What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys aren't ones you can bring to a self-serve kiosk in the mall to get car key cut cut. They require specialized sidewinder cutting equipment and are designed to fit into the specific lock cylinder of your car.

Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting car keys will save you time, money and stress.

Keys

The cutting of a car key is to create a brand new car key. This is typically done by a professional, as it requires specialized equipment to trace the unique profile of the key and make sure it fits in all locks in the right way. Professionals usually offer a guarantee for the work they do.

In the past, car keys were simple however, modern technology has made them more complicated. Smart keys are found in a variety of vehicles to deter theft. They contain encryption and other security measures. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or alter the keys and also help the owner keep an eye on who has used their vehicle.

Traditional keys for cars are rectangular and flat shape. They are smaller than sidewinder keys and they feature the same cuts on both sides of the blade. Since they share the identical cut on both sides, these types of keys can fit in the lock in any way. They can also be duplicated using standard key machines found in hardware stores.

Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, mainly by luxury car brands. The technology was successfully implemented in a variety of models to stop vehicles from being stolen. Laser cut keys are a lot thicker than conventional keys, and also have more carved grooves in their shanks. They are slightly more expensive to produce but they're also more secure.

To cut a laser-cut keys the locksmith first decode an existing key in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key cutting machine to match the key's cut and then cuts the blade. This kind of key is much more difficult to duplicate, programming and takes more time than a regular key. It is essential that the locksmith uses 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 from existing ones, i.e. they can make new keys by using an existing key that has been cut.

Tools

Car key cutting is more than cutting a piece of metal it's an art form that guarantees security, efficiency, and longevity. Properly cut keys guarantee that they will fit into the lock and won't 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 ensure that the key is cut correctly.

To make a new key, an original one is positioned on the opposite side of the duplicator and aligned with an instrument designed for cutting to be used as an outline for the new key. Then the blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine where it's aligned with a key guide to keep both keys in alignment during the duplicate process. Both keys are then cut simultaneously to produce duplicates that match the original key.

Look for a key cutter that has multiple jaws that can hold the key. Two-way jaws are ideal for duplicate keys of standard size, while a four-way jaw is better for duplicates of key blades cut by laser. Additionally, if you're making keys for cars, such as a transponder or remote head keys ensure that there is enough space between the jaws to accommodate these types of keys.

The right tool will help you start your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is affordable and can cut nearly every type of key except for high security blanks. It is portable and ideal for those who want to start their own car key cuts near me key cutting business.

The investment in a top-quality key cutting machine is expensive, but it's worth the cost because it allows you to create and cut most keys by code including transponder and programming smart keys. It's also good for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chip keys. If you're planning to program and clone high-security chips however you'll require an additional device that is able to communicate with the onboard system of your vehicle and read the unique identification number (VIN). Finding the appropriate equipment for your key cutting business will save you time and money in the long run.

Cutting

The key duplicator is a tool that cuts new keys to match the shape of the existing ones. The original key is put on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool, which serves as a template for the new key. The blank key is placed on the other side of the machine. Key guides are used to keep the two keys in alignment during the cutting process, resulting in a perfectly duplicated key.

Other kinds of keys require special equipment. Keys for cars that are standard can be cut using the use of a key cutter. Many modern cars are equipped with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that must be programmed to start the vehicle. To cut these types of keys, you need a transponder key cutter capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.

In addition being able to cut various kinds of keys, car key cutters also has to be able to program the key in order to allow it to function with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key cutters available on the market each with its own distinctive set of features. The model you choose depends on the kind of key you're cutting and how many keys you will need to copy at one time.

A car key cutter is an excellent tool to have in your workshop if you are looking to master the art of making keys. But, be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can differ significantly. It is important to buy an item that is manufactured by a reputable industry manufacturer with a long warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine is easily repaired or replaced should it be required.

There are 3 main kinds of key cutting machines that are available: Manual Semi-Automatic, and Automatic. Manual Machines require users to manually move keys along the cutter wheel and tracer They are easy to use but do require your full attention. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are excellent choices. Automatic Machines are computer driven and do everything for you. All you need to do is specify what you want them to do using the software program that is included with the machine.

Programming

If a key is outfitted with a transponder, it needs to be programmed for the particular car. The process varies among types and makes however, it generally involves inserting an operational key into the ignition and then leaving it for a couple of seconds. Then insert the new key and leave it there for a couple of minutes. This allows the car's computer to recognize the key and start the vehicle. You may also need to program your keyless entry remote if you are using a more recent model of car. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.

Retailers are progressively adding cars key duplication machines to their stores because customers demand them. These machines are easier to use and more precise than manual machines used to cut keys. They also eliminate human mistakes, allowing you to cut a key accurately and quickly. These machines are perfect for people who have lost their keys or have damaged them.

You can also find car key cutters who specialize in the creation of key fobs for replacement that match the latest models of vehicles. These devices use the same technology as key duplication machines, but can produce up to 50 copies at once. Some models come with touchscreens to make it easier to operate. They can also create smart keys that have an RFID chip that allows doors to open automatically.

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

Modern cars are equipped with an anti-theft system that prohibits the use of keys other than the ones provided by the manufacturer on the ignition. This system relies upon an electronic chip for communication with the computer in the car. If the chip is not properly programmed the car won't start. In just a few minutes, a qualified auto locksmith will program a new key for your vehicle.