Lola Gannon
Blog entry by Lola Gannon
What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys aren't ones you can bring to a self-service kiosk at the mall to get cut. They require specialized sidewinder equipment, and are specifically designed to be compatible with the locking cylinders in your car.
Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and car key cutting can save you money, time and stress in the future.
Keys
The cutting process of a car key is used to create a new key for the vehicle. Professionals are usually the ones who do this because it requires specialized machinery to mark a key's unique shape and ensure that it is a good fit for the locks. A professional will often offer a guarantee 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 many vehicles to prevent theft. They come with encryption and other security measures. These features are designed to make it more difficult for thieves to replicate or alter the keys, and they can also aid the owner in keeping the track of who has used their vehicle.
The traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular form. They are smaller than a sidewinder key and have 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 standard key machines available in hardware stores.
In the 1990s, laser cut keys were introduced by luxury car manufacturers. The goal was to prevent theft of cars and the technology has been used successfully in many models. Laser cut keys are more durable than conventional keys, and also have more carved grooves in their shanks. The keys are more costly to produce, but are also more secure.
To cut keys with lasers locksmiths must first decode the existing 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 difficult to copy and is more difficult to copy. It is imperative that the locksmith utilizes 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, meaning they can make a new key from a key that has been cut.
Tools
Cutting car keys is more than just a simple metal shape. It's a skill that guarantees security and function. When keys are cut correctly, they will fit into the lock, and will not cause damage to the lock or the ignition. Whether you need a traditional mechanical key or a transponder, smart or smart key, a professional will ensure that it's cut correctly.
To make a brand new key, a previous automobile key cutting near me is placed on the opposite side of the duplicator and lined up with an specialized cutting key tool to be used as an example for the new key. Then the blank key is positioned on the opposite side of the machine where it is aligned with key guides to ensure that both keys remain in alignment during the duplication process. Both keys are cut simultaneously which results in duplicates that are identical to the original.
When you are choosing the key cutter, look for one that has various jaws and different ways to grip the key. A two-way key cutter is best for duplicates of standard key blades, while an option with four ways is best for laser cut keys. If you are planning to make use of the machine to duplicate keys from automobiles such as remote heads or transponder keys, ensure that there is enough space between the jaws.
The best tool will help you get started in the field. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that cuts almost any type of key, with the exception of high-security blanks. It is portable and ideal for those looking to establish their own car key cutting business.
It's costly to invest in a high-end machine to cut keys, however, the investment is worth it because it can cut and make most keys using codes, such as transponder and smart keys. It can also be used to program and clone RW4, MBOX and ZBULL chip keys. To program or clone high-security chip keys, you'll require a device that is able to communicate and read the unique identification numbers (VIN) of the vehicle. Getting the right equipment for your key cutting business will save you time and money in the long term.
Cutting
The key duplicator tool is a machine which cuts keys to fit the shape of the existing ones. The original key is put on one side of the machine and aligned with the cutting tool to serve as a template for the new key. The blank key is then positioned on the opposite side of the machine. Key guides are used to keep the two keys in alignment while they are cut, resulting in a perfectly duplicated new key.
While car keys that are standard can be cut using the key cutter, other types of keys require specialized machines. Many modern vehicles are fitted with smart key systems or proximity key fobs which need to be programmed in order to start the engine. To cut these types of keys, you will require a transponder key cutter that can trace the contours of the key and programming it to the vehicle.
In addition being able to cut various types of keys, car key cutters also has to be able to program the key in order to make it function properly 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 choose depends on the type of double sided key cutting near me you are cutting and how many keys you have to duplicate at once.
If you're interested in learning to make your own keys, a car key maker can be a valuable tool for your workshop. You must be aware that key cutting equipment comes in a variety of quality. It is crucial to purchase the machine by a reputable manufacturer and has a good warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine can be easily repaired or replaced should it be required.
There are three primary kinds of key cutting machines: Manual, semi-automatic and automatic. Manual machines require you to manually move keys around the key tracer wheel as well as the cutter wheel. They are easy to operate, but require your full concentration. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are excellent choices. Automated Machines are computer-driven and can do everything for you. All you have to do is specify what you want them to do with the software that comes with the machine.
Programming
If a key is equipped with transponder, it has to be programmed for the particular vehicle. The procedure differs between brands and models however, it usually involves inserting the original key into ignition and leaving it for a short period of time. Then the new key has to be inserted and left for a couple of minutes. This allows the car's computer to recognize the key and start the car. It is also possible to program your keyless entry remote if have a more recent model of vehicle. This requires a more intricate and expensive device.
Customers are demanding more car key duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are easier to use and more accurate than manual machines to cut keys. They also eliminate human error, making it possible to cut a key precisely and quickly. These machines are perfect for those who have lost their keys or have damaged them.
There are also car key cutters who specialize in creating replacement key fobs to be compatible with the latest models of automobiles. These devices use the exact same technology that duplication machines use for car keys, but can create up to 50 copies simultaneously. Some models come with a touchscreen for easier operation. They can also help you design smart keys that have transponder technology and open doors in a controlled manner.
A car key cutter is able to duplicate both metal keys and transponder cards. Some also have remote heads. A standard key has the same exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of an ordinary key and a fob which has buttons to lock and unlock 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 computer. If the chip isn't properly programmed the car won't start. In just a few minutes, a professional auto locksmith can create a new key for your vehicle.