What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys cannot be cut at a self-service kiosk in the mall. They require specialized sidewinder equipment, and are specifically designed to match the specific lock cylinders of your car.
Understanding the difference between duplication of car keys and cutting keys will save you time, money and stress.
Keys
The cutting of a car key is used to create a new key for the vehicle. Professionals are usually the ones who do this since it requires special equipment to mark a key's unique shape and ensure it fits into the locks correctly. Additionally, a professional can often offer a warranty on the work they do.
In the past, car keys were simple but the advancement of technology has made them more complex. A lot of vehicles today use smart keys that have encryption as well as other security features to prevent theft. These features are intended to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or modify the key. They can also assist owners in keeping the track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional car keys have a rectangular and flat form. They are a lot thinner than sidewinder keys, and have the same cut on both sides of the blade. These keys are able to fit in any lock because they share the same cut on both sides. They can be duplicated using standard key machines available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, and were primarily used by luxury car brands. The technology was successfully implemented in many models to prevent cars being stolen. Laser cut keys are more durable than traditional keys, and they have more grooves carved out in their shanks. They are a little more expensive to produce but they're also more secure.
To cut a laser-cut key the locksmith must first decode a key that is already in the store. He or she then sets the key cutting machine to match the cuts in the key decoded, and cuts the blade. This type of key is much more difficult to duplicate, and it takes a longer time than a regular key. It is crucial that the locksmith has an excellent manual machine, like the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines can also make keys from existing ones, 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 cutting a piece of metal It's an art that ensures security, functionality and long-term durability. When keys are cut correctly, they'll fit inside the lock, and won't cause harm to it or the ignition. Whether you need a standard mechanical key cutting services or a transponder or smart key professional will make sure that it's cut properly.
To make a duplicate key the key is placed on the side of the machine and then aligned using a specific cutting tool. This is used as an example. A blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine, aligned to a key guide. This will keep both keys in line during duplication. Both keys are cut simultaneously and produce duplicates that are identical to the original.
Find key cutters with multiple jaws that can hold the key. Two-way jaws are ideal for duplicating standard keys, while four-way jaws are better for duplicates of key blades that are laser cut. Also, if you'll be using the machine to make automotive keys like transponder keys or remote heads, make sure that there's enough space between jaws to accommodate these types of key.
The right tool can aid you in starting the field. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that cuts almost every type of key except for high-security blanks. It is also suitable for mobile key cutting service use which makes it a great choice for a beginner who would like to start a key cutting business.
Investing in a high-end key cutting machine can be costly, but it's worth the cost because it allows you to create and cut most keys by code that includes transponder and smart keys. It can also be used to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. If you're looking to clone and program high-security chips however you'll require an additional device that can communicate with the vehicle's onboard system and identify the unique identification number (VIN). Finding the right equipment for your key cutting business can save you time and money in the long run.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool that cuts keys to match the design of the ones that are already in use. The original key is put on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool, which serves as an outline for the new key. The blank key will be positioned on 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.
While car keys that are standard can be cut using the key cutter, other types of keys require specialized equipment. The majority of newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that have to be programmed to start the engine. To cut these types of keys, you require transponder key cutters that can trace 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 must be able program the key to ensure it works with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key-cutters on the market. Each has distinct characteristics. The model you select will depend on the type of key you're cutting and the number of get keys cut you have to copy at one time.
If you're interested in learning how to make your own keys, a car key maker could be a great tool for your workshop. However, you should be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can differ significantly. It is crucial to buy the machine from a reliable manufacturer that has a solid guarantee. It is also important to ensure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced in the event of need.
There are three main kinds of key cutting machines that are available: Manual Semi-Automatic, Automatic and Manual. Manual Machines require you to manually move keys between the cutter wheel and tracer, they are easy to use, but they require your full concentration. The best option is the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated machines are computer controlled and can do everything for you, all you have to do is specify what you want them to do with the software that comes with the machine.
Programming
If the key has a transponder, it must be programmed to work with the specific vehicle. The procedure varies between makes and models however, it generally involves inserting a working key into ignition and leaving it there for a few seconds. Then the new key needs to be put in and left for another few seconds. This procedure will allow the car to recognize the new key and allow it to start the car. You may also have to program your keyless entry remote if have a more recent model of car. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car key duplication machines in retail stores. They are easy to use and are more precise than manual machines to cut keys. They also eliminate human mistakes, allowing you to cut a key precisely and quickly. These machines are ideal for people who have lost or have damaged keys.
There are also car key cutters that specialize in creating replacement key fobs to match the latest models of vehicles. These devices use the same technology as key duplication machines, but they can make up to 50 copies at a time. Some models come with a touchscreen for easier operation. They can also make smart keys that include an RFID chip that allows doors to open automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate both regular keys made of metal as well as transponder keys. Some have a remote. A regular key has exactly the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a regular key and a fob with buttons to lock and unlock the car.
Modern cars come with a security system that prohibits the use of keys that are not the ones supplied by the manufacturer on the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the car's computers. If the chip isn't properly programmed, the car will not start. In a matter of minutes, a professional auto locksmith can create a new key for your vehicle.