What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys are not the kind you can simply take to a self-service kiosk in the mall to get keys cut cut. They require specialized sidewinder key-cutting equipment and are specifically designed to work with the lock cylinder that is specific to your vehicle.

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

Keys

The cutting process of the car key is to create a brand new car key. This is usually performed by a professional because it requires specialized equipment to trace the unique profile of the key and ensure that it fits into all of the locks correctly. Professionals usually provide a warranty on the work they perform.

In the past keys for cars were easy to find. Modern technology has made them more complicated. A lot of vehicles today use smart keys that come with encryption as well as other security features to prevent theft. These features are intended to make it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or alter the key. They also aid owners in keeping the track of who has used their vehicle.

Traditional keys for cars are rectangular and flat shape. They are smaller than sidewinder key cutting keys and 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 a lock either way. These keys can be duplicated using traditional key machines that can be found in hardware stores.

Laser cut keys were first introduced in the early 1990s, mostly by luxury car manufacturers. The technology was successfully implemented in a variety of models to stop cars being stolen. Laser cut keys have a more robust 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 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 decoded, and cuts the blade. This kind of key is harder to duplicate and is also more difficult. It is important that the locksmith is equipped with a high-quality manual machine, such as the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines can also originate keys, meaning they can create a new key from a key that was cut.

Tools

Car key cutting is more than shaping a piece of metal; it's an art that ensures security, functionality, and longevity. Correctly cut keys ensure that they fit into the lock and won't damage it or the ignition. If you require a regular mechanical key or a transponder, smart or smart key, a professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly.

To make duplicate keys the key is positioned on the side of the machine and aligned by a special cutting tool. This serves as an outline. A blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine and aligned to a key guide. This keeps both keys in alignment during duplication. Both keys are then cut at the same time to create duplicates that match the original key.

Look for key cutters with multiple jaws that can hold the key. A two-way jaw is perfect to duplicate standard keys while four-way jaws are better for duplicates of key blades cut by laser. Additionally, if you're making keys for cars, such as a remote head or transponder key make sure there's enough space between jaws for these styles of key.

The right tool will assist you in establishing your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut almost every kind of key, except for high-security blanks. It is portable and ideal for those looking to start their own car key cutting business.

It can be expensive to invest in a premium machine to cut keys, however, the investment is worthwhile because you can cut and originate keys using codes, such as transponder and smart keys. It's also useful for programming and cloning RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other key chips. If you want to program and clone high-security chips, you'll need an additional device that can connect to the vehicle's onboard system and identify the unique identification number (VIN). The right equipment can save you time and money.

Cutting

The key duplicator is a device that cuts keys to fit the shape of existing ones. The original key is placed on one side of the machine and lined up with the cutting tool, which serves as a template for the new key. The blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine. Key guides are used to keep the two keys in line during the cutting car key process, resulting in a perfectly duplicated key.

Other kinds of keys require special equipment. Standard car keys can be made with a key cutter. Many modern vehicles are fitted with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that have to be programmed to start the engine. To cut these types of keys, you need transponder key cutters that is capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.

A car key cutter must be able to cut different kinds of keys but also to program them to work with the ignition system. There are many models of car key cutters available on the market. Each comes with its own unique features. The model you choose depends on the type of key you're cutting as well as the number of getting keys cut you have to duplicate at once.

If you're interested in learning to make your own keys, a car key maker could be a great tool in your workshop. However, you should be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can differ significantly. It is crucial to purchase a machine that is made by a reputable industrial manufacturer with a long warranty. You should also make sure that the machine is easily replaced or repaired in the event of need.

There are three types of key cutting machine: Manual, semi-automatic and automated. Manual machines require you to manually move keys around the key tracer wheel as well as the cutter wheel. They are easy to operate but require your complete attention. A good choice would be 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 specify what you want them to do using the software program that is included with the machine.

Programming

If the key is equipped with an electronic transponder, it needs to be programmed to work with that particular vehicle. The process varies between brands and models and models, but generally involves inserting the key that is currently in use into ignition and leaving it for a few moments. Then the new key needs to be inserted and left for a few minutes. This allows the car to recognize the new key and allows it to start the vehicle. You may also need to program your keyless entry remote in case you are using a more recent model of car. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.

Retailers are progressively adding automobile key duplication machines into their stores because customers demand them. These machines are easy to use and more precise than manual key cutting machines. They remove human error and allow for precise and fast key cutting. These machines are ideal for people who are lost or have damaged keys.

There are also car key cutters who specialize in the creation of replacement key fobs to be compatible with the latest models of automobiles. These devices utilize the same technology as car key duplication machines, but they can produce up to 50 copies at a time. Some models come with touchscreen displays for more comfortable operation. They can also make smart keys that include an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.

A car key cutter can duplicate regular keys made of metal as well as transponder keys. Some keys have remotes. A normal key has the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is a combination of a regular key and a fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.

Modern vehicles are equipped with an anti-theft system which prevents the use of keys other than the ones provided by the manufacturer inside the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip that communicates with the computer in the car. The car will not start in the event that the chip is not programmed properly. A professional auto locksmith can program a new car key for you within a few minutes.