What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys are not ones you can bring to a self-serve kiosk at the mall to be cut. They require specialized sidewinder cutting equipment, and are designed to work with the lock cylinder specific to your car.
Understanding the distinction between duplicate car keys and cutting a car key can save you time, money and stress in the future.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of making the key for a vehicle. It is usually done by a professional, since it requires specialized machinery to trace the key's unique profile and make sure it fits in all locks in the right way. Additionally, a professional can often provide a guarantee on the work they perform.
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 contain encryption, as well as other security features to prevent theft. These features are intended to make it difficult for thieves to duplicate or modify the key. They also aid owners in keeping the track of who has used their vehicle.
The traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular form. They are a lot thinner than sidewinder keys, and they have the same cut on both sides of the blade. These keys are able to fit into any lock as they have the exact same cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated using regular key machines found in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were first introduced in the early 1990s, mostly by luxury car manufacturers. The technology was successfully incorporated in many models to prevent cars being stolen. Laser cut keys are thicker than traditional keys, and they have more grooves carved out in their shanks. They are a little more expensive to make, but they are also more secure.
To cut a key with a laser the locksmith first decode an existing key in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key cutting machine to match the key's cuts and then cuts the blade. This kind of key is much more difficult to duplicate, and it takes a longer time to cut than a standard key. It is essential that the locksmith has a high-quality 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 just creating a metal piece; it's an art that guarantees security, function and durability. Properly cut keys guarantee that they fit into 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 mechanical key or transponder or smart key.
To create duplicate keys the key is positioned on the side of the machine and then aligned using a specific cutting tool. This is used as a template. Then, a blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. There, it is aligned using an instrument guide to keep both keys in alignment during the duplication process. Both keys are then cut simultaneously to produce duplicates that match the original key.
Look for key cutters with multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. A two-way jaw is perfect to duplicate standard keys while the four-way jaw is ideal for duplicates of key blades that are laser cut. Also, if you'll be using the machine to make automotive keys like remote head or transponder key ensure that there's enough space between jaws to accommodate these types of key.
The right tool can aid you in starting your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is a reasonable price and has the capability to cut almost every kind of key except for high-security blanks. It is also suitable for mobile use and is a good option for a novice who would like to begin a car key cutting business.
The investment in a top-quality key cutting machine can be expensive, but it's well worth the cost because it will allow you to design and cut the majority of keys with code, including smart and transponder keys. It is also able to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. If you're looking to program and clone high-security chips you'll require an additional device that can communicate with the vehicle's onboard system and read the unique identification number (VIN). The right equipment can save you time and money.
Cutting
The key duplicator is an instrument that duplicates keys in the same shape as existing ones. The original key is put on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool to serve as an outline for the new key. The blank key will be placed on the opposite side of machine. A key guide is utilized to ensure that the two keys as they are being cut. This produces a perfect replica of the key.
While car keys that are standard can be cut using a key cutter, different kinds of keys require special machines. The majority of newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs which need to be programmed to start the engine. To cut these kinds of keys, you need transponder key cutters that is capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
A car key cutter should be able to cut different kinds of keys but also to program them to work with the ignition system. There are many models of car key cutters available on the market. Each comes with its own unique features. The model you pick depends on what type of key you're cutting and how many copies you'll need at once.
If you're interested in learning to make your own keys, a car key maker is a useful tool for your workshop. However, you must be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can differ greatly. It is important to buy an item that is manufactured by a reputable industrial manufacturer with a long warranty. You should also make sure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced in the event of need.
There are three types of key cutting machines: Manual, Semi-Automatic and Automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move the keys across the key tracer and cutter wheel, they are easy to use but do require your full focus. A good option is the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated Machines are computer-driven and will do everything for you. All you need to do is tell them what to do using the software program that is included with the machine.
Programming
If a key is outfitted with transponder, it has to be programmed to the specific vehicle. The process differs between different models and makes, but it usually involves inserting a working key into the ignition and then leaving it for a couple of seconds. Then car key cutting and programming near me insert the new one and leave it there for a couple of seconds. This process allows the car to recognize the new key and allow it to start the vehicle. You may also have to program your keyless entry remote if you are using a more recent model of car. This requires a more intricate and expensive device.
Retailers are increasingly adding car key duplication machines to their stores because customers demand them. These machines are easier to use and more accurate than manual machines to cut keys. They also eliminate human error, making it possible to cut a key precisely and quickly. These machines are ideal for those who have lost or have damaged keys.
There is also a car key cutter that specializes in creating replacement key fobs for the most recent models of cars. These devices utilize the same technology used in duplication machines for car keys, but can create up to 50 copies simultaneously. Some models have touchscreens for better operation. They can also design smart keys with a transponder to open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate regular metal keys and transponder keys. Some have remote heads. A regular key is a key that has the same exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of regular keys and a fob that includes buttons to lock and unlock the car.
Modern vehicles are equipped with an anti-theft system that blocks the use of keys that are not the ones provided by the manufacturer on the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computers. The car won't start in the event that the chip is not programmed properly. A qualified auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you in just a few minutes.