What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys are not the kind you can simply take to a self-service kiosk at the mall to be cut. They require specialized sidewinder equipment and are specifically designed to fit the specific lock cylinders of your vehicle.

Understanding the distinction between car key duplication and cutting a car key can save you money, time and stress in the future.

Keys

The cutting of the car key is to create a new vehicle key. Professionals are usually the ones who cut keys because it requires specialized machinery to mark a key's unique shape and ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. A professional will often offer a guarantee on the work they do.

In the past keys for cars were easy however, modern technology has made them more complicated. A lot of vehicles today use smart keys that contain encryption and other security features to prevent theft. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to replicate or alter the keys and also assist the owner to keep an eye on who has used their vehicle.

Traditional keys for cars are flat and have a rectangular shape. They are much thinner than sidewinder keys, and they have the same cut on both sides of the blade. These keys can fit into any lock as they have the exact same cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated using standard key machines available in hardware stores.

In the 1990s, laser-cut keys were introduced by high-end car keys cut and programmed manufacturers. The technology was successfully implemented in a variety of models to stop vehicles from being stolen. Laser cut keys have a stronger shank than traditional keys and more grooves carved into the keys. The keys are more costly to manufacture, but they are also more secure.

To cut a laser-cut keys the locksmith first decode an existing key in the store. The locksmith then sets the key cutting machine to match the cuts made in the decoded key, and cuts the blade. This type of key is harder to duplicate and is also more difficult. It is crucial that the locksmith is equipped with an excellent manual machine, such as the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines can also create keys, meaning they can make getting a key cut near me key from one that has been cut.

Tools

Car key cutting is more than cutting a piece of metal It's an art that guarantees security, function and long-term durability. Correctly cut keys ensure that they will fit into the lock and won't damage it or the ignition. A professional will ensure that the key is cut correctly, whether it's a key made of metal or transponder or smart key.

To make a duplicate key cut places near me, a key is placed on the side of the machine and aligned by a special cutting tool. This is used as an example. A blank key is placed on the other side of the machine and aligned to a key guide. This will keep both keys in line during duplication. Both keys are cut simultaneously, resulting in duplicates that are identical to the original.

Find key cutters with multiple jaws that can hold the key. A two-way cutter is the best for duplicates of traditional double sided key cutting near me blades, while an option with four ways is best for laser cut keys. If you are planning to use the machine to duplicate keys for automotive use, like transponder keys or remote heads, ensure that there enough space between the jaws.

The right tool will aid you in starting your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is a reasonable price and can cut almost every kind of key, with the exception of high-security blanks. This model is also suited for use on the move, making it an excellent choice for a beginner who would like to start a car key cutting business.

It's expensive to invest in a high-end machine for cutting keys but the investment is worth it since you can cut and originate keys using codes, including transponder as well as smart keys. It can also be used to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. To clone or program high-security chip keys, you will require a device that is able to communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Choosing the appropriate equipment for your key cutting business will save time and money in the long run.

Cutting

The key duplicator is a tool that duplicates keys with the same shape as existing keys. The key from the original is placed on one side of the machine and then aligned with the cutting tool. This serves as a template to create the new key. The blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine. Key guides are used to keep the two keys in line while they are cut and shaped, creating a flawlessly duplicated key.

While standard car keys can be cut with the key cutter, other types of keys require specialized machines. Most newer cars are equipped with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that must be programmed to start the vehicle. Transponder key cutters are needed to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the keys and program it for 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 a myriad of models of car key cutters available on the market. Each has distinct features. The model you pick depends on the type of key you're cutting as well as the number of keys you will need to duplicate at once.

If you're interested in learning to make your own keys, a car key maker is a useful tool in your workshop. It is important to know, however, that key cutting equipment comes in a variety of quality. It is essential to purchase an item that is manufactured by a reputable manufacturer and has a good warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine is easily replaced or repaired if needed.

There are three main types of key cutting machines: Manual, semi-automatic and automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move keys between the cutter wheel and tracer, they are easy to use however they require your full concentration. A good choice would be the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated machines are computer-driven and will complete all the work for you. All you have to do is give them the information you need to accomplish by using the software included with the machine.

Programming

If a key has been fitted with an electronic transponder, it will need to be programmed for the particular car. The process varies between models and makes and models, but generally involves inserting the working key into ignition and leaving it for a couple of minutes. Then insert the new key and leave it for a couple of seconds. This allows the computer of the car to recognize this key and start the vehicle. If you have a more recent model vehicle, you may also have to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more complex and expensive device.

Retailers are increasingly adding cars key duplication machines to their stores because customers want them. These machines are simple to operate and are more precise than manual key cutting machines. They also eliminate human mistakes, allowing you to cut a key accurately and quickly. These machines are perfect for people who have lost their keys or damaged them.

You can also find car key cutters who specialize in the creation of replacement key fobs to fit the most recent models of cars. These devices employ the same technology as car key duplication machines but can make up 50 copies at once. Some models even have touchscreen displays for more efficient operation. They can also make smart keys that include an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.

A car key cutter can duplicate both regular metal keys and transponder keys. Some keys also include a remote head. A regular key has exactly the same cut on both sides. A remote head is a combination of a regular key and a fob that includes buttons to lock and unlock the car.

Modern vehicles are equipped with a security system that prevents the use of keys other than the ones provided by the manufacturer on the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the car's computers. The car won't start when the chip isn't properly programmed. A professional auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you in a few minutes.