What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys are not the type you can bring to a self-service kiosk in the mall to cut. They require specialized sidewinder cutting equipment, and are designed to work with the lock cylinder that is specific to your vehicle.

Understanding the distinction between car key duplication and cutting your car keys will save you time, money and stress in the near future.

Keys

The cutting process of a car key is to create a brand new car key. Professionals are usually the ones who do this since it requires specialized machinery to mark a key's distinctive shape and ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. A professional will often provide a warranty on the work they perform.

In the past keys for cars were easy to find. Modern technology has made them more complex. Smart keys are utilized in a variety of vehicles to deter theft. They are encrypted and come with other security measures. These features are intended to make it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or tamper the key. They can also help owners keep track of who used their vehicle.

The traditional keys for cars are flat and have a rectangular design. They are smaller than a sidewinder keys and feature the same cut on both sides. These keys are able to fit into any lock as they have the exact same cut on both sides. They can be duplicated with standard key machines that are available in hardware stores.

In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by high-end car manufacturers. The technology was successfully implemented in a variety of models to stop theft of cars. Laser cut keys have a stronger shank than traditional keys, and more grooves carved into the keys. They are more expensive to produce, but are also more secure.

To cut a laser cut key locksmiths must first decode the existing key in the shop. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting device to match the key's cuts and then cuts the blade. This type of key is much more difficult to duplicate, and takes longer time than a regular key. It is essential that the locksmith uses a manual machine of high quality, such as the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines can also create keys, which means that they can make a new key from one that has already been cut.

Tools

Cutting keys for cars is more simply a simple shape of metal. It's a skill that guarantees security and function. When keys are cut correctly, they'll fit in the lock and won't cause damage to the lock or the ignition. A professional will ensure that the key cutting cost is cut correctly, regardless of whether it's a key made of metal or smart or transponder.

To make a duplicate key, a key is placed on the side of the machine and aligned by a special cutting tool. This is used as an example. Then, a blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine, where it's aligned with an instrument guide to ensure both keys are in line during the duplication process. The two keys are cut at the same time to create duplicates that are identical to the original key.

When choosing the key cutter, look for one that offers several jaws that have different ways to hold the key. Two-way jaws are ideal to duplicate standard keys while four-way jaws are better for duplicating laser cut key blades. Also, if you'll be making keys for automobiles, such as remote head or transponder key ensure that there is enough space between the jaws to accommodate these types of key.

The right tool will assist you in establishing your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is a reasonable price and provides the ability to cut nearly every type of key, with the exception of high security blanks. The model is portable and is ideal for those looking to establish their own car key cutting business.

It's expensive to purchase a top-of-the-line machine for cutting keys however, the investment is worth it since it can cut and make keys using codes, including transponder and smart keys. It's also great for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other key chips. If you want to clone and program high-security chips however, you'll need an additional device that can communicate with the onboard system of your vehicle and read the unique identification number (VIN). Choosing the right equipment for your key cutting key business will save you time and money in the long run.

Cutting

The key duplicator is a device that duplicates keys in the same shape as existing ones. The original key is put on one side of the machine and lined up with the cutting tool, which serves as an example for the new key. The blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is used to keep the two keys in alignment as they are cut to create a perfect duplicated key.

While standard car keys can be cut with 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. Transponder key cutters are required to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the keys and then program it to the vehicle.

A car key cutter must be able to cut different kinds of keys, but also program them to work with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key cutters available on the market. Each one has distinct characteristics. The model you choose is based on the kind of key you're cutting and how many copies you need at a time.

If you're interested in learning how to make your own keys, a car key maker is a useful tool for your workshop. It is important to know that key cutting machines come in a wide range of quality. 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 is able to be easily repaired or replaced if needed.

There are 3 main types of key cutting machines: Manual, Semi-Automatic and Automatic. Manual machines require users to manually move keys across the cutter wheel and tracer, they are easy to use but do require your complete concentration. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are both good options. Automated Machines are computer-driven and do everything for you, all you have to do is to specify what you want them to do with the software that comes with the machine.

Programming

If the key is equipped with an electronic transponder, it needs to be programmed to work with that particular vehicle. The procedure varies between types and makes, but it usually involves inserting an operational key into the ignition and then leaving it in place for a few seconds. Then the new key needs to be inserted and left there for a few minutes. This allows the car to recognize the new key and allow it to start the vehicle. If you have a more recent model vehicle, you may also have to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more intricate and expensive device.

Retailers are adding more car key duplication machines to their stores because customers demand them. They are easy to use and more accurate than manual machines used to cut keys. They remove human error and allow for rapid and precise key cutting. These machines are perfect for people who have lost their keys or have damaged them.

You can also find car key cutters that specialize in the creation of replacement key fobs to fit the latest models of automobiles. These devices utilize the same technology as key duplication machines but can make up 50 copies at once. Some models come with touchscreens for better operation. They can also help you create smart keys that have transponder technology and open doors automatically.

A car key cutter can be used to duplicate keys made of metal and transponder cards. Some keys come with a remote. A normal key has the exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is an amalgamation of a regular key and fob that has buttons to lock and unlock the car.

The majority of modern vehicles are equipped with an anti-theft device that prohibits keys other than those from the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computer. The car won't start in the event that the chip is not properly programmed. In just a few minutes, a professional auto locksmith will program a new key for your car.