What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys cannot be cut at a self-service kiosk in the mall. They require specialized sidewinder key-cutting equipment and are designed to work with the lock cylinder that is specific to your vehicle.
Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and car key cutting will save you time, money and stress in the near future.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of making a new key for a vehicle. Professionals are usually the ones who do this, as it takes specialized machinery to mark a key's unique shape and ensure it is compatible with the locks. A professional will often provide a warranty on the work they do.
In the past, car keys were simple, but modern technologies have made them more complex. Smart keys are utilized in a lot of vehicles to protect against theft. They come with encryption and other security measures. These features are designed to make it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or alter the keys and also assist the owner to keep the track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars are flat and have a rectangular design. They are thinner than the sidewinder key and have the same cut on both sides. These keys are able to fit into any lock since they share the same cut on both sides. They can also be duplicated using standard key machines found in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by luxury automobile manufacturers. The goal was to prevent the theft of vehicles, and the technology has been successfully used in a variety of models. Laser cut keys have a thicker shank than traditional keys, and more grooves carved into the keys. The keys are more expensive to make, but are also more secure.
In order to cut keys with lasers locksmiths must first decode the existing key in the shop. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting device to match the key's cuts and cuts the blade. This type of key is much more difficult to duplicate, and takes more time than a regular key. It is essential that the locksmith uses an efficient manual machine such as the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines can also originate keys, which means they can make a key from a key that has been cut.
Tools
Cutting keys for cars is more just a simple metal shape. It's a technique that ensures security and functionality. Correctly cut keys ensure that they fit in the lock and won't damage it or the ignition. A professional will ensure the key is cut correctly, no matter if it's a key made of metal or transponder or smart key.
To create a new key, an existing one is positioned on the duplicator's side and aligned with a specialized cutting tool to be used as an outline for the new key. A blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine, aligned to the key guide. This keeps both keys in alignment during duplication. Both keys are then cut simultaneously to produce duplicates that match the original key.
When you are choosing the key cutter, look for one that has multiple jaws with different options to hold the key. A two-way cutter is the best for duplicating traditional key blades, while a 4-way one is better for cutting keys using lasers. Additionally, if you're making keys for cars, such as a transponder or remote head keys make sure there is enough space between the jaws for these styles of key.
The appropriate tool can assist you in establishing the field. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is a reasonable price and has the capability to cut nearly every type of key except for high security blanks. This model is also suitable for use on the move and is a good choice for a beginner who would like to begin a car key cutting business.
It can be expensive to invest in a high-end machine for cutting keys, however, the investment is worth it because you can cut and create keys using codes, including transponder and smart keys. It is also able 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 onboard system of your vehicle and identify the unique identification number (VIN). The right equipment can help you save time and money.
Cutting
The key duplicator is an instrument that duplicates keys with the same form as the original keys. The original key is placed on one side of the machine and aligned to the cutting tool. This is used as a template for the new key. The blank key will then be placed on the opposite side of machine. A key guide is utilized to keep the two keys in alignment as they are cut to create a perfect duplicated new key.
While car keys that are standard can be cut using the key cutter, other kinds of keys require special machinery. Many modern vehicles are fitted with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that need 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.
A car key cutter needs to be able to cut various types of keys, but also program them to work with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key-cutters available on the market. Each one has distinct characteristics. The model you select depends on what type of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you need at a time.
A car key cutter is a useful tool to have in your workshop if you want to learn how to make keys. But, be aware that the quality of key cutting equipment can differ significantly. It is essential to purchase an item from a reputable manufacturer that has a solid guarantee. It is also important to ensure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced if needed.
There are three primary kinds of key cutting machines The three main types are 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 complete attention. A good choice would be the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated Machines are computer-driven, and will complete all the work for you. All you have to do is tell them what you want to accomplish by using the software included with the machine.
Programming
If a key is equipped with an electronic transponder, it will need to be programmed for the particular vehicle. The process differs between different models and makes however, the process generally involves inserting a working key into ignition and leaving it for a few seconds. Then the new key needs to be inserted and left there for another few minutes. This allows the computer of the car to recognize this key and start the vehicle. You may also have to program your keyless entry remote if are using a more recent model of car. This requires a complex and expensive device.
Retailers are adding more cars key duplication machines to their stores because customers demand them. These machines are simple to use and are more precise than manual key cutting machines. They also eliminate human mistakes, allowing you to cut a key precisely and quickly. These machines are perfect for people who are lost or have damaged keys.
There is also a spare car key cutting near me key cutter that specializes in making replacement keys for the latest models of automobiles. These devices use the exact same technology that duplication machines use for car keys, but can create up to 50 copies at once. Some models even include touchscreens for convenient operation. They can also design smart keys that have a transponder to open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate regular keys made of metal as well as transponder keys. Some have a remote head. A normal key has the same exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is a combination of a normal key and fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern vehicles are fitted with a type of anti-theft device that prohibits keys that are not from the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the computer in the car. If the chip is not properly programmed the car key blade cutting won't start. A certified auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you within a few minutes.