What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys cannot be cut at a self-service kiosk located in a mall. They require specialized sidewinder cutting equipment and are specifically designed to work in the lock cylinder that is specific to your car.
Understanding the distinction between car key duplication and car key cutting will save you time, money and stress in the future.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of creating a new key for a car. Professionals are usually the ones who do this, as it takes specially designed equipment to trace a key's distinctive shape and ensure that it is compatible with the locks. A professional will usually offer a guarantee on the work they perform.
In the past, car keys were simple however, modern technology has made them more complicated. Many cars now have smart keys that contain encryption and 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 help owners keep an eye on who is using their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars have a rectangular and flat design. They are smaller than a sidewinder keys and have the same cut on both sides. These keys can fit into any lock as they have the exact cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated using standard key machines available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, mainly by luxury car manufacturers. The technology was able to be used in a variety of models to stop cars being stolen. Laser cut keys are a lot 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 laser cut key, a locksmith has to first decode the key in the shop. The locksmith then adjusts the key cutting machine to match the key's cuts and then cuts the blade. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate and takes more time to copy than a regular key. It is important that the locksmith uses an excellent manual machine, such as 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 make new keys by using 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 guarantees security, function and durability. Correctly cut keys ensure that they'll fit inside the lock, and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. Whether you need a traditional mechanical key or a smart or transponder key professional will make sure that it's cut properly.
To make a brand new key, an existing one is placed on the duplicator's side and aligned using a specialized cutting tool to be used as an example for the new key. Then the blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine where it is aligned using a key guide to ensure that both keys remain in alignment during the duplicate process. Both keys are cut at the same time and produce duplicates that are identical to the original.
Look for key cutters with multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. A two-way jaw is ideal for duplicate keys of standard size, while a four-way jaw is better to duplicate key blades that are laser cut. Additionally, if you're making keys for cars, such as a transponder or remote head keys ensure that there's enough space between jaws to accommodate these types of keys.
The right tool can aid you in starting your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for example, is affordable and provides the ability to cut almost every kind of key except for high security blanks. This model is mobile and is perfect for those who wish to start their own car key cutting business.
A high-end key cutting machine can be expensive, but it's well worth the investment because it will allow you to originate and cut keys using code that includes transponder and smart keys. It's also good for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chips keys. If you want to clone and program high-security chips, however you'll require an additional device that is able to communicate with the onboard system of your vehicle and read the unique identification number (VIN). The right equipment can save you time and money.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a device that cuts new keys to match the design of the existing ones. automotive key cutting is positioned on one side of the machine, and then lined up with the cutting tool, which serves as an example for the new key. The blank key will be positioned on opposite side of machine. A key guide is utilized to align the two keys as they are being cut. This produces an exact replica of the new key.
Other types of keys need special machinery. Keys for cars that are standard can be made with the use of a key cutter. 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 types of keys, you need transponder key cutters that can trace the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
In addition being able to cut different types of keys, a car key cutter also has to be able to program the key in order to ensure it works with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key-cutters on the market. Each one has distinct features. The model you choose depends on the kind of key you're cutting and how many keys you will need to duplicate at once.
A car key cutter is an excellent tool to have in your workshop if you want to learn how to make keys. However, you must be aware that the quality of key cutting equipment can differ greatly. It is important to purchase a machine from a reputable manufacturer with a good warranty. Also, make sure that the machine is easily replaced or repaired in the event of need.
There are three kinds of key cutting machines Semi-automatic, manual and automatic. Manual machines require the user to manually move keys across the key tracer wheel and cutter wheel. They are easy to operate however they require your full attention. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are excellent choices. Automated machines are computer controlled and will do everything for you. All you have to do is to specify what you want them to do with the software program that comes with the machine.
Programming
If the key has an electronic transponder, it needs to be programmed to work with the particular vehicle. The process varies between models and makes and models, but generally involves inserting the working key into the ignition and then leaving it for a few moments. Then the new key needs to be inserted and left for another few seconds. This allows the computer in the car to recognize the key and start the vehicle. If you own a newer model vehicle, you may be required to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complicated and expensive device.
Retailers are progressively adding car key duplication machines to their stores due to the fact that customers are looking for them. These machines are simpler to use and are more precise than manual machines to cut keys. They eliminate human error and allow for rapid and precise key cutting. These machines are ideal for people who have lost their keys or have damaged them.
There are also car key cutters who specialize in the creation of key fobs that can be used as replacements to match the most recent models of cars. These devices employ the same technology used in duplication machines for car keys, but can produce up to 50 copies at once. Some models feature touchscreens for better operation. They can also help you design smart keys, which have a transponder and can open doors in a controlled manner.
A car key cutter can duplicate regular keys made of metal as well as transponder keys. Some keys come with remotes. A normal key has the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is a combination of a regular key and a fob which has buttons to lock and unlock the car.
Modern vehicles are fitted with a type of anti-theft device that prohibits keys other than those supplied by the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip for communication with the computer in the car. If the chip isn't properly programmed the car won't start. A qualified auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you within a few minutes.