What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys are not ones you can bring to a self-serve kiosk at the mall to get cut. They require specialized sidewinder equipment and are designed to be compatible with the locks cylinders that you have in your car.
Understanding the difference between car key duplication and car key cutting could save you money, time and stress in the future.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of making the key for a vehicle. Professionals are typically the ones who cut keys since it requires special equipment to mark a key's unique shape and ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. Professionals usually provide a warranty on the work they do.
In the past keys for cars 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 harder for thieves to replicate or alter the key, and they can also assist the owner to keep the track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional car keys have a rectangular and flat form. They are much thinner than sidewinder keys and have the same cut on both sides of the blade. These keys can fit in any lock because they share the same cut on both sides. They can be duplicated with regular key machines found in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by high-end car manufacturers. The technology was able to be used in many models to prevent theft of cars. Laser cut keys have a stronger shank than traditional keys, and more grooves that are carved into them. They are more expensive to produce, but are also more secure.
In order to cut a laser cut key, a locksmith has to first decode the key in the shop. Then, he or she sets the key cutting machine to match the cut marks in the key decoded, and cuts the blade. This kind of key is more complicated to copy, and it takes a longer time to copy than a regular key. It is crucial that the locksmith uses an automated machine of top quality, such as the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines also can create keys, meaning they can make a key from a key that was cut.
Tools
Cutting keys for cars is more than just a simple metal shape. It's a skill that guarantees security and efficiency. Properly cut keys guarantee that they fit into the lock and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. A professional will ensure the key is cut correctly, whether it's a key made of metal or smart or transponder.
To make a brand new key, an original one is placed on the side of the duplicator and aligned with an specialized cutting tool to create an example for the new key. A blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine, aligned to a key guide. This keeps both keys aligned during the duplication. The two keys are cut simultaneously to produce duplicates that are identical to the original key.
Find key cutters with multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. A two-way jaw is perfect for duplicating standard keys, while the four-way jaw is ideal for duplicates of laser cut key blades. If you intend to use the machine to duplicate keys from automobiles like remote heads or transponder keys make sure there enough space between the jaws.
The right tool can aid you in starting your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for example, is affordable and can cut almost every kind of key, excluding high security blanks. The model is portable and ideal for those who wish to establish their own car key cutting business.
It can be expensive to invest in a premium machine for cutting keys, but the investment is worth it since it can cut and make keys using codes, including transponder and smart keys. It is also able to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. To clone or program high-security chip keys, you will require a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Finding the best equipment for your key cutting business will save you time and money in the long term.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool that duplicates keys in the same form as the original ones. The key that was originally used is placed on one side of machine and aligned with the cutting tool. This serves as a template for the new key. The blank key is then positioned on the oppo site side of the 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.
While standard car keys can be cut using a key cutter, different types of keys require specialized machines. Many modern vehicles are fitted with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that need to be programmed in order to start the engine. To cut these keys, you require a transponder key cutter capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
A car key cutter should be able to not only cut different types of keys, but also program them to work with the ignition system. There are many different models of car key cutters on the market each with its own unique set of features. The model you choose is based on the kind of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you need at once.
If you're interested in learning 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 equipment can differ greatly. It is important to buy a machine that is made by a reputable industry manufacturer and comes with a solid warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine you buy can be easily repaired or replaced if necessary.
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 between the key tracer and cutter wheel They are simple to use however they require your full focus. A good option is the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated machines are computer controlled and do everything for you. All you have to do is to tell them what to do with the software program that is included with the machine.
Programming
If the key has a transponder it must be programmed to work with that particular vehicle. The procedure differs between models and makes, but usually involves inserting the key that is currently in use into the ignition and then leaving it for a short period of time. Then you insert the new one and leave it for a few minutes. This process allows the car to recognize the new key and allow it to start the vehicle. If you have a newer model car, you might also need to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.
Customers are demanding more car key duplication machines in retail stores. They are easy to use and more accurate than manual machines used to cut keys. They eliminate human error and permit rapid and precise key cutting. These machines are ideal for people who have lost or have damaged their keys.
You can also find a car key cutter that specializes in creating replacement key fobs for the latest models of automobiles. These devices employ the same technology as duplication machines for car keys, but can produce up to 50 copies simultaneously. Some models have touchscreens for better operation. They can also make smart keys with a transponder to open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate regular keys made of metal as well as transponder keys. Some keys have a remote. A regular key has exactly the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a normal key and fob which includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern cars come with a security system that prevents the use of keys that are not the ones supplied by the manufacturer inside the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip to communicate with the car's computer. The car won't start when the chip isn't programmed correctly. A certified auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you in just a few minutes.