What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys aren't the kind you can simply bring to a self-service kiosk at the mall to cut. They require specialized sidewinder equipment and are designed to match the specific locking cylinders in your car.
Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting keys will save you time, money and stress.
Keys
The cutting of the car key is to create a new key for the vehicle. Professionals are typically the ones who perform this, as it takes specially designed equipment to trace a key's unique shape and ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. A professional will usually offer a guarantee on the work they do.
In the past keys for cars were easy to find. Modern technology has made them more complicated. A lot of vehicles today use smart keys that come with encryption as well as other security features to prevent theft. These features are intended to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or tamper the key. They can also help owners keep the track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional car keys have a rectangular and flat design. They are thinner than sidewinder keys and feature the same cut on both sides. These keys are able to fit into any lock as they have the exact cut on both sides. They can be duplicated using standard key machines that are available in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by high-end car manufacturers. The technology was able to be used in many models to prevent theft of cars. Laser cut keys have a more robust shank than traditional keys and more grooves cut into the keys. They are slightly more expensive to manufacture, but they are also more secure.
To cut a laser-cut keys the locksmith must first decode a key that is already in the store. Then, he or she sets the key cutting machine to match the cuts in the key that was decoded, and cuts the blade. This kind of key is harder to duplicate and is also more difficult. It is crucial that the locksmith has a high-quality manual machine, such as the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines can also create keys from existing keys, i.e. they can create new keys from an existing key that has been cut.
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Car key cutting is more than just shaping a piece of metal; it's an art that guarantees security, function and durability. When keys are cut correctly, they'll fit inside the lock, and will not cause damage to it or the ignition. Whether you need a regular mechanical key or a smart or transponder key, a professional will ensure that it's cut correctly.
To make a brand new key, an existing key is placed on the duplicator's side and aligned using a specialized cutting tool to serve as a template for the new key. A blank key is placed on the other side of the machine, aligned to the key guide. This keeps both keys aligned during the duplication. Both keys are then cut at the same time to create duplicates that match the original key.
When selecting the key cutter, look for one that offers several jaws that have different ways to hold the key. A two-way jaw is perfect for duplicate keys of standard size, while four-way jaws are better to duplicate key blades that are laser cut. Also, if you'll be making automotive keys like transponder or remote head keys make sure there's enough space between the jaws for these styles of keys.
The right tool can assist you in establishing your 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 the move and is a good choice for a beginner who is looking to begin a car key cutting business.
The investment in a top-quality key cutting machine can be costly, but it's worth the cost since it will allow you to originate and cut most keys by code that includes transponder and smart keys. It is also able to clone and program RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. To clone or program high-security chip keys, you will require a device that is able to communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Finding the best equipment for your key cutting business will save time and money in the long run.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a device that cuts new keys to match the design of the existing ones. The original key is put on one side of the machine, and then lined up with the cutting tool to serve as an outline for the new key. The blank key will be placed on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is utilized to align the two keys as they are being cut. This results in a perfectly replicated new key.
Other kinds of keys require special equipment. Standard car keys can be made using the help of a key cutter. Most newer cars are equipped with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that have to be programmed to begin the vehicle. To cut these kinds of keys, you need a transponder key cutter capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
In addition being able to cut various kinds of keys, the car key cutter must be able program the key in order to allow it to function with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key-cutters available on the market. Each one has its own unique features. The model you choose depends on the type of key you're cutting as well as the number of keys you need to duplicate at once.
If you're interested in learning how to make your own keys, a car key maker can be a valuable tool in your workshop. You must be aware that key cutting machines come in a wide range of quality. It is essential to purchase a machine that is made by a reputable manufacturer and has a good warranty. You should also make sure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced if needed.
There are three main kinds of key cutting machines: Manual, semi-automatic and automated. Manual machines require you to manually move keys along the key tracer wheel and cutter wheel. They are simple to operate, but require your full concentration. A good option is 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 give them the information you need to accomplish by using the software included with the machine.
Programming
If the key has a transponder, it must be programmed to work with that specific vehicle. The procedure varies between models and makes however, the process generally involves inserting a working key into ignition and then leaving it there for a couple of seconds. Then cut car keys near me insert the new one and leave it for a couple of seconds. This allows the car's computer to recognize the key and start the car. If you have a more recent model car, you might be required to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car key duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are easier to use and are more precise than manual machines used to cut keys. They eliminate human error and allow for accurate and quick key cutting. These machines are ideal for those who have lost their keys or damaged them.
There are also car key cutters that specialize in creating key fobs that can be used as replacements to fit the latest models of automobiles. These devices utilize the same technology used in duplication machines for car keys, but can produce up to 50 copies at once. Some models feature touchscreens to make it easier to operate. They can also help you create smart keys, which have an electronic transponder that opens doors in a controlled manner.
A car key cutter is able to duplicate both metal keys and transponder cards. Some keys come with remotes. A normal key has the exact same cut on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a regular key and a fob with buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern cars are equipped with an anti-theft system which blocks the use of keys other than those provided by the manufacturer inside the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computer. If the chip is not properly programmed and the car is not programmed correctly, it will not start. A professional auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you within a few minutes.