be expensive to invest in a high-end machine for cutting keys, however, the investment is worth it because it can cut and make the majority of keys with codes, including transponder and smart keys. It can also be used to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. If you're looking to clone and program high-security chips, however, you'll need an additional device that is able to communicate with the onboard system of your vehicle and identify the unique identification number (VIN). Finding the appropriate equipment for your key cutting business can save you time and money in the long run.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool that duplicates keys with the same shape as existing ones. The original key is placed on one side of the machine, and then lined up with the cutting tool, which serves as an outline for the new key. The blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine. A key guide is utilized to keep the two keys in alignment as they are cut and shaped, creating a flawlessly duplicated new key.
While car keys that are standard can be cut using a key cutter, other kinds of keys require special equipment. The majority of newer cars come with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that need to be programmed to begin the vehicle. To cut these keys, you will require a transponder key cutter capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
In addition being able cut various kinds of keys, a car key cutter also must be able to program the key to make it function properly with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key cutters available on the market each with its own unique set of features. The model you choose depends on the kind of key you're cutting as well as the number of keys you need to copy at one 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 should be aware that the quality of key cutting equipment can vary significantly. It is important to purchase a machine from a reputable manufacturer that has a solid guarantee. It is also important to ensure that the machine is easily repaired or replaced if needed.
There are three types of key cutting machines: Manual, Semi-Automatic and Automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move keys across the key tracer wheel and cutter wheel. They are easy to operate however they require your full focus. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are excellent choices. Automated Machines are computer-driven, and will do all the work for you. All you need to do is give them the information you need to accomplish using the software that comes with the machine.
Programming
If a key has been fitted with transponder, it has to be programmed to the specific vehicle. The process differs between different makes and models, but it usually involves inserting a working key into the ignition and leaving it for a few seconds. Then insert the new key and leave it for a few minutes. This procedure will allow the car to recognize the new key and allow it to start the car. If you have a newer model car, you might also need to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. They are simple to use and are more precise than manual key cutting machines. They also eliminate human errors, making it possible to cut a key precisely and quickly. These machines are ideal for people who are lost or have damaged their keys.
You can also locate a car key cutter that is specialized in creating replacement key fobs for the most recent models of cars. These devices utilize the same technology that duplication machines use for car keys, but are able to create up to 50 copies simultaneously. Some models feature a touchscreen for easier operation. They can also assist in creating smart keys, which are equipped with a a transponder and can open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate both regular keys made of metal as well as transponder keys. Some keys also come with remote heads. A standard key has the exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is an amalgamation of a regular key and a fob which includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
The majority of modern vehicles are equipped with a type of anti-theft system that blocks keys that are not from the manufacturer to be used in the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip to communicate with the computer in the car. If the chip isn't properly programmed the car won't start. A professional auto locksmith can program a new car key for you within a few minutes.