What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys can't be cut at a self-service kiosk in the mall. They require specialized sidewinder cutting equipment and are designed to work with the specific lock cylinder 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 the key for a vehicle. Professionals are usually the ones who do this because it requires special equipment to trace a key's unique shape and ensure it fits into the locks correctly. A professional will usually offer a guarantee for the work they do.

In the past, car keys were simple however, modern technology has made them more complicated. A lot of vehicles today use smart keys that contain encryption as well as other security features to prevent theft. These features are designed to make it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or tamper the key. They also help owners keep track of who used their vehicle.

Traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular shape. They are thinner than sidewinder key and have the same cut on both sides. Since they share the identical cut on both sides, these types of keys can fit in a lock either way. They can be duplicated with standard key machines that are available in hardware stores.

In the 1990s, laser-cut keys were introduced by luxury car manufacturers. The technology was successfully incorporated in various models to deter theft of cars. Laser cut keys are a lot thicker than traditional keys, and have more grooves carved out in their shanks. They are more expensive to produce, but are also more secure.

In order to cut the key with a laser locksmiths must first decode the existing key in the shop. Then, he or she sets the key cutting machine to match the cuts in the decoded key, and cuts the blade. This kind of key is much more complicated to copy, and takes more time to copy than a regular key. It is crucial that the locksmith utilizes an automated machine of top quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines also can create keys, which means they can make a key from an existing one that has already been cut.

Tools

Car key cutting is more than cutting a piece of metal It's an art that guarantees security, function, and longevity. Correctly cut keys ensure that they fit in the lock and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. A professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly, regardless of whether it's a mechanical or smart or transponder.

To create a duplicate key, a key is placed on the side of the machine and then aligned using a specific cutting tool. This serves as a template. Then, a blank key is positioned on the other side of the machine where it's aligned with an instrument guide to ensure that both keys remain in alignment during the duplication process. Both keys are cut simultaneously, resulting in duplicates that are identical to the original.

Look for key cutters that have multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. Two-way jaws are ideal for duplicating standard keys, while the four-way jaw is ideal for duplicates of laser cut key blades. Additionally, if you're making automotive keys like transponder or remote head keys make sure there's enough space between jaws for these kinds of key.

The right tool can assist you in establishing the business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is a reasonable price and provides the ability to cut almost every kind of key, excluding high security blanks. This model is mobile and ideal for those looking to start their own key cutting business.

The investment in a top-quality key cutting machine is costly, but it's worth the cost since it will allow you to originate and cut the majority of keys with code that includes transponder and smart keys. It's also great for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chips keys. If you're looking to program and clone high-security chips, however you'll require a second device that is able to communicate with the vehicle's onboard system and read the unique identification number (VIN). Finding the appropriate equipment for your key cutting business will save time and money in the long run.

Cutting

The key duplicator is a device that duplicates keys in the same form as the original keys. The key that was originally used 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 is positioned on the opposite side of the machine. A key cut guide is utilized to keep the two keys aligned as they are cut to create a perfect duplicated key.

While standard car keys can be cut with a key cutter, other types of keys require specialized machinery. Many modern vehicles are fitted with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that need to be programmed in order to start the engine. Transponder key cutters are required to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key, and program it for the vehicle.

In addition being able to cut various kinds of keys, the car key cutter has to be able to program the key to allow it to function with the ignition system. There are a myriad of models of car key-cutters available on the market. Each comes with its own unique features. The model you choose depends on the kind of key you're cutting and the number of keys you have to duplicate at once.

If you're interested in learning to make your own keys, a car key maker can be a valuable tool in your workshop. It is important to know that key cutting machines come in a wide range of high-quality. It is important to buy the machine by a reputable industry manufacturer with a long warranty. You should also ensure that the machine you buy can be easily repaired or replaced in the event of need.

There are three main types of key cutting machines available Manual Semi-Automatic, and Automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move keys around the key tracer wheel and cutter wheel. They are simple to operate but require your full concentration. A good option is the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated Machines are computer-driven, and do all the work for you. All you have to do is give them the information you need to do using the software that comes with the machine.

Programming

If the key is equipped with a transponder, it must be programmed to work with that specific vehicle. The procedure varies between types and makes however, it generally involves inserting a working key into ignition and leaving it in place for a couple of seconds. Then the new car key cut key needs to be inserted and left there for another few seconds. This allows the computer in the car to recognize the key and start the car. If you have a newer model car, you might be required to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a more intricate and expensive device.

Retailers are increasingly adding automobile key duplication machines into their stores because customers want them. These machines are simpler to use and more precise than manual machines for cutting keys. They also eliminate human error, making it possible to cut a key precisely and quickly. These machines are ideal for people who have lost their keys or damaged them.

You can also find car key cutters that specialize in the production of key fobs for replacement that match the latest models of vehicles. These devices employ the same technology that duplication machines use for car keys, but are able to create up to 50 copies at once. Some models come with touchscreens for better operation. They can also help you create smart keys that have transponder technology and open doors in a controlled manner.

A car key cutter is able to duplicate both metal keys and transponder cards. Some come with a remote head. A regular key has the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is a combination of a regular key and a fob that includes buttons to lock and unlock the car.

Most modern vehicles are outfitted with an anti-theft system that prevents keys that are not from the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the car's computers. If the chip is not properly programmed and the car is not programmed correctly, it will not start. A professional auto locksmith can program a new car key for you within a few minutes.