What Is Car Key Cutting?
Modern car keys are not the type you can take to a self-service kiosk at the mall to get cut. They require specialized sidewinder key cutting equipment, and are designed to work with the specific lock cylinder of your vehicle.
Understanding the difference between duplicate car keys and cutting your car keys will save you time, money and stress in the near future.
Keys
Car key cutting is the process of making the key for a car. This is usually performed by a professional, since it requires specialized equipment to trace the key's unique profile and ensure that it fits into all locks in the right way. A professional will often provide a warranty on the work they do.
In the past keys for cars were simple, but modern technologies have made them more complicated. Smart keys are utilized in many vehicles to prevent theft. They contain encryption and other security measures. These features are designed to make it more difficult for thieves to replicate or tamper with the key and also aid the owner in keeping the track of who has used their vehicle.

The traditional car keys are flat and have a rectangular shape. They are thinner than the sidewinder keys and feature the same cut on both sides. They can fit into any lock as they have the exact same cut on both sides. They can be duplicated with regular key machines found in hardware stores.
Laser cut keys were introduced in the 1990s, and were primarily used by luxury car brands. The goal was to prevent the theft of vehicles, and the technology has been successfully deployed in a variety of models. Laser cut keys have a thicker shank than traditional keys and more grooves cut into the keys. They are slightly more expensive to manufacture however they are more secure.
To cut a laser-cut keys 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 type of key is more difficult to duplicate, and takes more time to cut than a standard key. It is crucial that the locksmith has a manual machine of high quality, such as the Silca Futura Auto or Futura Pro or the Framon 2 machine. These machines can also create keys, which means they can create a new key from one that was cut.
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Car key cutting is more than cutting a piece of metal it's an art form that guarantees security, efficiency, and longevity. When keys are cut correctly, they ensure that they 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 aligned with a special cutting tool. This serves as an example. A blank key is then placed on the opposite side of the machine and aligned to the key guide. This keeps both keys in line during duplication. Both keys are cut at the same time and produce duplicates that are identical to the original.
When selecting a key cutter, look for one that offers multiple jaws with different options 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. Also, if you'll be making keys for cars, such as a remote head or transponder key ensure that there is enough space between the jaws for these kinds of keys.
The appropriate tool can aid you in starting the business. A Defu 2A key duplicator, for instance, is affordable and can cut almost every kind of key except for high security blanks. This model is also suited for use on the move which makes it a great option for someone who is just starting out and wants to start a key cutting business.
A high-end key cutting machine is expensive, but it's well worth the cost since it will allow you to design and cut the majority of keys with code including transponder and smart keys. It's also useful for programming and cloning RW4, MBOX, ZBULL and other chips keys. If you want to program and clone high-security chips, you'll need an additional device that is able to 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 device that cuts keys to match the design of existing ones. The original key is put on one side of the machine, and then lined up with the cutting tool to serve as a template for the new key. The blank key is then be placed on the opposite side of machine. A key guide is used to keep the two keys in alignment during the cutting process and shaped, creating a flawlessly duplicated key.
Other types of keys need special equipment. mobile key cutting can be made with the use of a key cutter. Many modern cars are equipped with proximity key fobs or smart key systems that have to be programmed to allow the start of the vehicle. Transponder key cutters are needed to cut these keys. They can trace the contours of the key and program it for the vehicle.
A car key cutter should be able to not only cut different types of keys, but also program them to work with the ignition system. There are many models of car key-cutters on the market. Each comes with distinct features. The model you pick depends on the kind of key you're cutting and the number of keys you need to copy at one time.
A car key cutter is a useful tool to have in your workshop if you are looking to learn how to make keys. However, you must be aware that the quality of key cutting machines can vary significantly. It is important to purchase an item from a reputable manufacturer that offers a long-term warranty. It is also important to ensure that the machine you purchase is able to be easily repaired or replaced if needed.
There are three types of key cutting machines available Manual Semi-Automatic, and Automatic. Manual Machines require you to manually move the keys between the cutter wheel and tracer They are simple to use however 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 can do everything for you. All you have to do is specify what you want them to do with the software program that is included with the machine.
Programming
If the key is equipped with a transponder it must be programmed to work with that specific car. The process differs between different models and makes, but it usually involves inserting a working key into the ignition and then leaving it for a short period of time. Then insert the new key and leave it in place for a couple of minutes. This allows the computer in the car to recognize the key and begin the car. You may also need to program your keyless entry remote if you are using a more recent model of vehicle. This requires a more complex and expensive device.
Customers are requesting more car key duplication machines in retail stores. These machines are easy to use and more precise than manual key cutting machines. These machines eliminate human error and allow for accurate and quick key cutting. These machines are perfect for people who are lost or have damaged keys.
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 utilize the same technology as the car key duplication machines, but can make up 50 copies at a time. Some models have a touchscreen for easier operation. They can also create smart keys that include an electronic transponder that opens doors automatically.
A car key cutter can duplicate both regular metal keys and transponder keys. Some keys have remotes. A standard key is a key that has the same exact cuts on both sides. A remote head is the combination of regular keys and a fob with buttons for locking and unlocking the car.
Modern cars come with an anti-theft system that prevents the use of keys that are not those provided by the manufacturer inside the ignition. This system is based on an electronic chip that communicates with the car's computers. If the chip isn't properly programmed, the car will not start. In just a few minutes, a qualified auto locksmith will programme a new key to your car.