What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys aren’t cut at a self-service kiosk located in the mall. They require specialized sidewinder key cutting equipment, and are designed to work with the lock cylinder specific to your car.
Understanding the difference between duplication of car keys and cutting keys can save you money, time and stress.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of making an entirely new key for a vehicle. Professionals are typically the ones who do this, as it takes specially designed equipment to mark a key’s unique shape and ensure it fits into the locks correctly. Professionals usually provide a warranty on the work they perform.
In the past keys for cars were easy but the advancement of technology has made them more complex. Smart keys are utilized in a lot of vehicles to protect against theft. They are encrypted and come with other security measures. These features are intended to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or alter the key. They can also aid owners in keeping an eye on who is using their vehicle.
Traditional car keys cut have a rectangular and flat form. They are smaller than a sidewinder keys and have the same cut on both sides. They can fit into any lock as they have the exact cut on both sides. They can also be duplicated using traditional key machines that can be found in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, mainly by luxury car brands. The idea was to stop cars from being stolen and the technology has been used successfully in many models. Laser cut keys are more durable than traditional keys, and also have more carved grooves in their shanks. They are slightly more expensive to manufacture but they’re also more secure.
To cut keys with lasers, a locksmith has to first decode the existing key in the shop. Then, he or she sets the key cutting machine to match the cut marks in the decoded key and then cuts the blade. This kind of key is more complicated to copy, and it takes a longer time than a regular key. It is crucial that the locksmith has a high-quality manual machine, like the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines can also originate keys, which means they can make a new key from an existing one that has already been cut.
Tools
Cutting keys for cars is more simply a simple shape of metal. It’s a technique that ensures security and functionality. Properly-cut keys ensure that they will fit into the lock and won’t cause harm to it or the ignition. No matter if you need a standard mechanical key or a smart or transponder key, a professional will ensure that it’s cut properly.
To make a duplicate key, a key is placed on the machine’s side and aligned by a special cutting tool. This serves as an example. A blank key is placed on the other side of the machine, and aligned to the key guide. This will keep both keys in line during duplication. Both keys are then cut at the same time to create duplicates that are identical to the original key.
When selecting a key cutter, look for one that offers various jaws and different ways to hold the key. Two-way jaws are ideal for duplicate keys of standard size, while four-way jaws are better for duplicates of key blades cut by laser. Additionally, if you’re making keys for automobiles, such as remote head or transponder key make sure there is enough space between the jaws for these styles of keys.
The right tool can help you start your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut nearly any type of key, except for high-security blanks. This model is mobile key cutting service and ideal for those who cuts car keys near me wish to start their own car key cutting business.
It’s expensive to invest in a premium machine to cut keys, however, the investment is worth it since 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 can communicate with the vehicle’s onboard system and identify the unique identification number (VIN). Choosing the appropriate equipment for your key cutting business will save you time and money in the long term.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool that cuts keys to fit the shape of the ones that are already in use. The original key is placed on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool, which serves as a template for the new key. The blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is utilized to align the two keys while they are being cut. This produces a perfectly replicated new key.
While standard car keys can be cut using a key cutter, different kinds of keys require special machines. The majority of newer cars come with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that must be programmed to begin the vehicle. 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.
A car key cutter must be able to cut different kinds of keys, but also program them to work 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 is based on the kind of spare key cutting you’re cutting and how many copies you need at a time.
If you’re looking to learn how to make your own keys, a car key maker could be a great tool in your workshop. You must be aware that key cutting machines are available in a wide range of quality. It is important to purchase the machine from a reliable manufacturer that offers a long-term warranty. Also, make sure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced if needed.
There are three main kinds of key cutting machines that are available: Manual Semi-Automatic, Automatic and Manual. Manual machines require you to manually move the keys between the key tracer and cutter wheel They are easy to use but do require your complete focus. A good choice would be the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated machines are computer controlled and will do everything for you. All you need to do is tell them what to do using the software program that is included with the machine.
Programming
If the key is equipped with a transponder, it must be programmed to work with that particular vehicle. The process varies among makes and models however, it generally involves inserting a working key into the ignition and then leaving it there for a few seconds. Then the new key needs to be inserted and left there for a few seconds. This allows the car’s computer to recognize the key and start the vehicle. If you have a newer model car, you might also have to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complex and expensive device.
Retailers are increasingly adding automobile key duplication machines into their stores because customers want them. These machines are simple to use and are more accurate than manual key cutting machines. These machines remove human error and allow for accurate and quick key cutting. They are great for people who have lost their keys or have damaged them.
You can also find car key cutters that specialize in the creation of key fobs for replacement that be compatible with the latest models of vehicles. These devices use the same technology as key duplication machines but can create up to 50 copies at once. Some models even include touchscreens for convenient operation. They can also help you design smart keys that have transponder technology and open doors in a controlled manner.
A car key cutter can duplicate regular keys made of metal as well as transponder keys. Some also have a remote head. A normal key is a key that has the exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is a combination of an ordinary key and a fob with buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern vehicles are fitted with an anti-theft system that blocks keys other than those from the manufacturer to be used in the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip that communicates with the computer in the car. If the chip is not properly programmed and the car is not programmed correctly, it will not start. A qualified auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you within a few minutes.