What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys cannot be cut at a self-service kiosk located in a mall. They require specialized sidewinder key cutting equipment and are specifically designed to work with the specific lock cylinder of your vehicle.
Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting car keys will save you time, money and stress.
Keys
The cutting process of a car key is used to create a new vehicle key. Professionals are usually the ones who do this since it requires special equipment to mark a key's unique shape and ensure it is compatible with the locks. 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 used in many vehicles to prevent theft. They contain encryption and other security measures. These features are designed to make it difficult for thieves to replicate or alter the keys and also aid the owner in keeping track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars are rectangular and flat design. They are thinner than sidewinder keys and have the same cut on both sides. Because they have the same cut on both sides, these types of keys can fit in the lock in any way. These keys can be duplicated with standard key machines available in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by luxury car manufacturers. The goal was to prevent theft of cars, and the technology has been successfully deployed in various models. Laser cut keys have a more robust shank than traditional keys, and more grooves that are carved into the keys. They are a bit more expensive to produce however they are more secure.
In order to cut keys with lasers locksmiths must first decode the existing key in the shop. He or she then sets the key cutting machine to match the cut marks in the key decoded and then cuts the blade. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate and is more difficult to copy. It is essential that the locksmith has an efficient manual machine like the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines also can create keys, which means that they can make a key from one that has been cut.
Tools
Car key cutting is more than just cutting a piece of metal it's an art form that guarantees security, function and durability. Properly-cut keys ensure that they'll fit in the lock, and won't cause harm to it or the ignition. A professional will ensure that the key is cut correctly, whether it's a mechanical key or transponder or smart key.
To make a brand new key, an existing one is placed on the duplicator's side and aligned with a specialized cutting tool to create an example for the new key. Then a blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine, where it's aligned with a key guide to ensure that both keys remain in alignment during the duplicate process. Both keys are cut simultaneously which results in duplicates that are identical to the original.
When choosing the key cutter, look for one that offers several jaws that have different ways to grip the key. A two-way key cutter is best to duplicate standard key blades, while a 4-way one is better for laser cut keys. If you intend to make use of the machine to duplicate automotive keys like remote heads or transponder keys, ensure that there is enough space between the jaws.
The best tool will assist you in establishing the business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is affordable and provides the ability to cut almost every kind of key, excluding high-security blanks. This model is also suitable for mobile use and is a good option for a novice who is looking to start a car key cutting business.
It's expensive to invest in a premium machine for cutting key s but it's worth it since you can cut and create most keys using codes, including transponder and smart keys. It's also great for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chips keys. If you want to clone and program high-security chips you'll require an additional device that can connect to the vehicle's onboard system and identify the unique identification number (VIN). The right equipment can help you save time and money.
Cutting
The key duplicator tool is a machine which cuts keys to fit the shape of the existing ones. The original key is positioned on one side of the machine and lined up with the cutting tool to serve as an example for the new key. The blank key will be positioned on opposite side of machine. A key guide is employed to align the two keys as they are being cut. This results in an exact replica of the new key.
While standard car keys can be cut with a key cutter, different kinds of keys require special machines. Many modern vehicles are fitted with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that need to be programmed to start the engine. Transponder key cutters are needed to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key, and then program it to the vehicle.
In addition to being able to cut various types of keys, a car key cutter also has to be able to program the key in order to make it function properly with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key-cutters on the market. Each comes with distinct characteristics. The model you pick depends on what type of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you need at a time.
A car key cutter is a great tool to keep in your workshop if you are looking to master the art of making keys. However, you should be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can vary significantly. It is essential to purchase a machine from a reputable manufacturer that has a solid guarantee. You should also make sure that the machine can be easily replaced or repaired if needed.
There are three main kinds of key cutting machines Semi-automatic, manual and automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move keys around the key tracer wheel as well as the cutter wheel. They are simple to operate, but require your full focus. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are good choices. Automated Machines are computer-driven, and 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 a transponder, it needs to be programmed to the specific car. The procedure differs between models and makes however, it usually involves inserting the original key into the ignition and then leaving it for a few moments. Then, insert the new key and leave it there for a couple of seconds. This process will allow the car to recognize the new key and allow it to start the car. If you have a more recent model car, you may also need to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more intricate and expensive device.
Retailers are adding more cars key duplication machines to their stores because customers demand them. They are easy to use and more accurate than manual machines for cutting keys. They also eliminate human errors, making it possible to cut keys accurately and quickly. These machines are ideal for people who have lost their keys or damaged them.
You can also find car key cutters that specialize in creating key fobs for replacement that match the most recent models of cars. These devices employ the same technology as the car key duplication machines, but they can make up 50 copies at a time. Some models even have touchscreens for efficient operation. They can also create smart keys that have a transponder to open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate regular keys made of metal as well as transponder keys. Some have remotes. A normal key has the same cut on both sides. A remote head is a combination of a normal key and a fob which includes buttons to lock and unlock the car.
Modern cars are equipped with an anti-theft system that blocks 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. If the chip isn't properly programmed, the car will not start. In a matter of minutes, a qualified auto locksmith will program a new key for your car.