What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys are not the type you can take to a self-service kiosk at the mall to get cut. They require specialized sidewinder key-cutting equipment and are specifically designed to work in the specific lock cylinder of your car.

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

Keys

Car key cutting is the process of making a new key for a vehicle. Professionals are typically the ones who do this because it requires specialized machinery to mark a key's distinctive shape and ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. A professional will often offer a guarantee for the work they perform.

In the past keys for cars were easy, but modern technologies have 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 designed to make it difficult for thieves to duplicate or alter the key and also help the owner keep track of who has used their vehicle.

Traditional keys for cars have a rectangular and flat design. They are thinner than sidewinder keys and feature the same cut on both sides. These keys are able to fit in any lock because they have the exact same cut on both sides. They can be duplicated using traditional key machines that can be that are available in hardware stores.

In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by high-end car manufacturers. The aim was to stop the theft of vehicles, and the technology has been successfully deployed in various models. Laser cut keys are more durable than traditional keys, and they have more carved grooves in their shanks. The keys are more costly to manufacture, but they are also more secure.

In order to cut the key with a laser, a locksmith has to first decode the existing key in the shop. He or she then sets the key cutting machine to match the cuts in the key decoded, and cuts the blade. This type of key is harder to duplicate and is more difficult to copy. It is essential that the locksmith uses a manual machine of high quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines can also create keys from existing ones, i.e. they can create new keys using an existing key that has been cut.

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

To make a new key, an existing one is placed on the opposite side of the duplicator and aligned with a specialized cutting tool to create an example for the new key. Then the blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. There, it is aligned with a key guide to ensure that both keys remain in line during the duplication process. The two keys are cut at the same time to create duplicates that match the original key.

Find key cutters with multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. A two-way key cutter is best for duplicates of traditional key blades, while a 4-way one is better for laser cut keys. If you plan to use the machine to duplicate automotive keys such as remote heads or transponder keys make sure there enough space between the jaws.

The right tool will assist you in establishing your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut almost every type of key with the exception of high-security blanks. This model is also suited for use on mobile car key cutting devices which makes it a great option for someone who is just starting out and would like to start a key cutting business.

It can be expensive to invest in a premium machine for cutting keys but it's worth it since you can cut and originate the majority of keys with codes, such as transponder and smart keys. It's also useful for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other 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. Choosing the appropriate equipment for your key cutting business can save you time and money in the long run.

Cutting

The key duplicator is a tool that duplicates keys with 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 positioned on the opposite side of the machine. A key guide is employed in order to align the two keys as they are being cut. This results in a perfect replica of the key.

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

In addition being able cut various types of keys, the car key cutter must be able program the key in order to allow it to function with the ignition system. There are many different models of car key cutters on the market, each with its own unique set of features. The model you select will depend on the kind of key you're cutting as well as the number of keys you have to copy at once.

If you're interested in learning how to make your own keys using a car key cutter, it could be a great tool in your workshop. It is important to know that key cutting equipment comes in a variety of high-quality. It is important to buy an item that is manufactured by a reputable manufacturer with a long warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine you purchase is able to be repaired or replaced in the event of need.

There are three main types of key cutting machine: Manual, semi-automatic and automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move the keys across the cutter wheel and tracer They are easy to use however they require your full attention. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are both good options. Automated Machines are computer-driven, and do all the work for you. All you need to do is specify what you want them to do using the software included with the machine.

Programming

If the key has an electronic transponder, it needs to be programmed to work with the specific vehicle. The process varies among makes and models, but it usually involves inserting a working key into the ignition and then leaving it in place for a short period of time. Then the new key needs to be inserted and left there for a few minutes. This 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 also have to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complex and expensive device.

Retailers are adding more automobile spare key Cutting duplication machines into their stores because customers want them. These machines are simpler to use and are more precise than manual machines used to cut keys. These machines eliminate human error and permit rapid and precise key cutting. These machines are ideal for those who have lost or have damaged keys.

You can also locate a car key cutter that is specialized in creating replacement key fobs for the latest models of automobiles. These devices employ the same technology used in duplication machines for car keys, but are able to produce up to 50 copies simultaneously. Some models feature touchscreens for better operation. They can also create smart keys that include an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.

A car key cutter can duplicate both regular keys made of metal and transponder keys. Some have remotes. A standard key has the same exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of a regular local key cutting and a fob with buttons for locking and unlocking the car.

Modern vehicles are fitted with an anti-theft system that prevents keys other than those supplied by the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip to communicate with the car's computers. If the chip isn't properly programmed, the car will not start. A professional auto locksmith can program a new car key for you in just a few minutes.