Automotive Locksmith Key Programming 10 Things I'd Like To Have Learned Earlier
Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Modern cars need some type of key programming. Depending on the vehicle's make and model, the procedure can be as easy as programming onboard using an extra working key or as complicated as EEPROM or OBD2 programming.
Most US and Asian automobile manufacturers use the same programming protocols as auto tool manufacturers in order to create tools and hardware for locksmiths working in automotive vehicles.
Transponder Chips
The majority of newer cars have transponder chips to prevent car theft. These are tiny computer microchips that emit radio waves at a low level. They have a unique serial number that authenticates the key to your car when it is connected to the ignition barrel. If your vehicle isn't able to recognize the signal and the engine is shut down. This technology has been extremely successful in preventing car theft. This technology has also helped car owners save a huge amount of money by not having to replace their vehicles.
The fundamental idea behind the transponder system is to make it difficult for thieves to start your car without a key. In the past, car thieves would use the flat screwdriver to push the ignition switch of your car into "on" mode or even hot-wire it in order to evade the system. These kinds of thefts have drastically reduced thanks to the introduction of the transponder chip.
When you place the transponder key in the ignition, the signal is received by an antenna that is hidden within the barrel. The antenna is programmed with the frequency of the chip in the key. The car's onboard computer will recognize that the key is valid and allow fuel to flow, power up the starter or start it.
Depending on the manufacturer, some vehicles will only recognise certain types of transponder chip. This is why it's important to ensure that your locksmith in the automotive industry has the right equipment to program your car's keys and fobs properly.
A reputable locksmith for automotive will utilize a multi-vehicle programmable device which can be used on a variety of different car models and manufacturers. This is a cheaper alternative to purchasing individual tools for every brand of vehicle. These are less common, but there are specialised automotive key programmers that can only be used on a specific brand of vehicle. The best automotive locksmiths will have the appropriate tools to work on any type of vehicle, so be sure you find a reputable company with these kinds of tools.
Key FOBs
As the name suggests, key FOBs are home to the programmable transponder chips that allow your car to recognize and unlock the doors or start the engine with a push-button ignition. It is also possible to press buttons to activate features such as trunk releases, door locks or controls for the fuel flap. Certain fobs can be controlled using buttons. For example an "smart key" that allows you summon your car into tight parking spaces, like a Tesla or Genesis GV60.
You can program some replacement key fobs yourself with the help of a user guide, but you'll need to call an automotive locksmith in the event that yours isn't working. This is because a professional has the specialized equipment and access to the tools for programming needed to connect your car's computer to the OBD (OBD) port that is located under the steering wheel.
The majority of key fobs today come with security features that make it difficult for attackers to duplicate or copy the signals they transmit. These include pseudo-random sequence generators that generate a fresh unlock code each time you press the button on the key fob. This prevents attackers from capturing and replaying the unlock signal to gain access to your vehicle.
In most cases you can purchase an additional key fob at the dealership or another retailer and then have it programmed by a locksmith for your vehicle to work with your particular vehicle. This is because the majority of major US and Asian auto manufacturers have key-fob programming protocols with third-party companies that produce the tools used by locksmiths for programming their customers' keys.
Certain key fobs from the aftermarket may be advertised as being compatible with vehicles of all kinds. However, locksmiths for automotive strongly discourage using them as they're likely to function poorly or not at all. Instead, they suggest purchasing fobs designed specifically for your specific vehicle so that you are certain they'll function properly and be less susceptible to issues such as interference or incompatibility. This will save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs or replacements for your fobs.
Tool for programming the vehicle manufacturers
The automotive industry has made huge advances in the last couple of decades. Today's vehicles are computer-driven. One of the key components of this technology is a transponder chip which needs to be programmed to the vehicle by an expert locksmith or dealer/mechanic in order to function. Key fobs come with built-in security features that prevent hot-wiring (like in a movie) and the car will not start if you don't have the correct key.
These key fobs can be slightly more complicated than a standard mechanical key. This is why they're usually handled by experienced professional auto locksmiths. The cost of a key fob can differ based on the vehicle model and the key type, but they typically run between $85 to $400. This includes the labor required to program the key fob as well as the costs for any required replacement parts.
To make the process more complicated, these car key fobs make use of a special software to connect to the car's onboard computer. The software blocks access by unauthorised persons by only allowing keys that have been programmed for a specific vehicle to work. If you change your keys, you'll have to program the new key fob to the car for it to function.
This is accomplished using a programming tool for car keys that is compatible with your vehicle's brand. This tool allows locksmiths to connect to the OBD port on the vehicle and then enter programming mode. The key programming tool could be a handheld device that is inexpensive device or a fancy one that can do a wide range of things that go beyond key programming (like reading and cloning the Eeprom files within the ECU).
Some people might attempt to program their keys themselves using these tools. However this should be left to a professional auto locksmith. It's easy to make mistakes using the software systems if you don't know the nuances. This could lead to damage. The most important thing to remember is that a skilled professional can assist you in avoiding these issues.
On-Board programming
If your vehicle is old enough to be considered old-fashioned, you'll have a traditional metal key that you can use to open the doors and turn off the ignition. Modern cars have transponders that must be acknowledged and accepted by the computer system before it can start. This adds an extra layer of protection that can stop car thieves from starting a car stolen and driving off with the car. A locksmith who is certified will have the right tools and software to create a new key that will work with your car's security system.
First, your locksmith will require an uncut key that is compatible with the model and make of your car. Once your locksmith has the key, he will connect the programming scanner to the diagnostic port of your vehicle. This will place the car in a special programming mode, which allows locksmiths to add a key to the system.
The key programmer scanner communicates with the computer in the vehicle to send an electronic code. The computer will detect this code and add it into the list of keys that are authorized. In certain instances the scanner may also be able to erase keys that have been stolen or lost from the system.
You can also program new keys using the EEPROM. It is more complex and requires a deep understanding of how electronic systems work. This is why it should be left to a professional that has extensive experience working on these types of systems.
Locksmiths can program keys quickly using onboard programming. It takes as little as a minute when everything is done correctly. However, if the key isn't placed in the right situation or the procedure isn't adhered to, it could take up to an hour.
There are many key programmer scanners available that can be used with different vehicle models and brands. The Smart Pro and the Autel IM608 Pro are both extremely popular with locksmiths since they cover a wide range of vehicle models. However, neither will be programming car key to program every vehicle on the market. They are also expensive. It's a good idea purchase a programer that receives regular updates as the manufacturer releases new technologies. In the event that your machine is not updated, it will be obsolete in a short time.