What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys aren't the type you can bring to a self-serve kiosk at the mall to get cut. They require specialized sidewinder equipment and are designed to match the specific locking cylinders in your car.

Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting car keys can save you money, time and stress.

Keys

Car key cutting is the process of making a new key for a vehicle. Professionals are usually the ones who do this since it requires special equipment to create a distinctive shape and ensure that it is a good fit for the locks. In addition, a professional can often provide a warranty for the work they do.

In the past keys for cars were simple. Modern technology has made them more complex. Many vehicles now use smart keys that come with encryption, as well as other security features to prevent theft. These features are intended to make it difficult for thieves to duplicate or alter the key. They also aid owners in keeping the track of who has used their vehicle.

Traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular design. They are much 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 kinds of keys can be used in the lock in any way. They can also be duplicated using the standard key machines that are found in hardware stores.

Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, and were primarily used by luxury car brands. The idea was to stop the theft of vehicles and the technology has been successfully used in various models. Laser cut keys are a lot thicker than conventional keys, and they have more grooves carved out in their shanks. The keys are more expensive to make, but are also more secure.

To cut a key with a laser the locksmith first decode an existing key in the store. Then, he or she sets the key cutting machine to match the cuts made in the key that was decoded, and car key cutter cuts the blade. This kind of key is harder to duplicate and is also more difficult to copy. It is imperative that the locksmith uses a manual machine that is of high quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines can also create keys, which means they can make a new key from one that was cut.

Tools

Car key cutting is more than just cutting a piece of metal it's an art form that guarantees security, efficiency and long-term durability. When keys are cut correctly, they ensure that they fit into the lock and won't harm it or the ignition. If you require a regular mechanical key or a transponder or smart key professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly.

To create a duplicate key the key is placed on the side of the machine and aligned by a special cutting tool. This serves as an example. Then a blank key is positioned on the other side of the machine, where it is aligned with a key guide to ensure both keys are in line during the duplication process. Both keys are cut at the same time, resulting in duplicates that are identical to the original.

When choosing the key cutter, look for one that offers several jaws that have different ways 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. Additionally, if you're using the machine to make keys for automobiles, such as transponder or remote head keys, make sure 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 duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut almost every type of key with the exception of high-security blanks. It is also suitable for mobile use which makes it a great choice for a beginner who would like to start a car key cutting business.

A high-end key cutting machine is expensive, but it's worth the cost because it allows you to design and cut keys using code including transponder and smart keys. It's also good for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chip keys. To clone or program high-security chip keys, you'll require a device that is able to communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Finding the appropriate equipment for your key cutting business will save time and cash in the end.

Cutting

The key duplicator is an instrument that duplicates keys with the same shape as the existing ones. The key that was originally used is placed on one side of the machine and aligned to the cutting tool. This serves as a template to design the new key. The blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine. A key guide is utilized to keep the two keys in line as they are cut to create a perfect duplicated new key.

While standard car keys can be cut using a key cutter, different types of keys require specialized equipment. Most newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that need to be programmed to start the engine. To cut these kinds 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 various kinds of keys, a car key cutter also must be able program the key in order to allow it to function with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key cutters available on the market each with its own unique set of features. The model you select will depend on the kind of key you're cutting as well as the number of copies you require at a time.

If you're looking to learn how to make your own keys, a car key cutter is a useful tool for your workshop. However, car key cutter you should be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can vary significantly. It is essential to purchase a machine that is made by a reputable industrial manufacturer with a long warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine you purchase is able to be easily repaired or replaced if necessary.

There are three primary types of key cutting machines Semi-automatic, manual and automated. 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 concentration. A good option is the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated machines are computer-driven and will do all the work for you. All you have to do is give them the information you need to accomplish using the software included with the machine.

Programming

If the key is equipped with a transponder it must be programmed to work with that particular vehicle. The procedure differs between brands and models however, it usually involves inserting the working key into ignition and leaving it for a short period of time. Then the new key needs to be inserted and left for a couple of seconds. This allows the computer in the car to recognize the key and start the car. You may also need to program your keyless entry remote if you have a newer model of car. This requires a sophisticated and expensive device.

Retailers are adding more car key duplication machines to their stores because customers demand them. These machines are easier to use and are more precise than manual machines used to cut keys. They also eliminate human mistakes, allowing you to cut keys accurately and quickly. They are great for those who have lost their keys or have damaged them.

There is also a car key cutter that is specialized in creating replacement key fobs for 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 even include touchscreens for convenient operation. They can also design smart keys that have a transponder to open doors automatically.

A car key cutter can duplicate both regular metal keys and transponder keys. Some keys come with a remote. A regular key cutting car has exactly the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is a combination of a normal key and a fob which includes buttons to lock and unlock the car.

Modern vehicles are equipped with an anti-theft system which blocks the use of keys cut for cars that are not those provided by the manufacturer in the ignition. This system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the computer in the car. The car won't start if the chip is not programmed correctly. A qualified auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you in just a few minutes.