What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys aren't ones you can bring to a self-service kiosk at the mall to get cut. They require specialized sidewinder cutting equipment and are specifically designed to fit into the lock cylinder specific to your car.
Understanding the difference between car key duplication and cutting a car key could save you money, time and stress in the future.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of creating the key for a vehicle. It is usually done by a professional, as it requires specialized machinery to trace the key's unique shape and ensure that it fits into all locks in the right way. A professional will usually provide a warranty on the work they do.
In the past, car keys were simple. Modern technology has made them more complex. Many vehicles now use smart keys that contain encryption, as well as other security features to guard against theft. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to replicate or tamper with the key, and they can also aid the owner in keeping an eye on who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars have a rectangular and flat shape. They are a lot thinner than sidewinder keys, and have the same cut on both sides of the blade. Since they share the same cut on both sides, these types of keys can be used in a lock either way. They can be duplicated using traditional key machines that can be that are available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were first introduced in the 1990s, mainly by luxury car manufacturers. The goal was to prevent the theft of vehicles, and the technology has been successfully deployed in a variety of models. Laser cut keys have a thicker shank than traditional keys, and more grooves carved into the keys. They are more expensive to produce, but are also more secure.
To cut a laser-cut keys the locksmith first decode a key that is already in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting device to match the key's cuts and cuts the blade. This type of key takes longer to duplicate and is also more difficult to copy. It is imperative that the locksmith uses a manual machine 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 make new keys by using an existing key that has been cut.
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Cutting keys for cars is more than simply a simple shape of metal. It's a skill that ensures security and functionality. Properly-cut keys ensure that they'll fit in the lock, and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. A professional will ensure the key is cut correctly, whether it's a mechanical key or transponder or smart key.
To make a new key, an original one is placed on the duplicator's side and aligned with an specialized cutting tool to create an example for the new key. A blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine, and aligned to the key guide. This will keep both keys aligned during the duplication. Both keys are then cut at the same time to create duplicates that are identical to the original key.
Find key cutters that have multiple jaws that can hold the key. A two-way key cutter is best for duplicates of standard key blades, whereas an option with four ways is best for laser cut keys. Additionally, if you're making automotive keys like transponder keys or remote heads ensure that there's enough space between the jaws for these styles of keys.
The right tool can help you get started in the business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is a reasonable price and provides the ability to cut nearly any kind of key, excluding high security blanks. This model is also suitable for use on mobile devices which makes it a great option for a novice who would like to start a car key cutting business.
It's costly to invest in a premium machine to cut keys, but the investment is worth it because it can cut and make the majority of keys with codes, including transponder and smart keys. It's also good for programming and cloning RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chips keys. To program or clone high-security chip keys, you'll require a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. The right equipment can save you time and money.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool that duplicates keys in the same shape as the existing keys. The key from the original is placed on one side of machine and aligned to the cutting tool. This is used as a template to design the new key. The blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine. Key guides are used to keep the two keys aligned while they are cut and shaped, creating a flawlessly duplicated new key.
Different types of keys require special equipment. Keys for standard cars can be cut using the help of a key cutter. 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. mobile key cutting can trace the contours of the keys and then program it to the vehicle.
In addition to being able to cut various kinds of keys, the car key cutter must be able program the key to make it function properly 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 depends on what type of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you need at once.
A car key cutter is a great tool to have in your workshop if you wish to learn how to create keys. But, be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can vary significantly. It is essential to purchase a machine from a reputable manufacturer with a good guarantee. You should also make sure that the machine is easily repaired or replaced should it be required.
There are 3 main types of key cutting machines: Manual, Semi-Automatic 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 both good options. Automatic Machines are computer driven and can 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 a key is equipped with an electronic transponder, it will need to be programmed to the specific car. The procedure differs between models and makes and models, but generally involves inserting the working key into the ignition and letting it sit for a short period of time. Then the new key has to be inserted and left for a couple of seconds. This allows the car's computer to recognize the key and start the car. If you own a newer model vehicle, you may be required to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. They are easy to use and more precise than manual machines used to cut keys. They also eliminate human errors, making it possible to cut a key accurately and quickly. These machines are perfect for those who have lost or have damaged their keys.
There is also a car key cutter that is specialized in making replacement keys for the latest models of cars. These devices employ the same technology as key duplication machines, but can make up 50 copies at once. Some models even have touchscreens for convenient operation. They can also help you create smart keys, which are equipped with a a transponder and can open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate both regular keys made of metal and transponder keys. Some have remote heads. A regular key has the exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is a combination of an ordinary key and a fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Most modern vehicles are outfitted with a type of anti-theft system that blocks keys other than those from the manufacturer to be used in the ignition. This system relies upon an electronic chip to communicate with the car's computers. If the chip is not properly programmed, the car will not start. A qualified auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you in a few minutes.