Car Key Cut: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

What Is Car Key Cutting? Modern car keys aren't the type you can bring to a self-serve kiosk at the mall to be cut. They require special sidewinder equipment and are designed to be compatible with the locking cylinders in your vehicle. Understanding the distinction between duplicate car keys and car key cutting can save you time, money and stress in the future. Keys The cutting of a car key is used to create a new key for the vehicle. Professionals are typically the ones who cut keys because it requires special equipment to create a unique shape and ensure it is compatible with the locks. A professional will usually offer a guarantee for the work they perform. In the past keys for cars were easy to find. Modern technology has made them more complicated. Many vehicles now use smart keys that have encryption as well as other security features to prevent theft. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or modify the key. They can also assist owners in keeping the track of who has used their vehicle. Traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular design. They are thinner than sidewinder key and have the same cut on both sides. These keys can fit into any lock as they share the same cut on both sides. They can also be duplicated using the standard key machines that are that are available in hardware stores. In the 1990s, laser-cut keys were introduced by luxury car manufacturers. The aim was to stop the theft of vehicles and the technology has been used successfully in various models. Laser cut keys have a thicker shank than traditional keys, and more grooves cut into them. They are a bit more expensive to make, but they are also more secure. In order to cut a laser cut key, a locksmith must first decode the key in the shop. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting device to match the key's cut and then cuts the blade. This type of key is much more complicated to copy, and it takes a longer time to copy than a regular key. It is essential that the locksmith is equipped with an excellent manual machine, like the Framon 2 machine or the Silca Futura Auto and Futura Pro. These machines also can create keys, meaning they can make a key from an existing one that has already been cut. You can also learn more about Car key cutting is more than just cutting a piece of metal It's an art that guarantees security, function, and longevity. Properly cut keys guarantee that they will fit into the lock and won't cause damage to it or the ignition. If you require a standard mechanical key or a transponder, smart or smart key professional will make sure that the key is cut correctly. To create a duplicate key, a key is placed on the machine's side and then aligned using a specific cutting tool. This is used as a template. Then the blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine, where it's aligned with an instrument guide to ensure that both keys remain in line during the duplication process. Both keys are then cut at the same time to create duplicates that match the original key. When selecting the key cutter, look for one that has various jaws and different ways to grip the key. Two-way jaws are ideal to duplicate standard keys while a four-way jaw is better for duplicates of key blades cut by laser. Also, if you'll be making keys for cars, such as a transponder or remote head keys ensure that there's enough space between the jaws for these styles of keys. The right tool can help you start your business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for example, is affordable 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 a novice who would like to begin a car key cutting business. It's expensive to invest in a premium machine for cutting keys however, the investment is worth it since you can cut and create the majority of keys with codes, such as transponder and smart keys. It's also great for programming and cloning RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chips keys. To clone or program high-security chip keys, you will need a device that can communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Choosing the best equipment for your key cutting business will save time and cash in the end. Cutting The key duplicator tool is a machine that cuts new keys to match the design of existing ones. The original key is positioned on one side of the machine, and then lined up with the cutting tool, which serves as an outline for the new key. The blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine. Key guides are used to keep the two keys in alignment while they are cut and shaped, creating a flawlessly duplicated new key. While standard car keys can be cut with a key cutter, other kinds of keys require special machines. Many modern vehicles are fitted with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that have to be programmed to start the engine. Transponder key cutters are required to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the keys and then program it to the vehicle. A car key cutter must be able to cut different types of keys but also to program them to work with the ignition system. There are laser key cutting of models of car key cutters on the market, each with its own distinctive set of features. The model you select will depend on the type of key you're cutting and the number of keys you have to copy at one time. A car key cutter is a great tool to have in your workshop if you are looking to learn how to make keys. You must be aware that key cutting equipment comes in a wide range of high-quality. It is important to buy the machine by a reputable manufacturer and has a good warranty. You should also make sure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced should it be required. There are three types of key cutting machines: Manual, semi-automatic and automated. Manual machines require users to manually move keys across the cutter wheel and tracer They are simple to use, but they require your complete concentration. A good choice would be the JMA Nomad, Silca Flash or the Silca 045. Automated Machines are computer-driven and do everything for you, all you need to do is to instruct them on what to do with the software program that is included with the machine. Programming If the key has a transponder it must be programmed to work with the specific vehicle. The process varies between models and makes and models, but generally involves inserting the key that is currently in use into the ignition and then leaving it for a couple of minutes. Then the new key needs to be inserted and left there for a few minutes. This allows the car's computer to recognize the key and begin the car. You may also have to program your keyless entry remote if you are using a more recent model of vehicle. This requires a complex and expensive device. Retailers are increasingly adding automobile key duplication machines into their stores because customers demand them. These machines are simple to operate and are more accurate than manual key cutting machines. They also eliminate human error, making it possible to cut a key accurately and quickly. These machines are ideal for those who have lost or have damaged keys. There is also a car key cutter that specializes in creating replacement key fobs for the latest models of automobiles. These devices employ the same technology as the car key duplication machines but can produce up to 50 copies at a time. Some models feature touchscreens for better operation. They can also create smart keys with 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 have a remote. A normal key has the same cuts on both sides. A remote head is an amalgamation of a regular key and fob that includes buttons to lock and unlock the car. Modern vehicles are fitted with an anti-theft system that prevents keys other than those from the manufacturer to be used in the ignition. The system relies on an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computers. If the chip isn't properly programmed and the car is not programmed correctly, it will not start. A professional auto locksmith can program a new car key for you in just a few minutes.