What Is Car Key Cutting?

Modern car keys cannot be cut at a self-service kiosk in the mall. They require special sidewinder equipment and are designed to be compatible with the locks cylinders that you have in your car.

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

Keys

Car key cutting is the process of creating a new key for a vehicle. Professionals are usually the ones who do this, as it takes special equipment to create a unique shape and ensure that it is a good fit for the locks. In addition professionals often offer a warranty on the work they perform.

In the past, car keys were simple however, modern technology has made them more complex. Many vehicles now use smart keys that contain encryption and 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 aid the owner in keeping an eye on who has used their vehicle.

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

Laser cut keys were first introduced in the 1990s, mainly by luxury car manufacturers. The idea was to stop cars from being stolen and the technology has been successfully used in various models. Laser cut keys have a stronger shank than traditional keys, and more grooves that are carved into them. The keys are more expensive to produce, but are also more secure.

In order to cut a laser key cutting cut key, a locksmith must first decode the key in the shop. The locksmith then adjusts the key cutting machine to match the key's cuts and cuts the blade. This type of key is more complicated to copy, and takes longer time to cut than a standard key. It is important that the locksmith uses 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 create new keys using an existing key that has been cut.

Tools

Car key cutting is more than just shaping a piece of metal; it's an art that guarantees security, efficiency, and longevity. When keys are cut correctly, they ensure that they fit into the lock and won't damage it or the ignition. A professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly, no matter if it's a mechanical key or smart or transponder.

To make duplicate keys the key is positioned on the side of the machine and then aligned using a specific cutting tool. This is used as a template. Then, a blank key is positioned on the other side of the machine. There, it's aligned with an instrument guide to ensure that both keys remain in alignment during the duplicate process. The two keys are cut simultaneously to produce duplicates that are identical to the original key.

When choosing a key cutter, look for one that offers multiple jaws with different options to hold the key. A two-way jaw is perfect for duplicate keys of standard size, while the four-way jaw is ideal for duplicates of key blades that are laser cut. Additionally, if you're making keys for automobiles, such as transponder keys or remote heads make sure there's enough space between jaws for these kinds of keys.

The appropriate tool can help you get started in the field. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is a reasonable price and provides the ability to cut nearly any kind of key, with the exception of high security blanks. It is also suitable for use on the move and is a good option for someone who is just starting out and would like to begin a car key cutting business.

The investment in a top-quality key cutting machine is costly, but it's worth the investment because it will allow you to design and cut most keys by code, including smart and transponder keys. It can also be used to clone and program RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. If you're planning to program and clone high-security chips however, you'll need an additional device that is able to communicate with the vehicle's onboard system and read the unique identification number (VIN). Choosing the best equipment for your key cutting car key business (check out here) will save you time and money in the long run.

Cutting

The key duplicator is a device that duplicates keys with the same shape as the existing keys. The original key is placed on one side of the machine, and then lined up with the cutting tool to serve as a template for the new key. The blank key is placed on the opposite side of the machine. Key guides are used to keep the two keys in line as they are cut, resulting in a perfectly duplicated new key.

While car keys that are standard can be cut with a key cutter, other types of keys require specialized equipment. Most newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that 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 to being able to cut various kinds of keys, the car key cutter must be able program the key to make it function properly with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key cutters on the market, each with its own distinct 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 will need to copy at once.

A car key cutter is an excellent tool to have in your workshop if you wish to learn how to create keys. But, be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can differ greatly. It is essential to purchase an item from a reputable manufacturer that has a solid warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine you buy can be repaired or replaced if needed.

There are three primary kinds of key cutting machines The three main types are manual, semi-automatic and automated. Manual machines require you to manually move keys along the key tracer and cutter wheel They are simple to use, but they require your complete focus. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are excellent choices. Automated Machines are computer-driven, and will complete all the work for you. All you need to do is give them the information you need to do using the software that comes with the machine.

Programming

If the key is equipped with 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 van key cutting into the ignition and then leaving it there for a couple of seconds. Then insert the new key and leave it there for a few minutes. This allows the computer of the car to recognize this key and start the vehicle. If you have a more recent model car, you may also need to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complex and expensive device.

Retailers are adding more car key duplication machines to their stores because customers want them. They are easy to use and more accurate than manual machines to cut keys. These machines remove human error and allow for accurate and quick key cutting. These machines are ideal for people who are lost or have damaged keys.

You can also find a car key cutter that specializes in the creation of replacement key fobs for the latest models of cars. These devices employ the same technology as car key cutting and programming key duplication machines but can create up to 50 copies at a time. Some models have a touchscreen for easier operation. They can also make smart keys with a transponder to open doors automatically.

A car key cutter can be used to duplicate keys made of metal and transponder cards. Some keys also include a remote head. A normal key has the exact same cuts on both sides. A remote head is a combination of a normal key and a fob, that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car.

Modern cars come with a security system that prohibits the use of keys that are not those provided by the manufacturer on the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip that communicates with the computer in the car. The car won't start in the event that the chip is not programmed correctly. In a matter of minutes, a certified auto locksmith can create a new key for your vehicle.