What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys aren't the type you can bring to a self-service kiosk in the mall to be cut. They require specialized sidewinder key cutting equipment and are specifically designed to work in the lock cylinder that is specific to your vehicle.
Understanding the distinction between duplicate car keys 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 vehicle. Professionals are typically the ones who perform this because it requires special equipment to mark a key's distinctive shape and ensure that it is compatible with the locks. In addition professionals often provide a warranty for the work that they do.
In the past keys for cars were easy to find. Modern technology has made them more complicated. Smart keys are found 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 duplicate or alter the key. They can also help owners keep the track of who has used their vehicle.
The traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular form. They are much thinner than sidewinder keys and have the same cut on both sides of the blade. Since they share the same cut on both sides, these types of keys can be used in a lock either way. They can be duplicated using the standard key machines that are found in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were first introduced in the early 1990s, mostly by luxury car manufacturers. The idea was to stop cars from being stolen and the technology has been successfully used in a variety of models. Laser cut keys have a stronger shank than traditional keys and more grooves that are carved into them. They are slightly more expensive to manufacture, but they are also more secure.
To cut a laser-cut keys the locksmith first decode an existing key in the store. Then, he or she sets the key cutting machine to match the cut marks in the key that was decoded, and cuts the blade. This type of key is much more difficult to duplicate and it takes a longer time than a regular key. It is crucial that the locksmith has a manual machine of high quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines also can create keys from existing keys, i.e. they can create new keys from an existing key that has been cut.
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Car key cutting is more than shaping a piece of metal It's an art that guarantees security, efficiency and durability. When keys are cut correctly, they'll fit in the lock, and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. If you require a traditional mechanical key or a transponder or smart key, a professional will ensure that it's cut properly.
To create a new key, an existing one is placed on the opposite side of the duplicator and aligned using an specialized cutting tool to serve as a template for the new key. A blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine, aligned to the key guide. This keeps both keys aligned during the duplication. Both keys are cut simultaneously which results in duplicates that are identical to the original.
Look for a key cutter that has multiple jaws to grip the key. A two-way jaw is ideal to duplicate standard keys while a four-way jaw is better to duplicate key blades cut by laser. If you plan to make use of the machine to duplicate automotive keys such as remote heads or transponder keys ensure that there is 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 cuts almost any type of key, except for high-security blanks. It is portable and is ideal for those who want to start their own key cutting business.
It's costly to invest in a high-end machine to cut keys, but it's worth it since you can cut and originate 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'll require a device that is able to communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Getting the right equipment for your key cutting business can save you time and money in the long run.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a device that duplicates keys with the same shape as existing ones. The original key is placed on one side of machine and aligned to the cutting tool. This is used as a template for the new key. The blank key will be placed on the opposite side of machine. A key guide is used to ensure that the two keys while they are being cut. This produces a perfect replica of the key.
While standard car keys can be cut using the key cutter, other types of keys require specialized equipment. 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 types of keys, you will require transponder key cutters that can trace the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
In addition being able cut different types of keys, car key cutters also has to be able to program the key in order to ensure it works with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key cutters available on the market. Each comes with distinct features. The model you select is based on the kind of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you'll need at a time.
If you're looking to learn how to make your own keys using a car key cutter, it could be a great tool in your workshop. It is important to know, however, that key cutting equipment comes in a wide range of high-quality. It is crucial to buy an item from a reputable manufacturer that has a solid guarantee. Also, make sure that the machine can be easily replaced or repaired should it be required.
There are three primary types of key cutting machines The three main types are manual, semi-automatic and automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move keys across the key tracer wheel as well as the cutter wheel. They are simple to operate, but require your complete concentration. A good choice would be the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automatic Machines are computer driven and can do everything for you. All you have to do is specify what you want them to do with the software that comes with the machine.
Programming
If a key is equipped with transponder, it has to be programmed for the particular car. The procedure varies between makes and models however, the process generally involves inserting a working key into ignition and leaving it in place for a couple of seconds. Then, insert the new key and leave it in place for a couple of seconds. This procedure allows the car to recognize the new key and allows it to start the car. It is also possible to program your keyless entry remote if you have a more recent model of car. This requires a complex and expensive device.
Customers are demanding more car key duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are simpler to use and are more precise than manual machines to cut keys. They eliminate human error and permit accurate and quick key cutting. These machines are perfect for people who have lost or have damaged keys.
There is also a car key cutter that specializes in creating replacement key fobs for the most recent models of cars. These devices employ the same technology as the car key duplication machines, but can produce up 50 copies at once. Some models even include touchscreen displays for more efficient operation. They can also help you create smart keys that have an electronic transponder that opens doors in a controlled manner.
A car key cutter can duplicate both regular metal keys and transponder keys. Some come with a remote head. A normal key has the same cuts on both sides. mobile car key cutters is a combination of a regular key and a fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern cars are equipped with an anti-theft system which prohibits the use of keys other than the ones supplied by the manufacturer inside the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computers. The car won't start if the chip is not properly programmed. A certified auto locksmith can program a new car key for you within a few minutes.