What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys aren't the kind you can simply bring to a self-serve kiosk at the mall to cut. They require special sidewinder equipment and are specifically designed to be compatible with the locks cylinders that you have in your vehicle.

Understanding the difference between car key duplication and cutting a car key could save you time, money and stress in the future.

Keys

The cutting of a car key is to create a brand new car key. It is usually done by a professional because it requires specialized machinery to trace the key's unique profile and make sure it fits in all of the locks correctly. A professional will often offer a guarantee for the work they perform.

In the past, car keys were simple. Modern technology has made them more complex. Many cars now have smart keys that come with encryption as well as other security features to prevent theft. These features are intended to make it more difficult for thieves to duplicate or modify the key. They can also help owners keep the track of who has used their vehicle.

Traditional keys for cars are rectangular and flat form. They are thinner than sidewinder keys and feature the same cut on both sides. Because they have the identical cut on both sides, these kinds of keys can fit in locks in any way. These keys can be duplicated using standard key machines that are available in hardware stores.

Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, mainly by luxury car brands. The technology was successfully incorporated in a variety of models to stop vehicles from being stolen. Laser cut keys have a thicker shank than traditional keys, and more grooves cut into the keys. The keys are more costly to make, but are also more secure.

To cut a key with a laser, the locksmith must first decode a key that is already in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting device to match the key cutting open now's cut and cuts the blade. This type of key is more difficult to duplicate and takes more time to cut than a standard key. It is essential that the locksmith has a manual machine of high quality, such as the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines also can create keys, meaning they can make a key from a key that was cut.

Tools

Cutting keys for cars is more simply a simple shape of metal. It's a skill that guarantees security and function. Correctly cut keys ensure that they will fit into the lock, and won't cause damage to the lock or the ignition. A professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly, regardless of whether it's a mechanical or transponder or smart keys.

To make duplicate keys, a key is placed on the machine's side and then aligned using a specific cutting tool. This is used as a template. A blank key is then placed on the other side of the machine, aligned to the key guide. This will keep both keys aligned during the duplication. The two keys are cut at the same time to create duplicates that match the original key.

Look for a key cutter that has multiple jaws that are able 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. If you intend to use the machine to duplicate keys from automobiles such as transponder keys or remote heads, ensure that there is enough space between the jaws.

The right tool can locksmith cut car keys assist you in establishing your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut nearly every type of key aside from high-security blanks. It is also suitable for mobile use, making it an excellent option for a novice who would like to begin a car key cutting business.

A high-end key cutting machine is expensive, but it's well worth the investment because it allows you to originate and cut the majority of keys with code that includes transponder and smart keys. It's also useful for programming and cloning RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chips keys. To program or clone high-security chip keys, you'll need a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. The right equipment will help you save time and money.

Cutting

The key duplicator is a tool that duplicates keys in the same form as the original ones. The original key is placed on one side of the machine, and then lined up with the cutting tool, which serves as an outline for the new key. The blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is used to align the two keys while they are being cut. This produces a perfect replica of the key.

While standard car keys can be cut with the key cutter, other kinds of keys require special machinery. Many modern cars are equipped with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that have to be programmed to start the vehicle. Transponder key cutters are required to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key, and program it for the vehicle.

A car key cutter needs to be able to not only cut various types of keys but also to program them to work with the ignition system. There are many different models of car key cutters available on the market, each with its own unique set of features. The model you pick depends on the type of key you are cutting and how many keys you have to duplicate at once.

A car key cutter is a useful tool to have in your workshop if you wish to master the art of making keys. However, you must be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can vary significantly. It is important to purchase a machine from a reputable manufacturer that has a solid guarantee. You should also ensure that the machine you purchase is able to be repaired or replaced if necessary.

There are three main types of key cutting machine The three main types are manual, semi-automatic and automated. Manual machines require you to manually move keys around the key tracer wheel and cutter wheel. They are easy to operate, but require your full concentration. The best 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 give them the information you need to accomplish by using the software included 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 for different models and makes, but usually involves inserting the key that is currently in use into the ignition and then leaving it for a short period of time. Then, insert the new key and leave it there for a couple of seconds. This process will allow the car to recognize the new key and allows it to start the car. If you have a more recent model car, you may be required to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complicated and expensive device.

Retailers are progressively adding automobile key duplication machines into their stores due to the fact that customers are looking for them. These machines are simpler to use and more accurate than manual machines to cut keys. They eliminate human error and provide precise and fast key cutting. These machines are perfect for those who have lost their keys or have damaged them.

There is also a car key cutter that specializes in creating replacement key fobs for the latest models of cars. These devices use the exact same technology used in duplication machines for car keys, but can create up to 50 copies at once. Some models come with touchscreens for better operation. They can also design smart keys with an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.

A car key cutter can duplicate both regular keys made of metal and transponder keys. Some come with a remote head. A regular key has the exact same cut on both sides. A remote head is a combination of a normal key and a fob, that has buttons for locking and unlocking the car.

Modern cars come with an anti-theft system which prohibits the use of keys that are not the ones supplied by the manufacturer in the ignition. This system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the car's computer. The car won't start when the chip isn't programmed correctly. A professional auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you in a few minutes.