What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys are not ones you can bring to a self-service kiosk at the mall to get cut. They require specialized sidewinder key cutting equipment and are specifically designed to fit into the lock cylinder that is specific to your vehicle.

Understanding the difference between duplication of car keys and cutting keys will save you time, money and stress.

Keys

The cutting process of a car key is used to create a new key for the vehicle. Professionals are typically the ones who perform this, as it takes specialized machinery to trace a key car cutting's unique shape and ensure it fits into the locks correctly. Additionally, a professional can often provide a warranty for the work that they do.

In the past keys for cars were simple. Modern technology has made them more complicated. Smart keys are found in a variety of vehicles to deter theft. They are encrypted and come with other security measures. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to replicate or alter the key and also assist the owner to keep an eye on who has used their vehicle.

Traditional keys for cars have a rectangular and flat form. They are thinner than the sidewinder keys and feature the same cut on both sides. Because they have the identical cut on both sides, these types of keys are able to fit into a lock either way. These keys can also be duplicated using traditional key machines that can be found in hardware stores.

Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, mainly by luxury car brands. The technology was successfully implemented in a variety of models to stop cars being stolen. Laser cut keys are a lot thicker than traditional keys, and they have more carved grooves in their shanks. They are more expensive to manufacture, but they are also more secure.

To cut a key with a laser the locksmith must first decode a key that is already in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting machine to match the key's cut and then cuts the blade. This kind of key is more difficult to copy and is more difficult. It is imperative that the locksmith has 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 ones, i.e. they can create new keys using 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 form that guarantees security, efficiency, and longevity. Properly cut keys guarantee that they fit into the lock and won't damage it or the ignition. Whether you need a regular mechanical key or a transponder, smart or smart key, a professional will ensure that the key is cut correctly.

To create a new key, an original one is placed on the opposite side of the duplicator and aligned with an specialized cutting tool to serve as an outline for the new key. Then a blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine, where it's aligned with key guides to ensure that both keys remain in line during the duplication process. The two keys are cut at the same time to create duplicates that match the original key.

Find key cutters with multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. A two-way key cutter is ideal for duplicates of traditional key blades, while the 4-way model is ideal for cutting keys using lasers. Also, if you'll be using the machine to make keys for automobiles, such as remote head or transponder key ensure that there's enough space between the jaws for these styles of key.

The right tool will assist you in establishing your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut nearly every kind of key, with the exception of high-security blanks. This model is also suitable for mobile use which makes it a great option for someone who is just starting out and would like to start a car key cutting business.

It can be expensive to invest in a high-end machine for cutting keys however, the investment is worth it because it can cut and make the majority of keys with codes, including transponder as well as smart keys. It can also be used to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. If you want to program and clone high-security chips 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). Choosing 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 duplicates keys in the same shape as the existing ones. The key from the original is placed on one side of machine and then aligned with the cutting tool. This serves as a template to design the new key. The blank key will then be positioned on opposite side of the machine. A key guide is used to align the two keys while they are being cut. This produces an exact replica of the new key.

While standard car keys can be cut with the key cutter, other kinds of keys require special equipment. 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 keys, you require a transponder key cutter capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.

In addition being able cut different types of keys, car key cutters also must be able program the key in order to make it function properly with the ignition system. There are many different models of car key cutters on the market each with its own distinct set of features. The model you choose depends on the kind of key you're cutting and the number of keys you have to copy at once.

If you're interested in learning to make your own keys, a car key maker can be a valuable tool for your workshop. You must be aware that key cutting equipment comes in a wide range of high-quality. It is important to buy an item that is manufactured by a reputable industry manufacturer and comes with a solid warranty. You should also make sure that the machine is easily repaired or replaced should it be required.

There are 3 main types of key cutting machines that are 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. They are simple to operate, but require your full attention. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are excellent choices. Automated Machines are computer-driven and can do everything for you. All you need to do is to specify what you want them to do with the software program that is included with the machine.

Programming

If the key is equipped with an electronic transponder, it needs to be programmed to work with that specific vehicle. The process differs between different types and makes however, it generally involves inserting a working key into the ignition and then leaving it in place for a couple of seconds. Then, insert the new key and leave it for a couple of seconds. This allows the computer of the car to recognize this key and start the vehicle. If you have a newer model vehicle, you may be required to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complex and expensive device.

Customers are demanding more car key duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are simple to use and more precise than manual key cutting machines. They also eliminate human error, making it possible to cut a key accurately and quickly. These machines are ideal for people who are lost or have damaged their keys.

You can also find car key cutters that specialize in creating replacement key fobs to be compatible with the latest models of vehicles. These devices employ the same technology as key duplication machines but can produce up 50 copies at a time. Some models feature touchscreens to make it easier to operate. They can also make smart keys that include a transponder to open doors automatically.

A car key cutter can duplicate regular keys made of metal as well as transponder keys. Some have remotes. A normal key has the exact same cut on both sides. A remote head is a combination of a normal key and a fob, that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.

Most modern vehicles are outfitted with a type of anti-theft system that blocks keys other than those supplied by the manufacturer to be used in the ignition. This system relies upon an electronic chip to communicate with the car's computers. The car won't start when the chip isn't properly programmed. A certified auto locksmith can program a new car key for you in just a few minutes.