What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys are not the type you can bring to a self-service kiosk in the mall to be cut. They require specialized sidewinder cutting equipment and are specifically designed to fit into the lock cylinder that is specific to your car.
Understanding the difference between car key duplication and cutting a car key can save you time, money and stress in the near future.
Keys
The cutting of a car key is to create a new key for the vehicle. This is typically done by a professional, as it requires specialized machinery to trace the key’s unique shape and make sure it fits in all of 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. Many vehicles now use smart keys that come with encryption, as well as other security features to prevent theft. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or tamper the key. They also help owners keep an eye on who is using their vehicle.
Traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular design. They are thinner than sidewinder keys and have the same cuts on both sides of the blade. Since they share the same cut on both sides, these types of keys can be used in locks in any way. They can be duplicated with standard key machines available in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by luxury car manufacturers. The idea was to stop the theft of vehicles, and the technology has been used successfully in a variety of models. Laser cut keys are a lot thicker than traditional keys, and they have more carved out grooves in their shanks. The keys are more costly to manufacture, but they are also more secure.
To cut a laser-cut key 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 cuts and then cuts the blade. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate and is also more difficult. It is essential that the locksmith has an efficient manual machine such as the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines also can create keys from existing ones, i.e. they can create new keys using an existing key that has been cut.
Tools
Cutting car keys is more than simply a simple shape of metal. It’s a skill that guarantees security and efficiency. When keys are cut correctly, they’ll fit in the lock and won’t cause harm to it or the ignition. A professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly, no matter if it’s a key made of metal or transponder or smart keys.
To make duplicate keys, a key is placed on the side of the machine and aligned with a special cutting tool. This serves as an example. A blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine and aligned to a key guide. This keeps both keys in alignment during duplication. Both keys are then cut simultaneously to produce duplicates that match the original key.
Find a key cutter that has multiple jaws that can hold the key. A two-way key cutter is ideal 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 automotive keys like transponder or remote head keys, make sure that there is enough space between the jaws to accommodate these types of key.
The right tool can assist you in establishing your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut nearly every kind of key, with the exception of high-security blanks. This model is also suitable for use on the move and is a good option for a novice who is looking to begin a car key cutting business.
It’s expensive to invest in a premium machine for cutting keys but it’s worthwhile because you can cut and originate keys using codes, such as transponder and smart keys. It can also be used to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. If you’re planning to program and clone high-security chips you’ll require a second device that can communicate with the vehicle’s onboard system and read the unique identification number (VIN). Getting the right equipment for your key cutting business will save time and cash in the end.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a device which 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 then lined up with the cutting tool, which serves as an outline for the new key. The blank key is then positioned on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is used in order to align the two keys while they are being cut. This results in a perfectly replicated new key.
While car keys that are standard can be cut with a key cutter, different types of keys require specialized machinery. Most newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs which need to be programmed in order to start the engine. Transponder key cutters are needed to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key, and program it for the vehicle.
A car key cutter needs to be able to cut different types of keys but also to program them to work with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key-cutters on the market. Each comes with its own unique features. The model you select depends on what kind of key you’re cutting and the number of copies you require 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 differ greatly. It is crucial to buy an item from a reputable manufacturer that offers a long-term guarantee. Also, make sure that the machine is easily replaced or repaired if needed.
There are three primary kinds of key cutting machines: Manual, semi-automatic and automated. Manual machines require you to manually move keys around the key tracer wheel and cutter wheel. They are simple to operate however they require your full attention. The best option is the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automatic Machines are computer-driven and will complete all the work for you. All you have to do is tell them what you want to do using the software included with the machine.
Programming
If the key is equipped with a transponder, it must be programmed to work with the particular vehicle. The process varies among models and key cutting business makes however, it generally involves inserting a working key into ignition and leaving it in place for a couple of seconds. Then, the new key needs to be inserted and left for a few minutes. This process allows the car to recognize the new key and allows it to start the car. You may also have to program your keyless entry remote if you have a newer model of vehicle. This requires a more complex and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car key duplication machines in retail stores. They are simple to use and more precise than manual key cutting machines. They also eliminate human mistakes, allowing you to cut a key precisely and quickly. These machines are perfect for people who have lost their keys or damaged them.
There are also car 24 hour key cutting cutters who specialize in the creation of replacement key fobs to fit the latest models of vehicles. These devices employ the same technology as car key duplication machines, but they can create up to 50 copies at a time. Some models even include touchscreen displays for more convenient operation. They can also design smart keys that have an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.
A car key cutter is able to duplicate both metal keys and transponder cards. Some have remotes. A regular key is a key that has the same exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a normal key and a fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern cars come with an anti-theft system which prevents the use of keys other than the ones provided by the manufacturer on the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the computer in the car. If the chip is not properly programmed and the car is not programmed correctly, it will not start. In just a few minutes, a professional auto locksmith can programme a new key to your vehicle.