Car Key Cut: The Good The Bad And The Ugly
What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys can't be cut at a self-service kiosk located in the mall. They require specialized sidewinder key cutting equipment and are specifically designed to work in the lock cylinder specific to your vehicle.
Understanding the difference between duplication of car keys and cutting keys will save you money, time and stress.
Keys
The process of cutting the car key is to create a new vehicle key. Professionals are usually the ones who perform this since it requires special equipment to create a unique shape and ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. A professional will usually offer a guarantee for the work they perform.
In the past, car keys were simple however, modern technology has made them more complex. Smart keys are used in a lot of vehicles to protect against theft. They contain encryption and other security measures. These features are intended to make it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or tamper the key. They can also help owners keep track of who used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars are rectangular and flat shape. They are much thinner than sidewinder keys, and they have 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. They can be duplicated with standard key machines that are available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the early 1990s, mostly by luxury car manufacturers. The technology was successfully incorporated in many models to prevent theft of cars. Laser cut keys are more durable than traditional keys, and they have more carved grooves in their shanks. The keys are more expensive to manufacture, but they 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 adjusts the key-cutting machine to match the key's cuts and then cuts the blade. This type of key is much more difficult to duplicate, and takes longer time to cut than a standard key. It is important that the locksmith uses an excellent manual machine, such as the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines can also originate keys, which means they can create a new key from a key that was cut.
Tools
car key blade cutting key cutting is more than shaping a piece of metal it's an art form that guarantees security, efficiency and long-term durability. When keys are cut correctly, they'll fit in the lock and won't cause damage to the lock or the ignition. A professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly, no matter if it's a mechanical key or smart or transponder.
To make a brand new key, an original one is placed on the duplicator's side and aligned with a specialized cutting tool to be used as an outline for the new key. A blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine and aligned to the key guide. This will keep both keys in alignment during duplication. Both keys are cut simultaneously and produce duplicates that are identical to the original.
Find key cutters that have multiple jaws that can 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. If you are planning to use the machine to duplicate automotive keys like transponder keys or remote heads make sure there is enough space between the jaws.
The best tool will help you get keys cut 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, with the exception of high-security blanks. The model is portable and is ideal for those who want to start their own key cutting business.
A high-end key cutting machine is expensive, but it's worth the cost because it will allow you to design and cut most keys by code, including smart and transponder keys. It's also good for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other key chips. If you want to program and clone high-security chips, however you'll require an additional device that is able to communicate with the onboard system of your vehicle and identify the unique identification number (VIN). Finding the best equipment for your key cutting business will save time and money in the long term.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a device that cuts keys to match the shape of existing ones. The original key is positioned on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool to serve as a template for the new key. The blank key will then be placed on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is employed to align the two keys as they are being cut. This produces a perfectly replicated new key.
Other types of keys need special equipment. Standard car keys can be cut using a key cutter. Many modern vehicles are fitted with smart key systems or proximity key fobs which need to be programmed to start the engine. To cut these keys, you will require transponder key cutters that can trace the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
A car key cutter needs to be able to not only cut different types of keys, but also program them to work with the ignition system. There are many different models of car key cutters available on the market each with its own distinct set of features. The model you choose is based on the kind of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you need at once.
If you're interested in learning 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 machines can vary significantly. It is important to purchase an item from a reputable manufacturer that offers a long-term warranty. You should also ensure that the machine you buy can be easily repaired or replaced if necessary.
There are three main types of key cutting machines that are available: Manual Semi-Automatic, and Automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move the keys between the key tracer and cutter wheel, they are easy to use however they require your complete attention. 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 to instruct them on what to do with the software program that is included 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 working key into ignition and leaving it for a few moments. Then, insert the new key and leave it in place for a couple of seconds. This allows the mobile car key cutting's computer to recognize the key and start the car. You may also need to program your keyless entry remote if have a newer model of vehicle. This requires a complicated and expensive device.
Retailers are adding more automobile key duplication machines into their stores because customers want them. These machines are easier to use and more precise than manual machines to cut keys. They remove human error and permit accurate and quick key cutting. These machines are perfect for those who have lost or have damaged keys.
You can also locate a car key cutter that is specialized in the creation of replacement key fobs for the latest models of cars. These devices utilize the same technology as car key duplication machines, but they can create up 50 copies at a time. Some models come with touchscreen displays for more comfortable operation. They can also assist in creating smart keys that have an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate both regular keys made of metal and transponder keys. Some keys come with remotes. A normal key has the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is an amalgamation of a regular key and fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Most modern vehicles are outfitted with a type of anti-theft device that prohibits keys that are not from the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip to communicate with the computer in the car. If the chip is not properly programmed the car won't start. A professional auto locksmith can program a new car key for you in just a few minutes.
