What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys aren't cut at a self-service kiosk in a mall. They require specialized sidewinder equipment, and are specifically designed to be compatible with the lock cylinders of your car.

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

Keys

Car key cutting is the process of making a new key for a vehicle. It is usually done by a professional because it requires specialized machinery to trace the unique profile of the key and make sure it fits in the locks in the correct way. A professional will usually offer a guarantee for the work they do.

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 and other security features to prevent theft. These features are designed to make it difficult for thieves to duplicate or alter the keys and can assist the owner to keep an eye on who has used their vehicle.

Traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular design. They are a lot thinner than sidewinder keys and they feature the same cuts on both sides of the blade. These keys are able to fit into any lock since they have the exact same cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated with standard key machines 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 theft of cars. Laser cut keys have a more robust shank than traditional keys, and more grooves that are carved into the keys. The keys are more expensive to manufacture, but they are also more secure.

To cut a laser-cut key the locksmith must first decode a key that is already in the store. He or she then sets the key cutting machine to match the cuts in the key decoded, and cuts the blade. This type of key is much more complicated to copy, and it takes a longer time than a regular key. 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 can also create keys, which means they can make a key from one 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 will fit into the lock and won't harm it or the ignition. Whether you need a traditional mechanical key or a smart or transponder key professional will make sure that it's cut correctly.

To make duplicate keys the key is positioned on the machine's side and aligned with a special cutting tool. This serves as an example. Then the blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. There, it is aligned using a key guide to ensure that both keys remain in line during the duplication process. Both keys are then cut simultaneously to produce duplicates that match the original key.

Find a key cutter that has multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. A two-way jaw is perfect for duplicate keys of standard size, while four-way jaws are better for duplicates of key blades cut by laser. Also, if you'll be making keys for cars, such as a transponder keys or remote heads ensure that there's enough space between the jaws to accommodate these types of keys.

The appropriate tool can aid you in starting the field. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that cuts almost every kind of key, aside from high-security blanks. This model is mobile and is ideal for those looking to establish their own car key cutting price key cutting business.

It can be expensive to invest in a high-end machine for cutting keys, however, the investment is worth it since it can cut and make the majority of keys with codes, including transponder and smart keys. It's also useful for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chip keys. To clone or program high-security chip keys, you will need a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. The right equipment will save you time and money.

Cutting

The key duplicator is a device that duplicates keys with the same shape as the existing keys. The key from the original is placed on one side of the machine and aligned to the cutting tool. This serves as a template for the new key. The blank key will then be positioned on opposite side of the machine. A key guide is employed to ensure that the two keys as they are being cut. This produces an exact replica of the new key.

Different types of keys require special machinery. Standard car keys can be cut using the use of a key cutter. The majority of newer cars come with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that have to be programmed to begin the vehicle. To cut these types of keys, you will require a transponder key cutter that is capable of tracing the contours of the nearest key cutting and programming it to the vehicle.

A car key cutter should be able not only to 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 with its own unique set of features. The model you pick depends on the kind of key you're cutting as well as the number of keys you have to copy at one time.

If you're interested in learning how to make your own keys, a car key maker could be a great tool in your workshop. However, you must be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can vary significantly. It is important to buy a machine that is made by a reputable industrial manufacturer and has a good warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine you buy can be easily repaired or replaced if necessary.

There are three types of key cutting services cutting machines: Manual Semi-Automatic, Automatic and Manual. Manual machines require you to manually move keys along the key tracer wheel and cutter wheel. They are simple to operate, but require your full attention. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are excellent choices. Automated machines are computer controlled and do everything for you, all you need to do is specify what you want them to do with the software program that comes with the machine.

Programming

If the key is equipped with a transponder, it must be programmed to work with the specific vehicle. The procedure varies for different models and makes and models, but generally involves inserting the key that is currently in use into the ignition and then leaving it for a couple of minutes. Then you insert the new one and leave it for a few minutes. This allows the computer in the car to recognize the key and start the car. It is also possible to program your keyless entry remote if have a newer model of car. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.

Customers are demanding more car key duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are easy to use and more accurate than manual key cutting machines. They also eliminate human mistakes, allowing you to cut a key precisely and quickly. These machines are perfect for people who are lost or have damaged keys.

You can also find car keys cut and programmed key cutters who specialize in the creation of key fobs for replacement that fit the latest models of vehicles. These devices use the exact same technology that duplication machines use for car keys, but they can create up to 50 copies at once. Some models even have touchscreens for convenient operation. They can also help you design smart keys cut, which are equipped with a 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 come with a remote. A regular key has the same exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a normal key and fob which includes buttons to lock and unlock the car.

Modern vehicles are equipped with an anti-theft system which blocks the use of keys other than those provided by the manufacturer on the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip for communication with the computer in the car. If the chip isn't properly programmed, the car will not start. In just a few minutes, a qualified auto locksmith can program a new key for your car.