5 Tools That Everyone Working In The Car Keys Cutting Industry Should Be Making Use Of
Car Keys Cutting
The cutting of keys for cars is designed to give car owners an extra key in the event the original one has been damaged or lost. It requires specialized equipment, as well as several different key types.
When choosing a service provider to cut your car keys, it is important to be aware of the types of keys, cutting methods, and pricing.
Key Blanks
The first step in car key cutting is choosing the right key blank. Key blanks can either be cut from scratch or pre-cut. Keys that are pre-cut are usually slightly more expensive since they can be used right away. However, they are more accurate because a trained locksmith has already traced the contours of the current key onto the blank.
No matter what type of blank key is used, locksmiths will still need to cut grooves and notches in it to match different types of pins and wards that are used in locks. The different shapes of grooves and notches can be made by a variety of methods, including disk-type keys cutting machines, pins or warding machines, or simply using an file. Locksmiths may also decide to utilize a rotary cutter instead of a pinning or warding machine to speed up and make more precise cuts.
Once the blank has been formed, it will be tested in a lock to ensure that all bits are positioned correctly. This is known as "biting" the blank key. The bow and shoulders of the key are also shaped to determine if the key can be turned in a lock, and also to determine if it is the correct size for the lock. The shape of the bow is often engraved with a manufacturer's name or logo to make it easy to identify which makes it easier to locate keys that are suitable for duplication.
Most key blanks for residential use consist of cylinder keys fitted with notches and grooves to accommodate different pin chambers. The most popular is the Yale pin tumbler cylinder which was created more than 150 years ago to give greater security than other locks at the time and requires a significantly smaller key. Cylindrical keys are used by virtually all made locks, including high quality padlocks and office supply locks. They also work with door locks and automobile locks.
Some keys have different imprints on them to discourage duplicates. For example keys with a keyring stamp or a "Do not duplicate". Locksmiths require a special license to distribute certain keys that are protected from unauthorised duplication. Other keys are restricted by the key manufacturers and cannot be sold or distributed.
Key Cutting Machines
If you're a locksmith and you need to have the right key cutting machine is crucial. These machines allow you to quickly and conveniently cut duplicate keys for customers. The key cutting machine uses an stylus to trace a key's outline, and then cuts the key using a blade. These tools can be used to cut various key kinds, including house keys car locks, skeleton keys and Yale locks.
The best key cutting machines will have multiple attachments that are able to accommodate different key types and cuts. This lets you offer various services to your customers and will save you time and the cost of replacing keys. The rotary key cutter, which is able to cut most types of keys is the most popular key cutting machine. A rotary key maker has two blades rotating that can cut both sides of the key at once, making it an efficient and cost-effective tool to use.
There are also electric key cutting machines that use computers to guide the user through the process. These devices are a great option for auto locksmiths that are looking to streamline their operations by eliminating the need to input manually key codes. They're also more durable than manual counterparts, and can be updated with new software updates as they become available.
A key-cutting machine can be programmed to duplicate keys for certain vehicle models. This is done by connecting the machine to an online database that contains all of the information needed to make a duplicate. This information is stored within the operating system of the machine and is used to make all cuts required for a certain model of vehicle within minutes.
A key cutting machine is available as a standalone device or it can be integrated into a mobile app that makes it easier to use. Futura Pro Auto, for instance is an electronic key-cutting machine which comes with its own tablet that gives step-by-step instructions. The tablet can be paired via Wi-Fi to the machine or directly tethered. This makes it simple to master the use of the machine, and allows the user to make new key cuts without having to replace the jaw assembly.
Key Fobs
Many modern vehicles require a key fob to lock or unlock the doors, or to start the engine. Often, the key fob can also have buttons that permit owners to remotely open the trunk or even open the windows.
The majority of modern car keys are fitted with an RFID transponder that can read the codes stored in it, which allows the vehicle to identify and communicate with the key fob. The key fob transmits radio signals to a receiver in the car, which uses rolling codes and encryption.
The computer in the car will then check the signal from the fob to determine if the codes are the same. If they are, the car can unlock or start its engine. This is why it's important for drivers to keep their key fobs in good condition.
You'll have to bring the fob from your vehicle to the shop to make sure that it's programmed correctly. The shop must follow the manufacturer's programming instructions that usually include an exact sequence of pressing on the key fob and a specific number of key turns when the ignition is turned. These instructions can be found in the owner's manual of the car or on the website of the automaker, and they should be followed exactly in order to avoid any errors which could lead to the key fob not being able to unlock or start the car.
Some manufacturers provide specialized key fobs that include additional features like keyless entry, starting by pressing a button, as well as the ability "summon" your car from a parking space, similar to Tesla's summon feature. These kinds of fobs usually cost more than regular ones but the additional features can be worth it for some users.
If car keys cut and programmed require a replacement fob for your key the best thing you can do is to get it from your dealer. Most newer cars have fobs that must be programmed to work with the vehicle, and this requires a certain amount of knowledge and equipment that many locksmiths and dealers don't have. Make sure to check your car's warranty or insurance policy to determine if it covers the cost of purchasing a new fob before purchasing one from an individual dealer.
Key Programming
Car key cutting is more than shaping a piece of metal. It's a service that ensures safety, efficiency and peace of mind for car owners. When you're making your own spare or replace a damaged one the process is complicated and requires knowledge, skill and the proper equipment. This is why you need to understand how it is done so that you are able to choose the best locksmith for the task.
There are many different types of car keys, starting with the traditional metal blanks to the key fobs. The majority of modern keys come with an electronic transponder, also known as a remote-control chip that communicates with the vehicle whenever they are used. The keys also have to be programmed, and this is where an auto locksmith can help. These are specialized pieces of equipment that read the code on the chip and then send it to your vehicle, which will accept it as an authentic digital signature. This is similar to method used by credit cards and allows you to start your vehicle.
A basic key made of metal can usually be made by your local locksmith or hardware store. However, modern key fobs can be more complex and require a specific type of software to be programmed. They are less likely to be duplicated at Home Depot or other hardware shops and should only be handled by an automotive parts department or locksmith.
Special tools allow dealers to read the ID code of your key directly from the ignition module. They can also get the PIN code (depending on make) from the modules. The dealer can use this information to create the replacement key. This method is more difficult, but will save you money.
Many professional locksmiths specialize in particular car models and have the required technology and software to perform the job right. They can also give you keys programming codes to get your key working as quickly as possible. This is a great way to avoid paying the full price for a replacement and to have your key functioning faster than waiting for the manufacturer to respond to the request.