What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys cannot be cut at a self-service kiosk located in the mall. They require specialized sidewinder key cutting equipment, and are designed to fit into the lock cylinder specific to your car.
Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting car keys can save you money, time and stress.
Keys
The cutting process of a car key is used to create a new vehicle key. Professionals are usually the ones who cut keys since it requires specialized machinery to mark a key's unique shape and ensure that it is a good fit for the locks. In addition, professionals can usually offer a warranty on the work they perform.
In the past keys for cars were simple. Modern technology has made them more complex. Many vehicles now use smart keys that contain encryption, as well as other security features to prevent theft. These features are designed to make it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or alter the key and can help the owner keep track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars are rectangular and flat design. They are thinner than sidewinder keys and feature the same cuts on both sides of the blade. Because they have the identical cut on both sides, these types of keys are able to fit into a lock either way. These keys can be duplicated with standard key machines that are available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were first introduced in the early 1990s, mostly by luxury car brands. The technology was successfully incorporated in various models to deter vehicles from being stolen. Laser cut keys have a stronger shank than traditional keys, and more grooves carved into them. They are a bit more expensive to manufacture however they are more secure.
To cut a laser-cut key the locksmith first decode an existing key in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting device to match the key's cut and cuts the blade. This type of key takes longer to duplicate and is also more difficult to copy. It is important that the locksmith has an efficient manual machine such as the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura auto key cutting and Futura Pro. These machines can also make keys from existing keys, i.e. they can create new keys using an existing key that has been cut.
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Car key cutting is more than just shaping a piece of metal it's an art form that guarantees security, efficiency and durability. Properly-cut keys ensure that they'll fit inside the lock and won't cause harm to it or the ignition. Whether you need a standard mechanical key or a smart or transponder key, a professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly.
To create a new key, an existing key is placed on the duplicator's side and lined up with a specialized cutting tool to create a template for the new key. Then the blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. There, it is aligned using key guides to ensure both keys are in line during the duplication process. Both keys are cut simultaneously, resulting in duplicates that are identical to the original.
When you are choosing the key cutter, look for one that has multiple jaws with different options to hold the key. Two-way jaws are ideal for duplicate keys of standard size, while a four-way jaw is better to duplicate laser cut key blades. Additionally, if you're making automotive keys like remote head or transponder key, make sure that there's enough space between the jaws for these kinds of keys.
The right tool can help you get started in the business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is affordable and provides the ability to cut nearly any kind of key except for high-security blanks. The model is portable and is perfect for those who wish to establish their own car key cutting business.
It's costly to invest in a high-end machine for cutting keys but the investment is worth it since you can cut and create the majority of keys with codes, such as transponder and smart keys. It is also able to clone and program RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. To program or clone high-security chip keys cut and programmed near me, you will need a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Finding the best equipment for your key cutting car keys near me business can save you time and cash in the end.
Cutting
The key duplicator tool is a machine which cuts keys to match the shape of the ones that are already in use. The original key is placed on one side of the machine and lined up with the cutting tool to serve as an outline for the new key. The blank key is placed on the other side of the machine. A key guide is used to keep the two keys aligned as they are cut and shaped, creating a flawlessly duplicated key.
Other types of keys need special equipment. Keys for cars that are standard can be made with a key cutter. Many modern cars are equipped with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that have to be programmed to start the vehicle. Transponder key cutters are required to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key and program it for the vehicle.
In addition being able to cut different types of keys, car key cutters also must be able to program the key to make it function properly with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key cutters available on the market. Each comes with distinct characteristics. The model you pick will depend on the type of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you'll need at once.
If you're interested in learning how to make your own keys, a car key maker can be a valuable tool in your workshop. However, you must be aware that the quality of key cutting equipment can differ greatly. It is important to purchase an item from a reputable manufacturer that has a solid guarantee. It is also important to ensure that the machine is easily replaced or repaired should it be required.
There are three main types of key cutting machines that are available: Manual, Semi-Automatic and Automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move keys between the cutter wheel and tracer, they are easy to use, but they require your full concentration. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are both good options. Automatic Machines are computer driven and can do everything for you. All you need to do is to tell them what to do with the software that comes with the machine.
Programming
If the key has a transponder it must be programmed to work with that particular vehicle. The procedure differs between models and makes and models, but generally involves inserting the key that is currently in use into the ignition and letting it sit for a short period of time. Then the new key needs to be put in and left for a few seconds. This allows the computer in the car to recognize the key and start the vehicle. It is also possible to program your keyless entry remote if have a more recent model of vehicle. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. They are simple to use and more accurate than manual key cutting machines. They remove human error and permit rapid and precise key cutting. These machines are ideal for those who have lost their keys or have damaged them.
There are also car key cutters that specialize in creating key fobs that can be used as replacements to fit the most recent models of cars. These devices use the same technology as car key duplication machines, but can create up to 50 copies at once. Some models come with touchscreens to make it easier to operate. They can also design smart keys that include a transponder to open doors automatically.
A car key cutter is able to duplicate keys made of metal and transponder cards. Some have a remote. A regular key is a key that has the same exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of regular keys and a fob which has buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Most modern vehicles are outfitted with an anti-theft system that prevents keys other than those supplied by the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip that communicates with the computer in the car. If the chip isn't properly programmed and the car is not programmed correctly, it will not start. In just a few minutes, a qualified auto locksmith can create a new key for your car.