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 special sidewinder equipment and are specifically designed to be compatible with the locking cylinders in your car.
Understanding the difference between car key duplication and car key cutting will save you money, time and stress in the future.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of creating an entirely new key for a car. Professionals are typically the ones who do this since it requires special equipment to mark a key's unique shape and ensure it is compatible with the locks. A professional will usually offer a guarantee for the work they do.
In the past keys for cars were easy but the advancement of technology has made them more complicated. Many cars now have smart keys that have encryption, as well as other security features to prevent theft. key cutting services near me are designed to make it harder for thieves to replicate or alter the key and can aid the owner in keeping track of who has used their vehicle.
The traditional keys for cars are flat and have a rectangular design. They are thinner than sidewinder keys and they feature the same cuts on both sides of the blade. They can fit into any lock as they have the exact cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated with standard key machines available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the early 1990s, mostly by luxury car brands. The idea was to stop the theft of vehicles, and the technology has been used successfully in a variety of models. Laser cut keys are more durable than traditional keys, and also have more carved grooves in their shanks. The keys are more expensive to manufacture, but they are also more secure.
To cut a laser-cut key the locksmith must first decode an existing key in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting machine to match the key's cut and cuts the blade. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate and is more difficult to copy. 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 can also create keys from existing keys, i.e. they can create new keys from an existing key that has been cut.
Tools
Car key cutting is more than just cutting a piece of metal; it's an art that ensures security, functionality, and longevity. When keys are cut correctly, they'll fit inside the lock, and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. Whether you need a regular mechanical key or a transponder or smart key, a professional will make sure that it's cut properly.
To make a new key, an original one is placed on the side of the duplicator and lined up with an instrument designed for cutting to create an outline for the new key. A blank key is placed on the other side of the machine, and aligned to the key guide. This will keep both keys in alignment during duplication. The two keys are cut simultaneously to produce duplicates that are identical to the original key.
Look for key cutters with multiple jaws to grip the key. A two-way jaw is ideal to duplicate standard keys while a four-way jaw is better for duplicates of key blades cut by laser. If you intend to make use of the machine to duplicate keys for automotive use, like remote heads or transponder keys, ensure that there enough space between the jaws.
The appropriate tool can help you get started in the field. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut nearly any type of key, except for high-security blanks. This model is also suited for use on the move, making it an excellent option for someone who is just starting out and would like to start a car key cutting business.
The investment in a top-quality key cutting machine is expensive, but it's well worth the investment because it will allow you to design and cut the majority of keys with code including transponder and smart keys. It can also be used 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. Getting the best equipment for your key cutting business can save you time and money in the long term.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool that cuts new keys to fit the shape of existing ones. The key from the original 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 be positioned on opposite side of machine. A key guide is utilized to ensure that the two keys while they are being cut. This results in a perfect replica of the key.
While standard car keys can be cut using the key cutter, other types of keys require specialized machines. Most 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 will require transponder key cutters that can trace the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
A car key cutter should be able to cut different types of keys, but also program them to work with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key-cutters on the market. Each comes with distinct features. The model you pick will depend on the type of key you're cutting and how many copies you need simultaneously.
If you're interested in learning to make your own keys, a car key cutter is a useful tool for your workshop. It is important to know, however, that key cutting machines come in a variety of quality. It is essential to purchase a machine that is made by a reputable industrial manufacturer and has a good warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine you purchase is able to be easily repaired or replaced in the event of need.
There are three types of key cutting machine Semi-automatic, manual and automated. Manual machines require the user to manually move keys along the key tracer wheel as well as the cutter wheel. They are easy to operate however they require your complete focus. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are good choices. Automated Machines are computer-driven and do everything for you, all you have to do is to instruct them on what to do using the software program that comes with the machine.
Programming
If a key has been fitted with a transponder, it needs to be programmed to the specific vehicle. The procedure varies between models and makes, but it usually involves inserting an operational key into the ignition and leaving it there for a few seconds. Then, the new key needs to be put in and left for a few seconds. This procedure allows the car to recognize the new key and allows it to start the vehicle. You may also need to program your keyless entry remote if you have a more recent model of vehicle. This requires a sophisticated and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are easier to use and more precise than manual machines for cutting keys. These machines remove human error and permit precise and fast key cutting. They are great for those who have lost their keys or have damaged them.
You can also locate a car key cutter that is specialized in the creation of replacement key fobs for the latest models of automobiles. These devices utilize the same technology as car key duplication machines, but can make up to 50 copies at a time. Some models feature a touchscreen for easier operation. They can also help you create smart keys, which are equipped with a transponder technology and open doors automatically.
A car key cutter is able to duplicate keys made of metal and transponder cards. Some keys come with remotes. A regular key has the same cut on both sides. A remote head is a combination of an ordinary key and a fob which has buttons to lock and unlock the car.
Modern vehicles are equipped with an anti-theft system that prevents the use of keys other than the ones supplied by the manufacturer on the ignition. This system relies upon an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computers. The car won't start if the chip is not programmed correctly. A certified auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you in a few minutes.