25 Surprising Facts About Car Key Cut
What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys aren't the kind you can simply bring to a self-service kiosk at the mall to get cut. They require specialized sidewinder key cutting equipment and are specifically designed to fit into the lock cylinder specific to your vehicle.
Understanding the difference between duplication of car keys and cutting car keys will save you money, time and stress.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of making an entirely new key for a vehicle. Professionals are usually the ones who perform this because it requires special equipment to mark a key's distinctive shape and ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. Additionally, a professional can often provide a guarantee on the work that they do.
In the past keys for cars were simple. Modern technology has made them more complex. Many vehicles now use smart keys that contain encryption, as well as other security features to guard against theft. These features are designed to make it difficult for thieves to duplicate or alter the key and can assist the owner to keep the track of who has used their vehicle.
The traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular form. They are much thinner than sidewinder keys, and have the same cut on both sides of the blade. These keys are able to fit into any lock as they have the exact cut on both sides. These keys can also be duplicated using standard key machines found in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser-cut keys were introduced by high-end car manufacturers. The technology was able to be used in a variety of models to stop vehicles from being stolen. Laser cut keys are thicker than traditional keys, and they have more carved grooves in their shanks. The keys are more expensive to make, but are also more secure.
To cut the key with a laser, a locksmith must first decode the existing key in the shop. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting machine to match the key's cuts and then cuts the blade. This type of key is much more difficult to duplicate and takes more time to copy than a regular key. It is essential that the locksmith is equipped with a high-quality manual machine, such as the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines can also create keys from existing keys, i.e. they can make new keys by using 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 long-term durability. Properly cut keys guarantee that they fit into the lock and won't harm it or the ignition. If you require a standard mechanical key or a transponder, smart or smart key, a professional will ensure that it's cut correctly.
To make a duplicate key the key is positioned on the side of the machine and then aligned using a specific cutting tool. This serves as a template. A blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine, aligned to a 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.
Find key cutters with multiple jaws to grip the key. A two-way jaw is perfect for duplicate keys of standard size, while the four-way jaw is ideal for duplicating laser cut key blades. 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 key.
car key cutting and programming can help you start your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut nearly every kind of key, except for high-security blanks. The model is portable and is ideal for those who wish to establish their own car key cutting business.
The investment in a top-quality key cutting machine is costly, but it's worth the cost because it allows you to originate and cut most keys by code that includes transponder and smart keys. It can also be used to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip 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. Getting the appropriate equipment for your key cutting business will save time and cash in the end.
Cutting
The key duplicator is an instrument that duplicates keys with the same form as the original 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 to create the new key. The blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is used to align the two keys while they are being cut. This produces an exact replica of the new key.
Other types of keys need special equipment. Keys for cars that are standard can be made with the help of a key cutter. Most newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs which need to be programmed to start the engine. Transponder key cutters are required to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key, and then program it to 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 on the market each with its own distinctive set of features. The model you select will depend on the type of key you're cutting and the number of copies you require at a 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 differ greatly. It is crucial to purchase the machine by a reputable industry manufacturer with a long warranty. You should also make sure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced if needed.
There are three primary types of key cutting machine Semi-automatic, manual and automated. Manual machines require you to manually move the keys along the key tracer and cutter wheel, they are easy to use, but they require your full concentration. A good choice would be the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated Machines are computer-driven, and will do all the work for you. All you need to do is tell them what you want to do using the software included with the machine.
Programming
If a key is outfitted with transponder, it has to be programmed to the specific vehicle. The process differs between different types and makes, but it usually involves inserting a working key into the ignition and then leaving it in place for a short period of time. Then you insert the new one and leave it there for a few minutes. This procedure will allow the car to recognize the new key and allows it to start the vehicle. It is also possible to program your keyless entry remote if have a newer model of car. This requires a complex and expensive device.
Retailers are adding more car key duplication machines to their stores because customers demand them. These machines are simple to use and are more precise than manual key cutting machines. These machines remove human error and allow for rapid and precise key cutting. These machines are ideal for people who have lost or have damaged their keys.
You can also find a car key cutter that is specialized in making replacement keys for the most recent models of cars. These devices use the same technology as car key duplication machines, but they can create up 50 copies at once. Some models come with a touchscreen display for more comfortable operation. They can also make smart keys with an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate both regular metal keys and transponder keys. Some keys have remotes. A standard key has the exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a normal key and fob which includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern cars are equipped with an anti-theft system that blocks 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 in the event that the chip is not programmed correctly. A professional auto locksmith can program a new car key for you in a few minutes.