What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys aren't ones you can take to a self-service kiosk in the mall to be cut. They require specialized sidewinder equipment, and are designed to match the specific lock cylinders of your vehicle.
Understanding the difference between car key duplication and cutting your car keys can save you time, money and stress in the future.
Keys
The process of cutting the car key is to create a new key for the vehicle. Professionals are usually the ones who cut keys because it requires specialized machinery to mark a key's unique shape and ensure it fits into the locks correctly. A professional will usually provide a warranty on the work they do.
In the past keys for cars were easy to find. Modern technology has made them more complex. Many vehicles now use smart keys that have encryption, as well as other security features to prevent theft. These features are designed to make it difficult for thieves to duplicate or tamper with the key, and they can also assist the owner to keep track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars are rectangular and flat design. They are a lot thinner than sidewinder keys, and feature the same cuts on both sides of the blade. Since they share the same cut on both sides, these kinds of keys can fit in the lock in any way. They can also be duplicated using standard key machines that are available in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser-cut keys were introduced by luxury car manufacturers. key cut place near me was to prevent theft of cars, and the technology has been used successfully in various models. Laser cut keys have a stronger shank than traditional keys and more grooves cut into them. They are slightly more expensive to produce, but they are also more secure.
To cut a laser-cut key the locksmith must first decode a key that is already in the store. Then, nearest key cutting or she sets the key cutting machine to match the cuts made in the decoded key and then cuts the blade. This kind of key is harder to copy and is more difficult to copy. It is important that the locksmith is equipped with an excellent manual machine, like the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines also can create keys from existing keys, i.e. they can create new keys using an existing key that has been cut.
Tools
Cutting keys for cars is more than just a simple metal shape. It's a skill that ensures security and functionality. Properly-cut keys ensure that they'll fit inside the lock, and will not cause harm to it or the ignition. Whether you need a traditional mechanical key or a transponder or smart key, a professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly.
To make a new key, a previous one is placed on the opposite side of the duplicator and lined up with an specialized cutting tool to serve as a template for the new key. Then a blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine where it is aligned using key guides to keep both keys in alignment during the duplication process. Both keys are cut simultaneously, resulting in duplicates that are identical to the original.
When choosing a key cutter, look for one that offers various jaws and different ways to hold the key. A two-way key cutter is ideal for duplicates of standard key blades, while a 4-way one is better for laser cut keys. Additionally, if you're using the machine to make keys for cars, such as a transponder or remote head keys ensure that there's enough space between the jaws for these kinds of key.
The right tool will aid you in starting your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is a reasonable price and can cut almost every kind of key, excluding high security blanks. It is also suitable for mobile use which makes it a great option for someone who is just starting out and wants to start a car key cutting business.
It's costly to invest in a premium machine for cutting keys but the investment is worthwhile because you can cut and originate keys using codes, including transponder and smart keys. It's also useful for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other key chips. If you're looking to clone and program high-security chips you'll require an additional device that is able to communicate with the vehicle's onboard system and identify the unique identification number (VIN). The right equipment can save you time and money.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool which cuts keys to match the shape of existing ones. The original key is placed on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool, which serves as an example for the new key. The blank key is placed on the other side of the machine. Key guides are used to keep the two keys aligned during the cutting process and shaped, creating a flawlessly duplicated new key.
While car keys that are standard can be cut with the key cutter, other types of keys require specialized equipment. Many modern cars are equipped with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that have to be programmed to start the vehicle. Transponder key cutters are required to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key, and then program it to the vehicle.
A car key cutter must be able to not only cut different kinds of keys, but also program them to work with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key-cutters on the market. Each comes with distinct features. The model you choose will depend on the type of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you need simultaneously.
If you're looking to learn how to make your own keys using a car key cutter, it can be a valuable tool in your workshop. It is important to know that key cutting machines come in a variety of quality. It is important to buy an item that is manufactured by a reputable industry manufacturer and has a good warranty. You should also ensure that the machine you purchase 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, and Automatic. Manual Machines require you to manually move keys across the cutter wheel and tracer, they are easy to use, but they require your full attention. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are good choices. Automated machines are computer-driven and do all the work for you. All you need to do is specify what you want them to accomplish using the software that comes with the machine.
Programming
If the key is equipped with a transponder, it must be programmed to work with that specific car. The procedure differs between models and makes and models, but generally involves inserting the original key into the ignition and letting it sit for a short period of time. Then the new key has to be put in and left for another few minutes. This allows the car's computer to recognize the key and begin the car. If you own a newer model vehicle, you may also need to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a sophisticated and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car key duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are easy to use and more accurate than manual key cutting machines. They eliminate human error and provide precise and fast key cutting. These machines are ideal for people who have lost their keys or have damaged them.
You can also find a car key cutter that is specialized in creating replacement key fobs for the latest models of automobiles. These devices use the exact same technology as duplication machines for car keys, but they can create up to 50 copies at once. Some models come with touchscreen displays for more comfortable operation. They can also design smart keys that have an RFID chip that allows doors to open automatically.
A car key cutter is able to duplicate both metal keys and transponder cards. Some have remote heads. A regular key has the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a regular key and a fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern cars are equipped with an anti-theft system which prevents the use of keys that are not those provided by the manufacturer on the ignition. This system relies upon an electronic chip that communicates with the computer in the car. If the chip isn't properly programmed the car won't start. A professional auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you in just a few minutes.