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 key-cutting equipment and are specifically designed to fit into the lock cylinder that is specific to your vehicle.

Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and car key cutting could save you money, time and stress in the near future.

Keys

The process of cutting the car key is to create a new vehicle key. Professionals are usually the ones who do this since it requires special equipment to mark a key's distinctive shape and ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. A professional will usually provide a warranty on the work they do.

In the past keys for cars were simple. Modern technology has made them more complicated. Smart keys are utilized in a variety of vehicles to deter theft. They contain encryption and other security measures. These features are intended to make it difficult for thieves to duplicate or tamper the key. They also help owners keep track of who used their vehicle.

The traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular design. They are thinner than the sidewinder keys and have the same cut on both sides. These keys can fit into any lock as they have the exact same cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated using traditional key machines that can be that are available in hardware stores.

Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, and were primarily used by luxury car brands. The technology was successfully incorporated in various models to deter vehicles from being stolen. Laser cut keys have a more robust shank than traditional keys and more grooves that are carved into the keys. They are a bit more expensive to produce but they're also more secure.

To cut the key with a laser, a locksmith has to first decode the key in the shop. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting device to match the key's cut and then cuts the blade. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate, and takes more time than a regular key. It is essential that the locksmith has a manual machine that is of high quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines can also make keys from existing keys, i.e. they can create new keys from 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 guarantees security, function, and longevity. Correctly cut keys ensure that they will fit into the lock and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. Whether you need a traditional mechanical key or a transponder or smart key cut service, a professional will ensure that the key is cut correctly.

To make duplicate keys the key is placed on the side of the machine and aligned by a special cutting tool. This serves as a template. A blank key is placed on the other side of the machine, and aligned to the key guide. This keeps both keys aligned during the duplication. Both keys are cut at the same time and produce duplicates that are identical to the original.

Look for key cutters with multiple jaws that can hold the key. Two-way jaws are ideal to duplicate standard keys while four-way jaws are better to duplicate laser cut key blades. Also, if you'll be making keys for cars, such as a transponder or remote head keys, make sure that there's enough space between the jaws to accommodate these types of keys.

The right tool can assist you in establishing your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut nearly any type of key, except for high-security blanks. The model is portable and ideal for those looking to start their own key cutting business.

A high-end key cutting machine is expensive, but it's worth the investment because it allows you to design and cut keys using code that includes transponder and smart keys. It's also useful for programming and cloning RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chip keys. To program or clone high-security chip keys, you will require a device that is able to 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 cash in the end.

Cutting

The key duplicator is a tool that duplicates keys with the same form as the original ones. The original key is placed on one side of the machine and then aligned with the cutting tool. This is used as a template to design the new key. The blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is employed to align the two keys while they are being cut. This produces a perfectly replicated new key.

While car keys that are standard can be cut with a key cutter, other kinds of keys require special equipment. The majority of newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that need to be programmed in order to start the engine. 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.

A car key cutter should be able to not only cut different kinds of keys, but also program them to work with the ignition system. There are many models of car key-cutters on the market. Each has distinct features. The model you pick will depend on the type of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you'll need simultaneously.

If you're interested in learning to make your own keys, a car key maker can be a valuable tool for your workshop. However, you must be aware that the quality of key cutting equipment can vary significantly. It is crucial to purchase the machine by a reputable industry manufacturer and has a good warranty. You should also ensure that the machine you purchase can be easily repaired or replaced if needed.

There are three primary types of key cutting machines Semi-automatic, manual and automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move keys along the key tracer wheel as well as the cutter wheel. They are easy to operate, but require your complete attention. A good option is the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automatic Machines are computer-driven and do all the work for you. All you have to do is tell them what you want to do using the software included with the machine.

Programming

If the key has a transponder it must be programmed to work with the specific vehicle. The process differs between different makes and models, but it usually involves inserting an operational key into the ignition and leaving it there for a short period of time. Then the new key needs to be put in and left for another few minutes. This allows the car's computer to recognize the key and start the car key cutting near me prices. If you have a newer model vehicle, you may also need to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complex and expensive device.

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

There are also car key cutters who specialize in the production of key fobs that can be used as replacements to be compatible with the most recent models of cars. These devices utilize the same technology as the car key duplication machines but can create up to 50 copies at once. Some models feature touchscreens for better operation. They can also help you create smart keys that have a transponder and can open doors in a controlled manner.

A car key cutter can duplicate both regular keys made of metal and transponder key cutting near me keys. Some have a remote. A normal key is a key that has the same exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of an ordinary key and a fob that includes buttons to lock and unlock the car.

Modern vehicles are equipped with a security system that blocks the use of keys other than the ones provided by the manufacturer inside the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip to communicate with the computer in the car. If the chip isn't properly programmed, the car will not start. A professional auto key cutting machine locksmith can program a brand new car key for you in a few minutes.