What Is Car Key Cutting? Modern car keys aren't cut at a self-service kiosk located in the mall. They require specialized sidewinder equipment, and are designed to match the specific locks cylinders that you have in your vehicle. Understanding the difference between car key duplication and cutting your car keys will save you money, time and stress in the future. Keys The cutting process of the car key is to create a new vehicle key. This is typically done by a professional because it requires specialized machinery to trace the key's unique profile and ensure that it fits into all of the locks correctly. Additionally, a professional can often offer a warranty on the work they do. In the past keys for cars were simple however, modern technology has made them more complex. 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 difficult for thieves to replicate or tamper with the key, and they can also aid the owner in keeping an eye on who has used their vehicle. Traditional keys for cars are rectangular and flat form. They are thinner than sidewinder keys and they feature the same cuts on both sides of the blade. These keys can fit in any lock because they have the exact 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 goal was to prevent the theft of vehicles and the technology has been successfully deployed in various models. Laser cut keys are thicker than conventional keys, and they have more carved out grooves in their shanks. They are a little more expensive to produce, but they are also 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 harder to duplicate and is also more difficult. It is essential that the locksmith has a manual machine of high quality like the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines also can create keys from existing ones, i.e. they can create new keys from an existing key that has been cut. You can also find out more about Cutting keys for cars is more than simply a simple shape of metal. It's a skill that guarantees security and function. Properly-cut keys ensure that they'll fit in the lock, and will not cause damage to it or the ignition. A professional will ensure the key is cut correctly, whether it's a mechanical or transponder or smart key. To make a duplicate key the key is placed on the side of the machine and then aligned using a specific cutting tool. This is used as an example. Then the blank key is positioned on the other side of the machine. There, it is aligned using an instrument guide to ensure both keys are in line during the duplication process. Both keys are cut simultaneously, resulting in duplicates that are identical to the original. Look for key cutters that have multiple jaws that can hold the key. A two-way cutter is the best for duplicating standard key blades, while a 4-way one is better for laser cut keys. Also, if you'll be making keys for cars, such as a transponder or remote head keys ensure that there's enough space between jaws for these styles of keys. The right tool will aid you in starting your business. A Defu 2A duplicator is an affordable tool that can cut almost every type of key aside from high-security blanks. It is also suitable for mobile use and is a good option for a novice who wants to start a car key cutting business. A high-end key cutting machine is expensive, but it's worth the cost because it will allow you to design and cut keys using code, including smart and transponder keys. It's also great for programming and cloning RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other key chips. 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 appropriate equipment for your key cutting business will save you time and cash in the end. Cutting The key duplicator is a device which cuts keys to match the shape of the ones that are already in use. 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. A key guide is utilized to keep the two keys in line as they are cut to create a perfect duplicated new key. Other kinds of keys require special equipment. Standard car keys can be made using the help of a key cutter. Most newer vehicles are equipped with smart key systems or proximity key fobs that need to be programmed to start the engine. To cut these keys, you need transponder key cutters that is capable of tracing the contours of the key and programming 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 a myriad of models of car key-cutters available on the market. Each has distinct features. The model you pick depends on what kind of key you're cutting as well as how many copies you need at a time. A car key cutter is a great tool to have in your workshop if you want to learn how to make keys. You should be aware, however, that key cutting equipment comes in a variety of quality. It is important to purchase an item from a reputable manufacturer that has a solid guarantee. It is also important to ensure that the machine you buy can be repaired or replaced if necessary. There are three primary types of key cutting machines The three main types are manual, semi-automatic and automatic. Manual Machines require users to manually move keys across the cutter wheel and tracer They are simple to use, but they require your full concentration. The JMA Nomad or Silca Flash are good choices. Automatic Machines are computer driven and can do everything for you, all you need to do is to instruct them on what to do using the software program that comes with the machine. Programming If the key has a transponder, it must be programmed to work with the specific car. The process varies between models and makes and models, but generally involves inserting the key that is currently in use into ignition and leaving it for a couple of minutes. Then insert the new key and leave it for a few minutes. This process allows the car to recognize the new key and allows it to start the car. If you own a newer model vehicle, you may also have to program the keyless entry remote. This requires a complicated and expensive device. Customers are requesting more car key duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are simpler to use and are more precise than manual machines for cutting keys. They also eliminate human mistakes, allowing you to cut a key accurately and quickly. These machines are perfect for those who have lost their keys or have damaged them. You can also find a car key cutter that is specialized in creating replacement key fobs for the most recent models of cars. These devices employ the same technology as the car key duplication machines but can create up 50 copies at a time. Some models feature touchscreens for better operation. They can also help you create smart keys, which 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 have a remote. A normal key has the exact same cut on both sides. A remote head is a combination of an ordinary key and a fob that includes buttons for locking and unlocking the car. Modern vehicles are fitted with an anti-theft system that prevents keys other than those from the manufacturer from being used in the ignition. This system relies upon an electronic chip to communicate with the computer in the car. The car won't start if the chip is not programmed correctly. In a matter of minutes, a certified auto locksmith will programme a new key to your vehicle.