What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys are not the type you can take to a self-service kiosk at the mall to cut. They require specialized sidewinder equipment, and are designed to be compatible with the lock cylinders of your vehicle.
Understanding the difference between duplication of car keys and cutting keys will save you money, time and stress.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of making the key for a car. This is usually performed by a professional, since it requires specialized equipment to trace the unique profile of the key and ensure that it fits into all of the locks correctly. Professionals usually offer a guarantee on the work they do.
In the past keys for cars were simple. Modern technology has made them more complicated. Smart keys are found in many vehicles to prevent theft. They come with encryption and other security measures. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or alter the keys and can aid the owner in keeping the track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular shape. They are thinner than sidewinder keys, and feature the same cuts on both sides of the blade. These keys are able to fit into any lock since they have the exact cut on both sides. They can be duplicated with regular key machines found in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by luxury automobile manufacturers. The goal was to prevent the theft of vehicles and the technology has been successfully deployed in many models. Laser cut keys are thicker than conventional keys, and they have more grooves carved out in their shanks. They are slightly more expensive to produce however they are more secure.
In order to cut the key with a laser locksmiths must first decode the key in the shop. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting machine to match the key's cut and then cuts the blade. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate and takes longer time than a regular key. It is essential 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 also can create keys from existing keys, i.e. they can create new keys using an existing key that has been cut.
Tools
Car key cutting is more than cutting a piece of metal It's an art that ensures security, functionality and durability. Correctly cut keys ensure that they will fit into the lock, and won't cause damage to the lock or the ignition. No matter if you need 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 original one is positioned on the duplicator's side and aligned with a specialized cutting tool to serve as an example for the new key. A blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine, aligned to the key guide. This will keep both keys in alignment during duplication. Both keys are cut simultaneously and produce duplicates that are identical to the original.
When choosing the right key cutter, search for one that offers various jaws and different ways to grip the key. A two-way jaw is perfect for duplicate keys of standard size, while four-way jaws are better for duplicates of laser cut key blades. Also, if you'll be using the machine to make keys for cars, such as a transponder keys or remote heads ensure that there is enough space between the jaws for these styles of keys.
The right tool can aid you in starting your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is affordable and can cut nearly every type of key, with the exception of high-security blanks. It is portable and is perfect for those who want to start their own car key cutting business.
Investing in a high-end key cutting machine can be expensive, but it's well worth the cost since it will allow you to create and cut the majority of keys with code including transponder and smart keys. It's also useful for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chips keys. To program or clone high-security chip keys, you'll need a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Choosing the right equipment for your key cutting business will save you time and cash in the end.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool that cuts new keys to match the shape of existing ones. The key from the original is placed on one side of machine and aligned with the cutting tool. This serves as a template for the new key. The blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is utilized to keep the two keys in line while they are cut and shaped, creating a flawlessly duplicated new key.
Other types of keys need special machinery. Keys for standard cars can be made with the use of a key cutter. The majority of newer cars come with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that have to be programmed to begin the vehicle. Transponder key cutters are needed to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key and program it for the vehicle.
A car key cutter must be able to cut different types of keys but also to program them to work with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key cutters available on the market. Each has distinct features. The model you pick depends on the type of key you're cutting and how many keys you have to copy at once.
If you're interested in learning to make your own keys using a car key cutter, it could be a great tool for your workshop. But, be aware that the quality of key cutting equipment can differ significantly. It is important to buy an item that is manufactured by a reputable industry manufacturer with a long warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine you purchase can be easily repaired or replaced in the event of need.
There are three primary types of key cutting machine: Manual, semi-automatic and automated. Manual machines require you to manually move keys across the key tracer wheel as well as the cutter wheel. They are easy to operate however they require your complete concentration. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are excellent choices. Automated machines are computer controlled and do everything for you, all you need to do is specify what you want them to do with 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 an operational key into the ignition and leaving it there for a short period of time. Then insert the new key and leave it there for a couple of minutes. This procedure will allow the car to recognize the new key and allow it to start the vehicle. If you have a more recent model vehicle, you may be required to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a sophisticated and expensive device.
Retailers are progressively adding automobile key duplication machines into their stores because customers want them. They 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 those who have lost their keys or have damaged them.
There is also a car key cutter that is specialized in the creation of replacement key fobs for the most recent models of cars. These devices employ the same technology as the car key duplication machines but can create up 50 copies at once. Some models even have touchscreens for efficient operation. They can also assist in creating smart keys, which have transponder technology and open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate regular metal keys and transponder keys. Some come with a remote head. A standard key is a key that has the exact cuts 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.
Modern vehicles are fitted with an anti-theft system that blocks keys other than those from the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. car key cutting price is based on an electronic chip to communicate with the car's computers. The car will not start in the event that the chip is not programmed properly. In a matter of minutes, a qualified auto locksmith can programme a new key to your vehicle.