What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys can't be cut at a self-service kiosk in a mall. They require specialized sidewinder equipment, and are specifically designed to fit the specific locking cylinders in your car.
Understanding the distinction between duplicate car keys and cutting your car keys could save you money, time and stress in the future.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of creating a new key for a vehicle. Professionals are typically the ones who do this since it requires specialized machinery to create a distinctive shape and ensure that it is compatible with the locks. Additionally, professionals can usually provide a warranty for the work that they do.
In the past keys for cars were simple. Modern technology has made them more complex. Many cars now have smart keys that contain encryption, as well as other security features to prevent theft. These features are intended to make it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or alter the key. They also help owners keep an eye on who is using their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars have a rectangular and flat shape. They are a lot thinner than sidewinder keys and have the same cuts on both sides of the blade. These keys can fit into any lock as they share the same cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated using traditional key machines that can be found in hardware stores.
laser key cutting cut keys were introduced in the early 1990s, mostly by luxury car brands. The technology was successfully implemented in many models to prevent theft of cars. Laser cut keys have a thicker shank than traditional keys and more grooves carved into them. They are more expensive to manufacture, but they are also more secure.
In order to cut the key with a laser, a locksmith must first decode the key in the shop. The locksmith then sets the key cutting machine to match the cut marks in the decoded key, and cuts the blade. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate and it takes a longer time to cut than a standard key. It is imperative that the locksmith utilizes an automated machine of top quality, such as the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines can also create keys, which means they can create a new key from a key that was cut.
Tools
Cutting keys for cars is more than simply a simple shape of metal. It's a skill that guarantees security and function. Correctly cut keys ensure that they'll fit inside the lock and won't cause harm to it or the ignition. A professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly, whether it's a mechanical key or transponder or smart keys.
To make a brand new key, an original one is positioned on the duplicator's side and aligned using an instrument designed for cutting to serve as an outline for the new key. A blank key is placed on the other side of the machine, aligned to a key guide. This will keep both keys in alignment during duplication. Both keys are cut at the same time and produce duplicates that are identical to the original.
Find key cutters with multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. A two-way key cutter is ideal for duplicating standard key blades, while the 4-way model is ideal for laser cut keys. If you are planning to make use of the machine to duplicate keys for automotive use, such as transponder keys or remote heads make sure there enough space between the jaws.
The appropriate tool can assist you in establishing the business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is a reasonable price and can cut almost every kind of key, excluding high security blanks. This model is also suited for use on the move and is a good choice for a beginner who is looking to start a key cutting business.
It's expensive to purchase a top-of-the-line machine to cut keys, but it's worthwhile because you can cut and create most keys using codes, such as transponder and smart keys. It's also useful for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other key chips. To program or clone high-security chip keys, you will need 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 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 positioned on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is used to align the two get keys cut while they are being cut. This results in an exact replica of the new key.
While car keys that are standard can be cut with a key cutter, different kinds of keys require special machinery. Most newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that have to be programmed to start the engine. Transponder key cutters are required to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key and program it for the vehicle.
A car key cutter should be able not only to cut different types of keys but also to program them to work with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key cutters available on the market. Each comes with its own unique features. The model you pick will depend on the kind of key you're cutting as well as the number of copies you require at a time.
If you're interested in learning to make your own keys, a car key maker can be a valuable tool for your workshop. You should be aware that key cutting equipment comes in a variety of high-quality. It is important to purchase an item from a reputable manufacturer that offers a long-term warranty. You should also ensure that the machine you purchase is able to be repaired or replaced if needed.
There are three main types of key cutting machines The three main types are manual, semi-automatic and automated. Manual machines require the user to manually move keys around the key tracer wheel and cutter wheel. They are easy to operate, but require your complete focus. A good choice would be the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated Machines are computer-driven, and do all the work for you. All you need to do is give them the information you need to do using the software that comes with the machine.
Programming
If a key is equipped with a transponder, it needs to be programmed for the particular vehicle. The procedure varies between models and makes however, it generally involves inserting an operational key into the ignition and leaving it there for a few seconds. Then the new key needs to be put in and left for a few minutes. This allows the computer of the car to recognize this key and start the vehicle. You may also need to program your keyless entry remote in case you are using a more recent model of car. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.
Customers are demanding more car key duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are simple to operate and are more precise than manual key cutting machines. These machines remove human error and provide accurate and quick key cutting. These machines are perfect for people who have lost their keys or have damaged them.
There are also car key cutters that specialize in the production of key fobs that can be used as replacements to fit the latest models of vehicles. These devices use the exact same technology used in duplication machines for car keys, but they can produce up to 50 copies at once. Some models even have touchscreens for convenient operation. They can also help you design smart keys, which have transponder technology and open doors in a controlled manner.
A car key cutter can be used to duplicate keys made of metal and transponder cards. Some also come with remote heads. A normal key has exactly the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a normal key and fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
The majority of modern vehicles are equipped with an anti-theft system that blocks keys other than those from the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the computer in the car. The car won't start when the chip isn't programmed properly. A qualified auto locksmith can program a new car key for you in just a few minutes.