What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys are not the kind you can simply take to a self-service kiosk in the mall to be cut. They require specialized sidewinder equipment, and are designed to be compatible with the lock cylinders of your car.
Understanding the distinction between car key duplication and car key cutting could save you money, time and stress in the near future.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of creating the key for a vehicle. Professionals are typically the ones who perform this since it requires specially designed equipment to mark a key's 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 keys for cars were simple however, modern technology has made them more complicated. Smart keys are found in a lot of vehicles to protect against theft. They contain encryption and other security measures. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or alter the key and also aid the owner in keeping an eye on who has used their vehicle.
The traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular shape. They are a lot thinner than sidewinder keys, and have the same cuts on both sides of the blade. They can fit into any lock since they have the exact same cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated with standard key machines available in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the early 1990s, mostly by luxury car manufacturers. The technology was successfully incorporated in a variety of models to stop theft of cars. Laser cut keys are thicker than traditional keys, and they have more carved grooves in their shanks. They are a bit more expensive to make however they are more secure.
To cut a laser-cut keys, the locksmith must first decode an existing key in the store. Then, he or she sets the key cutting machine to match the cut marks in the key decoded, and cuts the blade. This kind of key is more difficult to duplicate and is more difficult to copy. It is essential that the locksmith is equipped with a high-quality manual machine, like the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines also can create keys, which means they can make a new key from a key that has already been cut.
Tools
Car key cutting is more than just cutting a piece of metal; it's an art that guarantees security, efficiency and durability. Properly-cut keys ensure that they will fit into the lock and won't cause damage to the lock or the ignition. No matter if you need a standard mechanical key or a transponder, smart or smart key, a professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly.
To create a new key, an original one is placed on the side of the duplicator and aligned with an specialized cutting tool to be used as a template for the new key. A blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine, aligned to the key guide. This keeps both keys aligned during the duplication. mobile key cutting are cut at the same time to create duplicates that are identical to the original key.
When choosing the key cutter, look for one that offers various jaws and different ways to hold the key. A two-way cutter is the best to duplicate standard key blades, whereas a 4-way one is better for laser cut keys. Also, if you'll be making keys for cars, such as a transponder keys or remote heads make sure there's enough space between the jaws for these kinds of key.
The right tool will aid you in starting your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that cuts almost every kind of key, except for high-security blanks. It is also suitable for use on mobile devices and is a good choice for a beginner who is looking to begin a car key cutting business.
The investment in a top-quality key cutting machine can be expensive, but it's worth it because it allows you to design and cut keys using code that includes transponder and smart keys. It's also useful for cloning and programming RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other key chips. If you want to clone and program high-security chips, you'll need an additional device that can connect to the vehicle's onboard system and identify the unique identification number (VIN). Getting the appropriate equipment for your key cutting business will save you time and cash in the end.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a device that duplicates keys with the same shape as existing keys. The original key is placed on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool to serve as an example for the new key. The blank key will be positioned on opposite side of the machine. A key guide is employed in order to align the two keys as they are being cut. This produces an exact replica of the new key.
While standard car keys can be cut with the key cutter, other types of keys require specialized equipment. Many modern vehicles are fitted with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that have to be programmed in order to start the engine. Transponder key cutters are required to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key, and program it for the vehicle.
In addition being able to cut various kinds of keys, car key cutters also must be able program the key in order to make it function properly with the ignition system. There are a variety of models of car key-cutters available on the market. Each comes with distinct characteristics. The model you pick depends on the type of key you're cutting as well as the number of keys you need to copy at one time.
A car key cutter is a great tool to keep in your workshop if you want to learn how to make keys. However, you should be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can differ significantly. It is important to buy the machine by a reputable industrial manufacturer and has a good warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine you purchase can be easily repaired or replaced in the event of need.
There are three types of key cutting machines 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 they require your full attention. A good option is the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automatic Machines are computer-driven and 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 the key has a transponder it must be programmed to work with the specific vehicle. The process differs between different types and makes however, it generally involves inserting an operational key into the ignition and then leaving it for a few seconds. Then you insert the new one and leave it for a couple of seconds. This process allows the car to recognize the new key and allow it to start the vehicle. It is also possible to program your keyless entry remote in case you have a newer model of car. This requires a more complicated and expensive device.
Retailers are progressively adding cars key duplication machines to their stores due to the fact that customers are looking for them. These machines are easy to use and more precise than manual key cutting machines. These machines remove human error and allow for rapid and precise key cutting. These machines are perfect for people who have lost or have damaged keys.
You can also find car key cutters that specialize in the creation of replacement key fobs to be compatible with the latest models of vehicles. These devices utilize the same technology as duplication machines for car keys, but they can produce up to 50 copies at once. Some models feature touchscreens for better operation. They can also create smart keys that include an RFID chip that allows doors to open automatically.
A car key cutter can be used to duplicate keys made of metal and transponder cards. Some also come with remote heads. A normal key has the same exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is an amalgamation of a regular key and a fob that has buttons to lock and unlock the car.

Most modern vehicles are outfitted with an anti-theft device that prohibits keys other than those from the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip to communicate with the computer in the car. The car won't start if the chip is not programmed correctly. A professional auto locksmith can program a brand new car key for you within a few minutes.