What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys aren't ones you can bring to a self-service kiosk at the mall to be cut. They require specialized sidewinder key cutting equipment and are specifically designed to work with the lock cylinder that is specific to your car.
Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting your car keys 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 vehicle. Professionals are typically the ones who perform this because it requires specially designed equipment to mark a key's unique shape and ensure it is compatible with the locks. Professionals usually provide a warranty on the work they do.
In the past keys for cars were simple. Modern technology has made them more complicated. Smart keys are used in many vehicles to prevent theft. They contain encryption and other security measures. These features are designed to make it difficult for thieves to replicate or tamper with the key and also assist the owner to keep an eye on who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars are rectangular and flat design. key cutting services are a lot thinner than sidewinder keys and they have the same cuts on both sides of the blade. Because they have the identical cut on both sides, these types of keys can fit in locks in any way. These keys can be duplicated with the standard key machines that are that are available in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser-cut keys were introduced by high-end car manufacturers. The aim was to stop the theft of vehicles, and the technology has been successfully used in a variety of models. Laser cut keys have a more robust shank than traditional keys, and more grooves cut into the keys. The keys are more costly to make, but are also more secure.
To cut a laser-cut keys the locksmith must first decode an existing key in the store. He or she then sets the key cutting machine to match the cut marks in the decoded key and then cuts the blade. This type of key takes longer to copy and is more difficult. It is essential 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 create keys, which means that they can create a new key from a key that has been cut.
Tools
Cutting keys for cars is more than just a simple metal shape. It's a technique that ensures security and functionality. Properly cut keys guarantee that they fit in the lock and won't harm it or the ignition. No matter if you need a standard mechanical key or a smart or transponder key, a professional will make sure that it's cut correctly.
To create duplicate keys, a key is placed on the machine's side and aligned by a special cutting tool. This serves as a template. A blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine and aligned to a key guide. This keeps both keys in line during duplication. Both keys are cut at the same time, resulting in duplicates that are identical to the original.
Find key cutters that have multiple jaws to grip the key. A two-way jaw is ideal for duplicate keys of standard size, while a four-way jaw is better for duplicating key blades cut by laser. Also, if you'll be making keys for automobiles, such as transponder or remote head keys ensure that there's enough space between jaws for these kinds of keys.
The right tool will aid you in starting your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is a reasonable price and provides the ability to cut nearly every type of key, with the exception of high security blanks. It is also suitable for use on mobile devices which makes it a great choice for a beginner who would like to start a key cutting business.
It's expensive to invest in a premium machine for cutting keys however, the investment is worth it because it can cut and make the majority of keys with codes, including transponder and smart keys. It's also useful for programming and cloning RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chip keys. If you want to program and clone high-security chips, however, you'll need an additional device that is able to communicate with the vehicle's onboard system and identify the unique identification number (VIN). The right equipment will help you save time and money.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool that duplicates keys in the same form as the original ones. The original key is put on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool, which serves as an outline for the new key. The blank key is then positioned on the opposite side of the machine. Key guides are used to keep the two keys in line as they are cut, resulting in a perfectly duplicated key.
Other types of keys need special equipment. Keys for standard cars can be cut using a key cutter. Most newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that have to be programmed to start the engine. To cut these keys, you need transponder key cutters that is capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
In addition to being able to cut different types of keys, the car key cutter must be able program the key in order to make it function properly with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key-cutters on the market. Each has distinct features. The model you select is based on the type of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you need at once.
A car key cutter is a great tool to keep in your workshop if you want to master the art of making keys. You should be aware, however, that key cutting machines are available in a wide range of high-quality. It is crucial to purchase the machine by a reputable industrial manufacturer and comes with a solid warranty. Also, make sure that the machine is easily replaced or repaired in the event of need.
There are three main kinds of key cutting machines available Manual, Semi-Automatic and Automatic. Manual machines require the user to manually move keys around the key tracer wheel as well as the cutter wheel. key cut service are simple to operate but require your full focus. The best option is the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automatic Machines are computer driven and will do everything for you, all you need to do is to specify what you want them to do using the software program that comes with the machine.
Programming
If the key is equipped with an electronic transponder, it needs to be programmed to work with the specific vehicle. The procedure varies between models and makes however, the process generally involves inserting a working key into the ignition and then leaving it there for a couple of seconds. Then the new key has to be inserted and left there for another few minutes. This allows the car's computer to recognize the key and start the vehicle. If you have a newer model car, you may also need to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complicated and expensive device.
Retailers are increasingly adding car key duplication machines to their stores due to the fact that customers are looking for them. They are easy to use and more precise than manual machines for cutting keys. They also eliminate human error, making it possible to cut a key accurately and quickly. These machines are ideal for people who have lost or have damaged keys.
You can also find car key cutters who specialize in the creation of key fobs for replacement that fit the latest models of automobiles. These devices employ the same technology as the car key duplication machines, but can produce up to 50 copies at once. Some models have touchscreens for better operation. They can also create smart keys that include an RFID chip that allows doors to open automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate regular keys made of metal and transponder keys. Some have remotes. A standard key is a key that has the same exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a normal key and a fob that includes buttons to lock and unlock the car.
Modern cars come with an anti-theft system which prevents the use of keys other than those provided by the manufacturer in the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the car's computer. If the chip is not properly programmed the car won't start. In a matter of minutes, a qualified auto locksmith will program a new key for your vehicle.