Car Key Cut: The Good The Bad And The Ugly
What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys are not the kind you can simply bring to a self-serve kiosk in the mall to be cut. They require specialized sidewinder equipment and are specifically designed to match the specific lock cylinders of your car.
Understanding the distinction between car key duplication and car key cutting will save you time, money and stress in the future.
Keys
The cutting of a car key is to create a new key for the vehicle. Professionals are usually the ones who perform this, as it takes specially designed equipment to mark a key's unique shape and ensure that it is a good fit for the locks. A professional will often offer a guarantee on the work they perform.
In the past keys for cars were easy to find. Modern technology has made them more complicated. Many cars now have smart keys that have encryption as well as other security features to guard against theft. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or alter the keys, and they can also assist the owner to keep an eye on who has used their vehicle.
Traditional car keys have a rectangular and flat shape. They are thinner than the sidewinder key and have the same cut on both sides. Because they have the same cut on both sides, these kinds of keys can fit in a lock either way. They can be duplicated using traditional key machines that can be found 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 have a stronger shank than traditional keys and more grooves that are carved into the keys. They are more expensive to manufacture, but they are also more secure.
To cut a key with a laser the locksmith must first decode an existing key in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting device to match the key's cuts and cuts the blade. This kind of key is much more difficult to duplicate and takes longer time than a regular key. It is essential that the locksmith utilizes 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 from existing keys, i.e. they can create new keys using an existing key that has been cut.
Tools
Car key cutting is more than just cutting a piece of metal it's an art form that ensures security, functionality and durability. When keys are cut correctly, they will fit into the lock, and won't cause harm to it or the ignition. No matter if you need a traditional mechanical key or a transponder, smart or smart key, a professional will make sure that it's cut correctly.
To make a new key, an existing one is positioned on the duplicator's side and aligned with an instrument designed for Cutting Key to serve as a template for the new key. Then, a blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine. There, it is aligned using a key guide to keep both keys in alignment during the duplicate process. The two keys are cut at the same time to create duplicates that are identical to the original key.
When choosing a key cutter, look for one that offers multiple jaws with different options to hold the key cutting places. A two-way key cutter is best for duplicating standard key blades, whereas an option with four ways is best for cutting keys using lasers. Additionally, if you're using the machine to make keys for automobiles, such as transponder or remote head keys, make sure that there's enough space between the jaws for these kinds of keys.
The right tool will aid you in starting your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that cuts almost every type of key except for high-security blanks. This model is mobile and ideal for those looking to start their own key cutting business.
It's expensive to invest in a high-end machine for cutting keys, but it's 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 program or clone high-security chip keys, you'll require a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Choosing the right equipment for your key cutting business can save you time and money in the long run.
Cutting
The key duplicator is an instrument that duplicates keys with the same shape as the existing ones. The key from the original is placed on one side of machine and then aligned with the cutting tool. This is used as a template to design the new key. The blank key will be positioned on opposite side of the machine. A key guide is used to keep the two keys in alignment while they are cut and shaped, creating a flawlessly duplicated key.
While standard car keys can be cut with a key cutter, other kinds of keys require special equipment. The majority of newer cars come with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that need to be programmed to allow the start of the vehicle. To cut these kinds of keys, you need transponder key cutters capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
In addition being able to cut different types of keys, the car key cutter must be able program the key in order to ensure it works with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car automotive key cutting near me cutters available on the market, each with its own distinct set of features. The model you choose depends on the type of key you're cutting and the number of keys you need to copy at one time.
If you're looking to learn how to make your own keys, a car key maker is a useful tool in your workshop. You should be aware, however, that key cutting equipment comes in a variety of high-quality. It is important to purchase a machine from a reputable manufacturer that offers a long-term warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine is easily replaced or repaired should it be required.
There are three main kinds of key cutting machines: Manual Semi-Automatic, Automatic and Manual. Manual machines require users to manually move keys between the key tracer and cutter wheel, they are easy to use however they require your full concentration. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are both good options. Automated machines are computer-driven and do all the work for you. All you have to do is tell them what you want to accomplish by using the software included with the machine.
Programming
If a key is equipped with transponder, it has to be programmed for the particular car. The procedure varies for different brands and models and models, but generally involves inserting the working key into ignition and leaving it for a few moments. Then the new key has to be put in and left for a few minutes. This will allow the car to recognize the new key and allows it to start the car. If you have a newer model vehicle, you may also need to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complex and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. They are easy to use and more accurate than manual machines for cutting keys. They also eliminate human error, making it possible to cut a key precisely and quickly. These machines are perfect for those who have lost or have damaged keys.
There are also car key cutters that specialize in the creation of key fobs that can be used as replacements to be compatible with the latest models of vehicles. These devices employ the same technology used in duplication machines for car keys, but can produce up to 50 copies at once. Some models come with a touchscreen for easier operation. They can also help you create smart keys, which have transponder technology and open doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate both regular keys made of metal and transponder keys. Some have a remote. A normal key has the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of regular keys and a fob which has buttons for locking and unlocking the replacement car key cutting.
Modern cars come with an anti-theft system which blocks the use of keys that are not the ones supplied by the manufacturer inside the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the car's computer. The car won't start if the chip is not properly programmed. A professional auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you in just a few minutes.