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 designed to work in the specific lock cylinder of your vehicle.
Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting keys will save you time, money and stress.
Keys
The process of cutting a car key is to create a new key for the vehicle. Professionals are usually the ones who perform this, as it takes special equipment to create a unique shape and key cutter ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. In addition, a professional can often offer a warranty on the work they perform.
In the past keys for cars were simple however, modern technology has made them more complicated. Smart keys are used in many vehicles to prevent theft. They contain encryption and other security measures. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to replicate or alter the key and also aid the owner in keeping an eye on who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars have a rectangular and flat form. They are much smaller than sidewinder keys and they have the same cuts on both sides of the blade. These keys are able to fit into any lock as they share the same cut on both sides. They can be duplicated with standard key machines that are available in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by luxury automobile manufacturers. The technology was successfully implemented in a variety of models to stop theft of cars. Laser cut keys have a thicker shank than traditional keys and more grooves cut into the keys. They are a little more expensive to produce, but they are also more secure.
In order to cut the key with a laser, a locksmith has to first decode the key in the shop. The locksmith then adjusts the key cutting machine to match the key’s cut and cuts the blade. This kind of key is much more difficult to duplicate and takes more time than a regular key. It is crucial that the locksmith is equipped with an excellent manual machine, like 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 from an existing key that has been cut.
Tools
Cutting keys for cars is more than just a simple metal shape. It’s a technique that guarantees security and function. When keys are cut correctly, they ensure that they fit in the lock and won’t harm it or the ignition. A professional will ensure the key is cut correctly, regardless of whether it’s a mechanical key or transponder or smart key.
To make a brand new key, an original one is positioned on the duplicator’s side and aligned with an specialized cutting tool to serve as a template for the new key. Then, a blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine where it is aligned using a key guide to ensure both keys are in alignment during the duplication process. Both keys are then cut simultaneously to produce duplicates that are identical to the original key.
When you are choosing a key cutter, look for one that offers multiple jaws with different options to grip the key. A two-way key cutting services near me cutter is best to duplicate standard key blades, while a 4-way one is better for keys that are laser cut. Also, if you’ll be making keys for cars, such as a transponder or remote head keys, make sure that there is enough space between the jaws for these kinds of keys.
The appropriate tool can assist you in establishing the field. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is affordable and can cut nearly any kind of key except for high-security blanks. The model is portable and is perfect for those who want to establish their own car key cutting business.
Investing in a high-end key cutting machine is costly, but it’s worth the investment because it will allow you to design and cut keys using code, including smart and transponder keys. It’s also great for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chip keys. If you’re looking to program and clone high-security chips however, you’ll need an additional device that can communicate with the vehicle’s onboard system and read the unique identification number (VIN). Choosing the appropriate equipment for your key cutting business will save time and money in the long run.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool that duplicates keys with the same shape as the existing ones. The original key is placed 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 is then positioned on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is utilized to keep the two keys in line as they are cut and shaped, creating a flawlessly duplicated new key.
While car keys that are standard can be cut with a key cutter, other types of keys require specialized equipment. Most newer cars are equipped with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that have to be programmed to start the vehicle. To cut these kinds of keys, you require a transponder key cutter that is capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
In addition to being able to cut different types of keys, a car key cutter also has to be able to program the key to ensure it works with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key cutters available on the market each with its own distinctive set of features. The model you select will depend on the type of key you are cutting as well as the number of keys you will need to copy at once.
If you’re interested in learning to make your own keys, a car key cutter is a useful tool for your workshop. But, be aware that the quality of key cutting equipment can vary significantly. It is essential to purchase a machine that is made by a reputable manufacturer and has a good warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced should it be required.
There are three kinds of key cutting machines that are available: Manual, Semi-Automatic and Automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move keys across the key tracer wheel as well as the cutter wheel. They are easy to operate however they require your complete attention. A good choice would be the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated Machines are computer-driven, and will do all the work for you. All you have to do is tell them what you want to do using the software that comes with the machine.
Programming
If the key has a transponder, it must be programmed to work with the specific car. The procedure varies for different brands and models and models, but generally involves inserting the key that is currently in use into the ignition and letting it sit for a few moments. Then insert the new key and leave it there for a few seconds. This allows the computer of the car to recognize this key and begin the car. If you have a newer model car, you may also need to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complicated and expensive device.
Retailers are increasingly adding car key fob cut near me duplication machines to their stores because customers want them. They are simple to use and more accurate than manual key cutting machines. They eliminate human error and permit accurate and quick key cutting. These machines are perfect for people who have lost their keys or have damaged them.
You can also locate a car key cutter that specializes in creating replacement key fobs for the most recent models of cars. These devices employ the same technology as car key duplication machines but can produce up 50 copies at a time. Some models come with touchscreens for better operation. They can also make smart keys that include a transponder to open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate regular keys made of metal and transponder keys. Some keys have remotes. A normal key has the exact cuts 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 come with an anti-theft 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 that communicates with the computer in the car. The car will not start if the chip is not properly programmed. In just a few minutes, a qualified auto locksmith can programme a new key to your vehicle.