What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys are not the type you can bring to a self-service kiosk in the mall to be cut. They require specialized sidewinder equipment, and are designed to fit the specific locks cylinders that you have in your car.
Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting your car keys can save you money, time and stress in the near future.
Keys
The cutting process of a car key is used to create a brand new car key. Professionals are usually the ones who do this since it requires specially designed equipment to trace a key's unique shape and ensure it is compatible with the locks. Professionals usually provide a warranty on the work they do.
In the past, car keys were simple however, modern technology has made them more complicated. A lot of vehicles today use smart keys that contain encryption as well as other security features to guard against theft. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to replicate or tamper with the key and also assist the owner to keep an eye on who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars are rectangular and flat 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 cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated with the standard key machines that are that are available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were first introduced in the early 1990s, mostly by luxury car manufacturers. The technology was successfully incorporated in a variety of models to stop cars being stolen. Laser cut had me going are thicker than conventional keys, and have more carved grooves in their shanks. The keys are more costly to produce, but are also more secure.
To cut a key with a laser the locksmith must first decode a key that is already in the store. The locksmith then sets the key cutting machine to match the cut marks in the key that was decoded and then cuts the blade. This kind of key is much more difficult to duplicate, and takes more time than a regular key. It is imperative that the locksmith utilizes a manual machine of high quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines can also make keys from existing ones, i.e. they can create new keys using an existing key that has been cut.
Tools
Car key cutting is more than creating a metal piece It's an art that guarantees security, function, and longevity. Correctly cut keys ensure that they'll fit in the lock, and will not cause damage to the lock or the ignition. A professional will ensure that the key is cut correctly, whether it's a mechanical key or smart or transponder.
To create a duplicate key the key is placed on the side of the machine and aligned by a special cutting tool. This is used as an example. Then the blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine. There, it is aligned using a key guide to ensure both keys are in alignment during the duplication process. The two keys are cut simultaneously to produce duplicates that match the original key.
When selecting a key cutter, look for one that offers several jaws that have different ways to hold the key. A two-way cutter is the best to duplicate standard key blades, whereas the 4-way model is ideal for cutting keys using lasers. If you are planning to make use of the machine to duplicate keys for automotive use, such as transponder keys or remote heads make sure there is enough space between the jaws.
The right tool will help you start your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is affordable and can cut nearly any kind of key, with the exception of high-security blanks. This model is also suitable for use on mobile devices, making it an excellent option for a novice who is looking to start a key cutting business.
It's costly to purchase a top-of-the-line machine for cutting keys, but it's worth it because you can cut and originate the majority of keys with codes, including transponder and smart keys. It can also be used to clone and program RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. To program or clone high-security chip keys, you will need a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Choosing the best equipment for your key cutting business will save you time and money in the long term.
Cutting
The key duplicator tool is a machine which cuts keys to match the shape of the existing ones. The original key is placed on one side of machine and aligned to the cutting tool. This serves as a template for the new key. The blank key is then positioned on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is utilized to align the two keys while they are being cut. This produces a perfectly replicated new key.
While car keys that are standard can be cut with a key cutter, different kinds of keys require special machines. The majority of 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 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 various types of keys, car key cutters also must be able to program the key to allow it to function 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 select will depend on the type of key you're cutting as well as the number of keys you will need to copy at one time.
A car key cutter is an excellent tool to have in your workshop if you want to learn how to make keys. You must be aware that key cutting equipment comes in a wide range of quality. It is crucial to purchase the machine by a reputable industrial manufacturer and comes with a solid warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced in the event of need.
There are 3 main kinds of key cutting machines: Manual Semi-Automatic, Automatic and Manual. Manual machines require the user to manually move keys along the key tracer wheel as well as the cutter wheel. They are easy to operate, but require your full concentration. The best option is the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated machines are computer controlled and do everything for you. All you need to do is tell them what to do using the software program that comes with the machine.
Programming
If a key is outfitted with a transponder, it needs to be programmed to the specific car. The procedure varies for different brands and models however, it usually involves inserting the working key into the ignition and then leaving it for a short period of time. Then insert the new key and leave it in place for a few minutes. This allows the computer of the car to recognize this key and start the car. If you have a more recent model vehicle, you may be required to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more intricate and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are easy to use and more accurate than manual key cutting machines. They remove human error and permit rapid and precise key cutting. These machines are perfect for people who have lost or have damaged their keys.
You can also locate a car key cutter that is specialized in creating replacement key fobs for the most recent models of automobiles. These devices employ the same technology as duplication machines for car keys, but can produce up to 50 copies simultaneously. Some models even have a touchscreen display for more efficient operation. They can also assist in creating smart keys, which are equipped with a transponder technology and open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can be used to duplicate both metal keys and transponder cards. Some have remotes. A normal key has the same cuts 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 an anti-theft system that prohibits the use of keys other than the ones provided by the manufacturer in the ignition. This system relies on an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computer. The car will not start in the event that the chip is not properly programmed. In a matter of minutes, a professional auto locksmith can programme a new key to your vehicle.