What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys cannot be cut at a self-service kiosk located in a mall. They require specialized sidewinder key-cutting equipment and are designed to work in the lock cylinder specific to your vehicle.
Understanding the distinction between duplicate car keys and cutting your car keys will save you money, time and stress in the future.
Keys
The process of cutting the car key is to create a new vehicle key. Professionals are usually the ones who cut keys since it requires special equipment to mark a key's unique shape and ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. In addition, a professional can often offer a warranty on the work that they do.
In the past keys for cars were easy, but modern technologies have made them more complex. Many vehicles now use 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 track of who has used their vehicle.
The traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular shape. They are much smaller than sidewinder keys and they have the same cut on both sides of the blade. They can fit into any lock since they have the exact cut on both sides. They can be duplicated using 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 implemented in various models to deter theft of cars. Laser cut keys have a thicker shank than traditional keys, and more grooves that are carved into them. They are a bit more expensive to make however they are more secure.
To cut a key with a laser the locksmith first decode a key that is already in the store. He or she then sets the key cutting machine to match the cut marks in the key decoded and then cuts the blade. This type of key is harder to duplicate and is more difficult. It is imperative 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 also can create keys from existing keys, i.e. they can create new keys using an existing key that has been cut.
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Car key cutting is more than creating a metal piece; it's an art that guarantees security, efficiency and long-term durability. Correctly cut keys ensure that they'll fit in the lock, and will not cause damage 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 create a new key, a previous one is positioned on the side of the duplicator and aligned using an instrument designed for cutting to serve as an example for the new key. A blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine and aligned to a key guide. This will keep both keys aligned during the duplication. Both keys are cut at the same time and produce duplicates that are identical to the original.
When selecting the right key cutter, search for one that offers several jaws that have different ways to hold the key. A two-way jaw is ideal to duplicate standard keys while four-way jaws are better to duplicate key blades that are laser cut. Also, if you'll be using the machine to make keys for automobiles, such as remote head or transponder key, make sure that there's enough space between jaws to accommodate these types of keys.
The best tool will aid you in starting the field. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for example, is affordable and has the capability to cut almost every kind of key, excluding high-security blanks. It is portable and is ideal for those who want to start their own key cutting business.
It's costly to invest in a high-end machine for cutting keys but the investment is worth it since you can cut and originate the majority of keys with codes, including transponder as well as smart keys. It can also be used to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. To clone or program high-security chip keys, you'll require a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. The right equipment can help you save time and money.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a device that duplicates keys in the same form as the original ones. The original key is placed on one side of the machine and aligned to the cutting tool. This serves as a template to design the new key. The blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is utilized to keep the two keys in alignment during the cutting process, resulting in a perfectly duplicated key.
While car keys that are standard can be cut using a key cutter, different types of keys require specialized machinery. Most newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs which need to be programmed 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.
In addition being able to cut different types of keys, car key cutters also must be able program the key to make it function properly with the ignition system. There are many different models of car key cutters on the market each with its own distinct set of features. The model you select is based on the kind of key you're cutting and how many copies you'll need at once.
A car key cutter is a useful tool to keep in your workshop if you wish to learn how to make keys. But, be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can differ greatly. It is important to buy a machine that is made by a reputable industrial manufacturer with a long warranty. You should also ensure that the machine you buy can be easily repaired or replaced if needed.
There are three types of key cutting machines: Manual Semi-Automatic, Automatic and Manual. Manual machines require you to manually move the keys between the cutter wheel and tracer, they are easy to use, but they require your complete concentration. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are excellent choices. G28 Car Keys are computer driven and can do everything for you, all you need to do is to specify what you want them to do using the software program that comes with the machine.
Programming
If a key is outfitted with transponder, it has to be programmed to the specific vehicle. The procedure differs between models and makes however, it usually involves inserting the original key into ignition and leaving it for a couple of minutes. Then you insert the new one and leave it there for a few minutes. This allows the computer in the car to recognize the key and start the vehicle. You may also have to program your keyless entry remote in case you are using a more recent model of vehicle. This requires a sophisticated and expensive device.
Retailers are progressively adding automobile key duplication machines into their stores because customers demand them. These machines are simple to use and more accurate than manual key cutting machines. They also eliminate human errors, making it possible to cut keys accurately and quickly. These machines are ideal for those who have lost or have damaged their keys.
You can also find car key cutters who specialize in the creation of key fobs that can be used as replacements to match the latest models of automobiles. These devices use the same technology as key duplication machines, but can make up to 50 copies at a time. Some models have touchscreens to make it easier to operate. They can also design smart keys that have an RFID chip that allows doors to open automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate both regular metal keys and transponder keys. Some include remote heads. A normal key has the same cut on both sides. A remote head is a combination of an ordinary key and a fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern cars are equipped with a security system that prevents the use of keys that are not the ones provided by the manufacturer in the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip that communicates with the computer in the car. The car will not start in the event that the chip is not programmed correctly. A qualified auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you in a few minutes.