What Is Car Key Cutting?

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

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

Keys

The cutting process of the car key is to create a new key for the vehicle. It is usually done by a professional, as it requires specialized machinery to trace the key's unique profile and make sure it fits in all locks in the right way. In addition, professionals can usually offer a warranty on the work they perform.

In the past, car keys were simple however, modern technology has made them more complicated. Smart keys are found in many vehicles to prevent theft. They contain encryption and other security measures. These features are intended to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or modify the key. They also help owners keep the track of who has used their vehicle.

Traditional car keys have a rectangular and flat form. They are a lot thinner than sidewinder keys and feature the same cuts on both sides of the blade. These keys can fit into any lock as they share the same cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated using standard key machines that are available in hardware stores.

Laser cut keys were introduced in the early 1990s, mostly by luxury car brands. The idea was to stop cars from being stolen and the technology has been used successfully in various models. Laser cut keys have a thicker shank than traditional keys and more grooves that are carved into the keys. They are a bit more expensive to make, but they are also more secure.

To cut a key with a laser, the locksmith must first decode an existing key in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting machine to match the key's cut and cuts the blade. This kind of key takes longer to copy and is more difficult to copy. It is crucial that the locksmith has an efficient manual machine such as the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines can also create keys, which means that they can create a new key from one that was cut.

Tools

Cutting car keys is more than simply a simple shape of metal. It's a technique that guarantees security and efficiency. When keys are cut correctly, they ensure that they fit in the lock and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. A professional will ensure the key is cut correctly, no matter if it's a mechanical or transponder or smart key.

To make a new key, an existing one is positioned on the opposite side of the duplicator and aligned using an specialized cutting tool to create an outline for the new key. A blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine, and aligned to the key guide. This will keep both keys aligned during the duplication. Both keys are cut simultaneously, resulting in duplicates that are identical to the original.

Find key cutters with multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. A two-way key cutter is ideal for duplicates of standard key blades, while a 4-way one is better for cutting keys using lasers. If you intend to use the machine to duplicate keys from automobiles such as transponder keys or remote heads make sure there enough space between the jaws.

The right tool can help you get started in the business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is a reasonable price and has the capability to cut almost every kind of key, excluding high-security blanks. This model is also suited for mobile use and is a good option for a novice who would like to begin a car key cutting near me double sided key cutting near me cutting business.

It's expensive to invest in a high-end machine for cutting keys but the investment is worthwhile because it can cut and make most keys using codes, including transponder as well as smart keys. It's also useful for programming and cloning RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chip keys. If you're looking to clone and program high-security chips, you'll need an additional device that can 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 is a tool that duplicates keys with the same shape as the existing keys. The original key is positioned on one side of the machine, and then lined up with the cutting tool, which serves as a template for the new key. The blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine. A key guide is used to align the two keys as they are being cut. This produces a perfect replica of the key.

While standard car keys can be cut using a key cutter, different types of keys require specialized equipment. The majority of newer cars come with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that must be programmed to allow the start of the vehicle. Transponder key cutters are required to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the keys and program it for the vehicle.

A car key cutter must be able to not only cut various types of keys, but also program them to work with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key-cutters on the market. Each comes with distinct characteristics. The model you select depends on what kind of key you're cutting as well as the number of copies you require simultaneously.

If you're interested in learning how to make your own keys, a car key cutter is a useful tool for your workshop. But, be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can differ significantly. It is essential to purchase the machine from a reliable manufacturer that has a solid warranty. You should also make sure that the machine is easily repaired or replaced should it be required.

There are three primary types of key cutting machines: Manual, semi-automatic and automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move keys along the key tracer wheel and 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. 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 do using the software included with the machine.

Programming

If the key is equipped with a transponder it must be programmed to work with that specific car. The process differs between different models and makes however, it generally involves inserting a working key into ignition and then leaving it for a short period of time. Then you insert the new one and leave it in place for a few seconds. This allows the computer in the car to recognize the key and begin the car. If you own a newer model vehicle, you may also have to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.

Customers are demanding more car key duplication machines in retail stores. They are easy to use and more precise than manual machines for cutting keys. They eliminate human error and allow for rapid and precise key cutting. These machines are ideal for people who have lost their keys or damaged them.

There are also car key cutters who specialize in the creation of key fobs that can be used as replacements to match the most recent models of cars. These devices employ the same technology as duplication machines for car keys, but are able to produce up to 50 copies simultaneously. Some models have touchscreens for better operation. They can also design smart keys with an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.

A car key cutter can duplicate both regular keys made of metal and transponder keys. Some also include remote heads. A regular key has the same cut on both sides. A remote head is an amalgamation of a regular key and a fob that includes buttons to lock and unlock the car.

Modern cars come with a security system that prevents the use of keys other than those provided by the manufacturer on the ignition. This system relies upon an electronic chip that communicates with the computer in the car. If the chip is not properly programmed and the car is not programmed correctly, it will not start. A professional auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you within a few minutes.