What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys are not ones you can take to a self-service kiosk in the mall to be cut. They require specialized sidewinder key-cutting equipment and are designed to work with the specific lock cylinder of your vehicle.

Understanding the difference between duplication of car keys and cutting car keys will save you money, time and stress.

Keys

The process of cutting a car key is used to create a new key for the vehicle. Professionals are typically the ones who do this because it requires special equipment to trace a key's unique shape and ensure it fits into the locks correctly. A professional will often offer a guarantee on the work they do.

In the past, car keys were simple but the advancement of technology has made them more complicated. Smart keys are found in a lot of vehicles to protect against theft. They contain encryption and other security measures. These features are intended to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or alter the key. They also assist owners in keeping the track of who has used their vehicle.

Traditional car keys have a rectangular and flat form. They are smaller than sidewinder keys and they have the same cuts on both sides of the blade. Since they share the identical cut on both sides, these types of keys are able to fit into locks in any way. These keys can be duplicated with regular key machines found in hardware stores.

Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, mainly by luxury car brands. The goal was to prevent the theft of vehicles, and the technology has been successfully used in many models. Laser cut keys have a more robust shank than traditional keys and more grooves that are carved into the keys. They are a little more expensive to make but they're also more secure.

To cut a laser cut key, a locksmith must first decode the existing key in the shop. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting device to match the key's cuts and cuts the blade. This kind of key is harder to duplicate and is more difficult. It is crucial that the locksmith uses a manual machine of high quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines can also create keys, which means they can make a key from a key that has been cut.

You can also learn more about

Cutting car keys is more than simply a simple shape of metal. It's a skill that ensures security and functionality. Correctly cut keys ensure that they will fit into the lock, and will not cause damage to it or the ignition. A professional will ensure the key is cut correctly, whether it's a mechanical or smart or transponder.

To create a duplicate key the key is placed on the machine's side and aligned with a special cutting tool. This is used as a template. Then, a blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine. There, it is aligned with key guides to keep both keys in alignment during the duplicate process. Both keys are cut at the same time and produce duplicates that are identical to the original.

When choosing the key cutter, look for one that offers various jaws and different ways to hold the key. A two-way key cutter is best for duplicating standard key blades, while the 4-way model is ideal for keys that are laser cut. Also, if you'll be using the machine to make automotive keys like transponder keys or remote heads ensure that there's enough space between the jaws to accommodate these types of key.

The best tool will aid you in starting the business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for example, is affordable and can cut nearly any kind of key except for high-security blanks. This model is also suited for use on the move and is a good option for someone who is just starting out and would like to start a key cutting business.

A high-end key cutting machine can be expensive, but it's worth it because it allows you to originate and cut most keys by code, including smart and transponder keys. It's also great for programming and cloning RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other key chips. If you're looking to clone and program high-security chips you'll require a second device that can connect to the vehicle's onboard system and read the unique identification number (VIN). Choosing the best equipment for your key cutting business can save you time and money in the long term.

Cutting

The key duplicator is a device that duplicates keys with the same shape as the existing ones. The key that was originally used is placed on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool. This serves as a template to design the new key. The blank key will then be placed on the opposite side of machine. Key guides are used to keep the two keys in line during the cutting process, resulting in a perfectly duplicated new key.

Other kinds of keys require special equipment. Keys for cars that are standard 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 in order to start the engine. To cut these types of keys, you require transponder key cutters capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.

A car key cutter needs to be able not only to cut various types of keys but also to program them to work with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of spare car key cutting near me key-cutters available on the market. Each one has distinct characteristics. The model you pick depends on what kind of key you're cutting and how many copies you'll need simultaneously.

A car key cutter is a great tool to have in your workshop if you want to learn how to make keys. You must be aware, however, that key cutting machines come in a variety of quality. It is essential to purchase an item from a reputable manufacturer that has a solid guarantee. It is also important to ensure that the machine you purchase can be easily repaired or replaced if necessary.

There are three primary types of key cutting machines: Manual, semi-automatic and automatic. Manual Machines require you to manually move the keys along the key tracer and cutter wheel They are simple to use, but they require your complete focus. 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 have to do is to instruct them on what to do using the software program that comes with the machine.

Programming

If the key has an electronic transponder, it needs to be programmed to work with the specific car. The process varies between brands and models however, it usually involves inserting the working key into ignition and leaving it for a few moments. Then, the new key needs to be put in and left for a few minutes. This will allow the car to recognize the new key and allow it to start the vehicle. If you have a more recent model car, you might also have to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complex and expensive device.

Retailers are adding more car key duplication machines to their stores due to the fact that customers are looking for them. They are easy to use and more precise than manual machines to cut keys. They remove human error and provide precise and fast key cutting. These machines are ideal for people who have lost their keys or have damaged them.

There is also a car key cutter that specializes in making replacement keys for the latest models of cars. These devices employ the same technology as car key duplication machines but can create up to 50 copies at a time. Some models even include touchscreens for comfortable operation. They can also help you create smart keys, which are equipped with a an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.

A car key cutter is able to duplicate both metal keys and transponder cards. Some have a remote. A standard key is a key that has the same exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a normal key and a fob which includes buttons to lock and unlock the car.

Most modern vehicles are outfitted with an anti-theft device that prohibits keys other than those from the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. This system relies on an electronic chip that communicates with the computer in the car. The car will not start if the chip is not programmed correctly. In just a few minutes, a certified auto locksmith can program a new key for your vehicle.