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 work with the lock cylinder 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 new vehicle key. Professionals are typically the ones who cut keys because it requires special equipment to mark a key's distinctive shape and ensure that it is compatible with the locks. Additionally professionals often provide a warranty for the work they perform.
In the past keys for cars were easy to find. Modern technology has made them more complicated. Many vehicles now use smart keys that contain encryption and other security features to guard against theft. These features are designed to make it more difficult for thieves to replicate or tamper with the key, and they can also assist the owner to keep the track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular design. They are much thinner than sidewinder keys, and they feature the same cuts on both sides of the blade. Since they share the identical cut on both sides, these kinds of keys can be used in the lock in any way. These keys can be duplicated using standard key machines available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the early 1990s, mostly 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 the keys. The keys are more expensive to make, but are also more secure.
In order to cut keys with lasers, a locksmith must first decode the existing key in the shop. Then, he or she sets the key cutting machine to match the cuts in the key decoded, and cuts the blade. This type of key is harder to copy and is more difficult. It is essential 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 can also create keys, which means they can make a key from an existing one that has been cut.
Tools
Cutting keys for cars is more than just a simple metal shape. It's a skill that guarantees security and efficiency. When keys are cut correctly, they ensure that they fit into the lock and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. No matter if you need a traditional mechanical key or a transponder, smart or smart key, a professional will make sure that it's cut correctly.
To make a brand new key, a previous one is placed on the duplicator's side and aligned with an instrument designed for cutting to serve as a template for the new key. A blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine, and aligned to a key guide. This will keep both keys aligned during the duplication. Both keys are cut at the same time, resulting in duplicates that are identical to the original.
When selecting the right key cutter, search for one that has various jaws and different ways to grip the key. A two-way jaw is perfect for duplicate keys of standard size, while the four-way jaw is ideal for duplicates of key blades that are laser cut. Also, if you'll be using the machine to make automotive keys like transponder or remote head keys ensure that there's enough space between jaws for these kinds of key.
The right tool will help you start your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for example, is affordable and provides the ability to cut nearly every type of key, with the exception of high-security blanks. This model is mobile and ideal for those who want to establish their own car key cutting business.
It's expensive to invest in a premium machine for cutting keys, but it's worth it because you can cut and create keys using codes, such as transponder and smart keys. It can also be used to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. If you want to program and clone high-security chips, however you'll require an additional device that can connect to the vehicle's onboard system and read the unique identification number (VIN). The right equipment will help you save time and money.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a device that duplicates keys with the same shape as the existing keys. The original key is placed on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool to serve as an example for the new key. The blank key is placed on the other side of the machine. A key guide is employed to ensure that the two keys while they are being cut. This produces a perfectly replicated new key.
Other types of keys need specialized machinery. Keys for standard cars can be cut using a key cutter. Most newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that have to be programmed to start the engine. Transponder key cutters are needed to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key, and then program it to the vehicle.
In addition being able to cut different types of keys, car key cutters also must be able program the key to make it function properly with the ignition system. There are many different models of car key cutters on the market, each with its own unique set of features. The model you choose is based on the kind of key you're cutting as well as the number of copies you require simultaneously.
A car key cutter is a great tool to have in your workshop if you are looking to master the art of making keys. However, you must be aware that the quality of key cutting equipment can vary significantly. It is important to purchase an item from a reputable manufacturer that has a solid warranty. You should also ensure that the machine you purchase is able to be repaired or replaced in the event of need.
There are three primary types of key cutting machine: 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 full focus. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are excellent choices. Automatic Machines are computer driven and will do everything for you. All you need to do is to instruct them on what to do with the software that is included with the machine.
Programming
If the key is equipped with a transponder, it must be programmed to work with that specific vehicle. The process varies among models and makes however, it generally involves inserting a working key into ignition and leaving it there for a short period of time. Then you insert the new one and leave it there for a few seconds. This process allows the car to recognize the new key and allows it to start the vehicle. If you have a more recent model vehicle, you may also need to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complex and expensive device.
Retailers are increasingly adding automobile key duplication machines into their stores because customers want them. They are easy to use and are more precise than manual machines used to cut keys. These machines remove human error and allow for precise and fast key cutting. These machines are perfect for people who have lost or have damaged their keys.
g28carkeys can also locate a car key cutter that is specialized in creating replacement key fobs for the latest models of cars. These devices use the same technology as key duplication machines but can make up to 50 copies at once. Some models even include touchscreens for convenient operation. They can also assist in creating smart keys that have transponder technology and open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can be used to duplicate both metal keys and transponder cards. Some have a remote. A regular key has exactly the same cut on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a normal key and fob that has buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Most modern vehicles are outfitted with a type of anti-theft system that blocks keys that are not from the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. This system relies on an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computer. If the chip isn't properly programmed the car won't start. In a matter of minutes, a professional auto locksmith can create a new key for your car.