What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys cannot be cut at a self-service kiosk in the mall. They require specialized sidewinder key-cutting equipment and are designed to work with the lock cylinder that is specific to your car.
Understanding the difference between car key duplication and car key cutting can save you money, time and stress in the near future.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of creating a new key for a car. Professionals are usually the ones who perform this, as it takes specialized machinery to create a unique shape and ensure that it is compatible with the locks. Additionally, professionals can usually provide a warranty 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 variety of vehicles to deter theft. They contain encryption and other security measures. These features are intended to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or tamper the key. They also help owners keep the track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars have a rectangular and flat form. They are thinner than sidewinder keys and have the same cut on both sides. These keys are able to fit into any lock since they have the exact same cut on both sides. They can be duplicated using traditional key machines that can be that are available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, mainly by luxury car brands. The technology was successfully incorporated in a variety of models to stop cars being stolen. Laser cut keys are a lot thicker than traditional keys, and have more carved out grooves in their shanks. They are slightly more expensive to make, but they are also more secure.
In order to cut a laser cut key, a locksmith must first decode the existing key in the shop. Then, he or she sets the key cutting machine to match the cuts made in the decoded key and then cuts the blade. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate and is also more difficult. It is crucial that the locksmith uses a manual machine that is of high quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines also can create keys from existing ones, i.e. they can create new keys from an existing key that has been cut.
Tools
Car key cutting is more than shaping a piece of metal It's an art that guarantees security, function and durability. Properly-cut keys ensure that they will fit into the lock, and will not cause damage to the lock or the ignition. A professional will ensure that the key is cut correctly, whether it's a mechanical key or transponder or smart keys.
To create a duplicate key the key is placed on the side of the machine and aligned by a special cutting tool. This serves as an example. Then, a blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. There, it is aligned using key guides to ensure both keys are in alignment during the duplication process. Both keys are then cut at the same time to create duplicates that are identical to the original key.
Look for key cutters that have multiple jaws to grip the key. A two-way jaw is perfect to duplicate standard keys while the four-way jaw is ideal to duplicate key blades that are laser cut. Also, if you'll be using the machine to make automotive keys like remote head or transponder key, make sure that there's enough space between jaws for these styles of keys.
The right tool can aid you in starting your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut nearly any type of key, aside from high-security blanks. The model is portable and ideal for those who wish to establish their own car key cutting business.
A high-end key cutting machine is expensive, but it's worth the cost because it allows you to originate and cut keys using code that includes transponder and smart keys. It can also be used to clone and program RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. To program or clone high-security chip keys, you'll need a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Choosing the right equipment for your key cutting business will save time and money in the long term.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool which cuts keys to fit the shape of existing ones. The original key is placed on one side of machine and then aligned with the cutting tool. This serves as a template to design the new key. The blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is employed in order to align the two keys as they are being cut. This results in a perfectly replicated new key.
Other kinds of keys require special machinery. Standard car keys can be made with the help of a key cutter. Many modern cars are equipped with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that must be programmed to allow the start of the vehicle. Transponder key cutters are required to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the keys and then program it to the vehicle.
In addition being able cut various types of keys, car key cutters also must be able program the key to allow it to function with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key-cutters available on the market. Each comes with distinct characteristics. The model you select will depend on the type of key you're cutting as well as the number of keys you need to duplicate at once.
A car key cutter is an excellent tool to have in your workshop if you are looking to learn how to make keys. But, be aware that the quality of key cutting equipment can vary significantly. It is crucial to purchase the machine by a reputable manufacturer and comes with a solid warranty. Also, make sure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced in the event of need.
There are three types of key cutting machine Semi-automatic, manual and automated. Manual machines require the user to manually move keys around the key tracer wheel and cutter wheel. They are easy to operate however they require your full concentration. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are both good options. Automated Machines are computer-driven and will do everything for you, all you have to do is specify what you want them 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 specific vehicle. The procedure differs between brands and models, but usually involves inserting the key that is currently in use into the ignition and then leaving it for a short period of time. Then the new key has to be put in and left for a couple of minutes. This allows the car's computer to recognize the key and begin the car. You may also need to program your keyless entry remote if have a more recent model of vehicle. This requires a complicated and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. cost of cutting a car key are easy to use and more precise than manual machines for cutting keys. They also eliminate human error, making it possible to cut a key precisely and quickly. These machines are ideal for those who have lost their keys or damaged them.
There are also car key cutters who specialize in the creation of replacement key fobs to be compatible with the most recent models of cars. These devices employ the same technology used in duplication machines for car keys, but can produce up to 50 copies at once. Some models even include touchscreen displays for more comfortable operation. They can also design smart keys with a transponder to open doors automatically.
A car key cutter is able to duplicate keys made of metal and transponder cards. Some also come with a remote head. A regular key has exactly the same cut on both sides. A remote head is an amalgamation of a regular key and a fob that has buttons to lock and unlock the car.
Modern cars come with a security system that blocks the use of keys that are not the ones provided by the manufacturer inside the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip for communication with the car's computers. If the chip isn't properly programmed and the car is not programmed correctly, it will not start. A professional auto locksmith can program a new car key for you in a few minutes.