What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys are not ones you can bring to a self-serve kiosk in the mall to cut. They require special sidewinder equipment and are designed to be compatible with the locking cylinders in your car.
Understanding the difference between car key duplication and cutting your car keys could save you time, money and stress in the future.
Keys
The cutting process of the car key is to create a new key for the vehicle. Professionals are typically the ones who do this because it requires specially designed equipment to trace a key's distinctive shape and ensure that it fits into the locks correctly. Additionally, a professional can often offer a warranty on the work they do.
In the past keys for cars were easy, but modern technologies have made them more complex. A lot of vehicles today use smart keys that have encryption and other security features to guard against theft. These features are designed to make it harder for thieves to duplicate or alter the key and can assist the owner to keep the track of who has used their vehicle.
Traditional keys for cars have a rectangular and flat form. They are smaller than a sidewinder keys and have the same cut on both sides. These keys can fit into any lock as they have the exact cut on both sides. These keys can be duplicated using the standard key machines that are found in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, mainly by luxury car manufacturers. The aim was to stop theft of cars and the technology has been successfully deployed in many models. Laser cut keys are more durable than traditional keys, and have more carved out grooves in their shanks. The keys are more costly to make, but are also more secure.
To cut a laser-cut key, the locksmith must first decode a key that is already in the store. The locksmith then adjusts the key-cutting machine to match the key's cuts and cuts the blade. This kind of key is harder to duplicate and is more difficult to copy. It is imperative that the locksmith has a manual machine that is of high quality, such as the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines can also originate keys, meaning they can make a new key from one that has already been cut.
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Cutting keys for cars is more than just a simple metal shape. It's a technique that guarantees security and efficiency. Properly-cut keys ensure that they will fit into the lock, and won't cause damage to the lock or the ignition. A professional will ensure the key is cut correctly, no matter if it's a mechanical key or transponder or smart key.
To make a duplicate key, a key is placed on the side of the machine and aligned by a special cutting tool. This serves as an outline. A blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine, aligned to the key guide. This keeps both keys in line during duplication. Both keys are cut simultaneously which results in duplicates that are identical to the original.

Find key cutters that have multiple jaws that are able to hold the key. Two-way jaws are ideal to duplicate standard keys while a four-way jaw is better for duplicating key blades cut by laser. If you are planning to make use of the machine to duplicate keys for automotive use, like remote heads or transponder keys, ensure that there enough space between the jaws.
The best tool will aid you in starting the business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut almost every type of key except for high-security blanks. It is also suitable for mobile use, making it an excellent option for someone who is just starting out and would like to start a key cutting business.
It's costly to invest in a premium machine to cut keys, but it's worth it since it can cut and make the majority of keys with codes, including transponder and smart keys. It's also useful for programming and cloning RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chips keys. If you're planning to program and clone high-security chips you'll require an additional device that can communicate with the vehicle's onboard system and read the unique identification number (VIN). The right equipment can help you save time and money.
Cutting
The key duplicator is a tool that cuts new keys to match the design of the ones that are already in use. The key from the original is placed on one side of the machine and then aligned with the cutting tool. This is used as a template for the new key. The blank key will then be placed on the opposite side of machine. A key guide is utilized to keep the two keys in alignment while they are cut to create a perfect duplicated key.
Different types of keys require special machinery. Keys for cars that are standard can be made with the help of a key cutter. Many modern cars are equipped with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that need to be programmed to begin the vehicle. Transponder key cutters are needed to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the keys and program it for 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 a variety of models of car key cutters available on the market, each with its own distinctive set of features. The model you choose will depend on the kind of key you're cutting and how many copies you'll need at once.
A car key cutter is a useful tool to have in your workshop if you want to master the art of making keys. It is important to know that key cutting machines are available in a variety of high-quality. It is crucial to purchase the machine by a reputable manufacturer and has a good warranty. You should also make sure that the machine is easily repaired or replaced if needed.
There are three types of key cutting machines: Manual, semi-automatic and automated. Manual machines require you to manually move keys between the key tracer and cutter wheel They are simple to use, but they require your full focus. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are good choices. Automated machines are computer-driven and will complete all the work for you. All you have to do is tell them what you want to do using the software that comes with the machine.
Programming
If the key has an electronic transponder, it needs to be programmed to work with that specific car. The procedure differs between models and makes however, it usually involves inserting the working key into the ignition and then leaving it for a couple of minutes. Then the new key has to be inserted and left for a few minutes. This allows the computer of the car to recognize this key and start the car. You may also need to program your keyless entry remote if you have a newer model of vehicle. This requires a sophisticated and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car keys duplication machines in retail stores. They are simple to use and are more accurate than manual key cutting machines. They also eliminate human errors, making it possible to cut a key accurately and quickly. These machines are perfect for those who have lost their keys or damaged them.
You can also find a car key cutter that is specialized in the creation of replacement key fobs for the latest models of cars. These devices employ the same technology as key duplication machines, but they can make up 50 copies at once. Some models even have touchscreens for convenient operation. They can also make smart keys that include a transponder to open doors automatically.
mobile car key cutting can be used to duplicate both metal keys and transponder cards. Some also have a remote head. A regular key has the same cut on both sides. A remote head is the combination of regular keys and a fob with buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern vehicles are equipped with an anti-theft system which prohibits the use of keys other than those provided by the manufacturer on the ignition. This system relies upon an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computers. If the chip is not 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.