What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys are not the kind you can simply bring to a self-service kiosk in the mall to be cut. They require specialized sidewinder key-cutting equipment and are designed to fit into the lock cylinder that is specific to your vehicle.
Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting keys will save you money, time and stress.
Keys
The cutting process of a car key is used to create a new vehicle key. Professionals are typically the ones who perform this, as it takes specially designed equipment to trace a key's unique shape and ensure it is a good fit for the locks. A professional will often offer a guarantee on the work they do.
In the past keys for cars were easy, but modern technologies have made them more complicated. A lot of vehicles today use smart keys that have encryption and other security features to guard against theft. These features are designed to make it difficult for thieves to duplicate or tamper the key. They can also aid owners in keeping track of who used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars have a rectangular and flat form. They are thinner than sidewinder keys and have the same cut on both sides. They can fit into any lock since they have the exact same cut on both sides. They can be duplicated with traditional key machines that can be found in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by luxury car manufacturers. The technology was successfully incorporated in various models to deter theft of cars. Laser cut keys have a more robust shank than traditional keys and more grooves that are carved into them. The keys are more costly to produce, but are also more secure.
To cut a key with a laser the locksmith must 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 kind of key is more difficult to duplicate and it takes a longer time to copy than a regular key. It is crucial that the locksmith is equipped with an excellent manual machine, like the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines also can create keys, meaning they can create a new key from a key that was cut.
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Cutting keys for cars is more than just a simple metal shape. It's a skill that guarantees security and function. Properly cut keys guarantee that they fit in the lock and won't harm it or the ignition. A professional will ensure the key is cut correctly, regardless of whether it's a mechanical key or transponder or smart key.
To make a new key, an original key is placed on the duplicator's side and lined up with an specialized cutting tool to serve as an outline for the new key. Then, a blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine where it's aligned with a key guide to ensure that both keys remain in line during the duplication process. Both keys are then cut at the same time to create duplicates that are identical to the original key.
Look for key cutters that have multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. A two-way jaw is ideal for duplicating standard keys, while the four-way jaw is ideal for duplicates of key blades that are laser cut. If you intend to use the machine to duplicate keys for automotive use, such as remote heads or transponder keys ensure that there enough space between the jaws.
The right tool will help you start your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut nearly every type of key aside from high-security blanks. This model is mobile and is perfect for those who wish to start their own key cutting business.
It's costly to invest in a high-end machine for cutting keys, but the investment is worth it because it can cut and make keys using codes, including transponder as well as smart keys. It can also be used to clone and program RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. If you're looking to clone and program high-security chips you'll require a second device that is able to communicate with the vehicle's onboard system and read the unique identification number (VIN). Finding the right equipment for your key cutting business can save you time and money in the long run.
Cutting
The key duplicator tool is a machine which cuts keys to match the shape of the existing ones. The original key is positioned on one side of the machine, and then lined up with the cutting tool, which serves as an outline for the new key. The blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is employed to align the two keys as they are being cut. This results in an exact replica of the new key.
While car keys that are standard can be cut using a key cutter, other kinds of keys require special equipment. Many modern cars are equipped with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that must be programmed to start 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.
In addition being able to cut various types of keys, car key cutters also has to be able to program the key to allow it to function with the ignition system. There are many models of car key-cutters available on the market. Each comes with its own unique features. The model you select will depend on the type of key you are cutting as well as the number of keys you have to duplicate at once.
A car key cutter is an excellent tool to keep in your workshop if you wish to learn how to create keys. You must be aware, however, that key cutting machines are available in a wide range of high-quality. It is crucial to buy a machine from a reputable manufacturer that offers a long-term warranty. You should also make sure that the machine can be easily replaced or repaired in the event of need.
There are three main kinds of key cutting machines Semi-automatic, manual and automated. Manual machines require you to manually move keys along the key tracer wheel as well as the cutter wheel. They are simple to operate but require your full attention. A good option is the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated Machines are computer-driven and can do everything for you, all you have to do is tell them what to do using the software program that comes with the machine.
Programming
If the key is equipped with a transponder, it must be programmed to work with that specific car. The procedure varies between models and makes however, it generally involves inserting a working key into the ignition and then leaving it there for a short period of time. Then you insert the new one and leave it in place for a few minutes. This 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 vehicle. This requires a more intricate and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are easier to use and are more precise than manual machines to cut keys. These machines remove human error and provide precise and fast key cutting. These machines are perfect for those who have lost or have damaged their keys.
There are also car key cutters that specialize in the production of key fobs for replacement that match the latest models of vehicles. These devices use the exact same technology used in duplication machines for car keys, but can create up to 50 copies at once. Some models even include touchscreens for convenient operation. They can also design smart keys that have an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate regular keys made of metal as well as transponder keys. Some also include a remote head. A standard key is a key that has the exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is an amalgamation of a regular key and a fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern cars are equipped with a security system that prevents the use of keys that are not the ones provided by the manufacturer on the ignition. This system relies upon an electronic chip for communication with the computer in the car. If the chip is not properly programmed, the car will not start. In a matter of minutes, a certified auto locksmith will create a new key for your car.