4 Dirty Little Details About The Car Key Cut Industry
What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys aren't ones you can bring to a self-serve kiosk at the mall to get cut. They require specialized sidewinder key cutting cutting equipment, and are designed to work in the specific lock cylinder of your vehicle.
Understanding the distinction between car key duplication and cutting your car keys could save you time, money and stress in the future.
Keys
The cutting of a car key is used to create a brand new car key. This is usually performed by a professional because it requires specialized equipment to trace the key's unique shape and make sure it fits in all locks in the right way. In addition professionals often provide a guarantee on the work they do.
In the past keys for cars were simple but the advancement of 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 duplicate or modify the key. They also assist owners in keeping track of who used their vehicle.
Traditional car keys have a rectangular and flat design. They are a lot smaller than sidewinder keys and they feature the same cuts on both sides of the blade. These keys are able to fit in any lock because they share the same cut on both sides. They can be duplicated with standard key machines available in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by luxury car manufacturers. The technology was able to be used in many models to prevent vehicles from being stolen. Laser cut keys are a lot thicker than traditional keys, and they have more carved grooves in their shanks. They are a bit more expensive to manufacture however they are more secure.
To cut a laser-cut keys the locksmith first decode an existing key in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting machine to match the key's cut and then cuts the blade. This type of special key cutting is harder to duplicate and is more difficult. It is imperative that the locksmith utilizes a manual machine that is of high quality, such as the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines also can create keys from existing ones, i.e. they can make new keys by using an existing key that has been cut.
Tools
Cutting car keys is more than just a simple metal shape. It's a skill that guarantees security and efficiency. Properly cut keys guarantee that they fit in the lock and won't harm it or the ignition. Whether you need a standard mechanical key or a transponder, smart or smart key, a professional will ensure that the key is cut correctly.
To make a brand new key, an existing key is placed on the opposite side of the duplicator and aligned with a specialized cutting tool to create an example for the new key. A blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine, 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.
When selecting a key cutter, look for one that offers various jaws and different ways to grip the key. Two-way jaws are ideal for duplicate keys of standard size, while a four-way jaw is better for duplicating laser cut key blades. If you are planning to make use of the machine to duplicate automotive keys such as remote heads or transponder keys, ensure that there enough space between the jaws.
The right tool can help you start your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for example, is affordable and provides the ability to cut nearly any kind of key, excluding high security blanks. It is also suitable for use on mobile key cutting service devices which makes it a great choice for a beginner who would like to begin a car key cutting business.
Investing in a high-end key cutting machine can be costly, but it's worth the investment because it allows you to originate and cut keys using code, including smart and transponder keys. It's also good for programming and cloning RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other key chips. To program or clone high-security chip keys, you'll need a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Finding the appropriate equipment for your key cutting business can save you time and money in the long run.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a device that cuts keys to match the design of existing ones. The original key is put 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 placed on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is utilized to align the two keys while they are being cut. This results in an exact replica of the new key.
While standard car keys can be cut using a key cutter, different types of keys require specialized machines. Many modern vehicles are fitted with smart key systems or proximity key fobs which need to be programmed in order to start the engine. Transponder key cutters are needed to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key, and then program it to the vehicle.
In addition to being able to cut various kinds of keys, the car key cutter must be able to program the key in order to make it function properly with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key-cutters on the market. Each one has distinct characteristics. The model you choose depends on the kind of key you're cutting and the number of keys you will need to duplicate at once.
A car key cutter is an excellent tool to have in your workshop if you are looking to learn how to make keys. You should be aware that key cutting machines come in a variety of quality. It is crucial to buy an item from a reputable manufacturer that has a solid guarantee. You should also make sure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced if needed.
There are three types of key cutting machines: Manual Semi-Automatic, and Automatic. Manual machines require the user to manually move keys across the key tracer wheel and cutter wheel. They are easy to operate, but require your full attention. A good 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 with the software program that is included with the machine.
Programming
If the key has a transponder, it must be programmed to work with the specific vehicle. The procedure varies between makes and models however, it generally involves inserting a working key into the ignition and then leaving it there for a couple of seconds. Then the new key needs to be inserted and left there for another few minutes. This allows the computer in the car to recognize the key and start the vehicle. If you have a newer model car, you may be required to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. They are easy to use and are more precise than manual machines to cut keys. These machines remove human error and allow for precise and fast key cutting. They are great for those who have lost their keys or damaged them.
You can also find a car key cutter that specializes in the creation of replacement key fobs for the latest models of automobiles. These devices utilize the same technology used in duplication machines for car keys, but they can produce up to 50 copies at once. Some models have a touchscreen for easier operation. They can also make smart keys that include an RFID chip that allows doors to open automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate both regular metal keys and transponder keys. Some have a remote. A regular key has the exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a regular key and a fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern cars are equipped with an anti-theft system that prohibits the use of keys that are not the ones supplied by the manufacturer in the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computer. The car won't start if the chip is not programmed correctly. A certified auto locksmith can program a new car key for you in a few minutes.