Automotive Locksmith Key Programming: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly
Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Most modern-day cars require some form of key programming. Depending on the model and make, the process may be as simple as using a spare key to program the onboard computer or as complicated as EEPROM or OBD2 programming.
Most US and Asian car makers share their programming protocols with auto tool manufacturers in order to create software and hardware for automotive locksmiths to use.
Transponder Chips
Transponder chips are in a variety of newer vehicles to stop theft of cars. These are tiny computer microchips that emit radio waves at a low level. The microchips have an unique serial number that authenticates your key when you connect it to the ignition barrel. If your vehicle doesn't recognize the signal it will stop the engine. This technology has proven to be extremely successful in preventing theft of cars. It has also saved many car owners a lot of money because they don't have to replace their cars.
The transponder system's basic idea is to make it difficult for thieves to open the doors of your vehicle without the correct key. In the past, thieves would use an ordinary screwdriver to force the ignition switch of your vehicle into the "on" mode or even wire it hot to bypass the system. Transponder chips have dramatically decreased the likelihood of theft.
When you insert the transponder key in the ignition the signal is picked up by an antenna that is hidden within the barrel. The antenna is programmed with the frequency of the chip in the key. The onboard computer in the car will then recognize the key as being valid and will allow fuel flow, power the starter or begin the engine.
Depending on the manufacturer certain vehicles can only accept certain types of transponder chip. This is why it's essential to ensure that your locksmith in the automotive industry has the right equipment to program your vehicle's keys and fobs correctly.
A good automotive locksmith will have a multi-vehicle programming device which can be used with different car models and manufacturers. This is a much cheaper alternative than buying specific tools for each model of vehicle. There are also specialised automotive key programmer devices that are only suitable for one particular brand of vehicle, but these are less frequently used. The best automotive locksmiths have the tools to work on any vehicle. Make sure you select a reputable firm that has this kind of equipment.
Key FOBs
The key FOBs are programmable transponder chip devices that allow your vehicle to unlock doors and start the engine using the push of a button ignition. They also have buttons that you can push to activate features such as door locks, trunk release or control of the fuel flap. Some fobs can be controlled using buttons. For instance, a "smart key" that lets you call your car into tight parking spaces, such as the Genesis GV60, Tesla or Genesis GV60.
While some replacement keys can be programmed by you with the assistance of a user's manual, you'll often require an automotive locksmith to get a new one programmed if yours stops functioning. A professional locksmith is more equipped to connect your computer to the vehicle via the OBD port under the steering wheel.
Today, most key fobs include security features that make it difficult for criminals to duplicate or duplicate the signals they transmit. Certain key fobs come with pseudo-random code generators, which generate a new unlock code each time you press the button. This prevents attackers capturing and playing back the unlock signal in order to gain access to your car.
In most cases you can buy an additional key fob at the dealer or other retailer and then have it programmed by a locksmith for your vehicle to fit your particular vehicle. This is because the majority of major US and Asian automakers share their key-fob programming protocols with the third-party firms who create the tools used by auto locksmiths to program their customers' keys.
Certain key fobs from the aftermarket may be advertised as being compatible with all vehicles. However, car key programmed recommend against using them because they are likely to work poorly or even not even work at all. They recommend buying fobs made specifically for your vehicle so that they will work properly and are less susceptible to issues such as interference or incompatibility. This will save money over time, as you avoid costly repairs or replacements for your fobs.
Toolkits for Programming Vehicles of Manufacturers
Automotive technologies have advanced considerably, and today's vehicles require computers to function. One key element of this technology is a transponder chipset that must be programmed into the vehicle by an expert locksmith or dealer/mechanic in order to function. Key fobs come with built-in security features that stop hot-wiring (like in a movie) and the car won't start if it doesn't have the proper key.
Key fobs are a bit more complex than your traditional mechanical keys and that's why you'll usually find them in the hands of a reputable professional auto locksmith. The cost of a key fob will vary based on the vehicle model and the key type however, they generally cost between $85 to $400. This includes labor costs to program the keyfob as well as any replacement parts.
To complicate the process to make the process more complicated, these key fobs for cars make use of a special software to connect to the car's onboard computer. The software blocks access to unauthorised users by only allowing keys programmed for a specific vehicle to function. If you replace your keys, you will need to program the new key fob into the car to allow it to function.
The most common method to accomplish this is using a car key programming tool that is compatible with the model of the vehicle. This tool permits a locksmith to connect to the OBD port on the vehicle and then enter programming mode. The key programming device could be an handheld device that is affordable or sophisticated and capable of doing more than just programming keys (like reading the eeprom files in the ECU).
Although some people might attempt to program their own keys with these tools, this is an activity best left to an experienced auto locksmith. If you're not familiar with the aspects of the various software systems, it's very easy to make a mistake and alter settings that could cause damage to the vehicle. The most important thing to remember is that a skilled professional can help you avoid these issues.
On-Board Programming
If your car is old enough that it has a key, it might still come with a metal key that you can use to open doors and turn off the ignition. Modern vehicles have transponders that must be acknowledged and accepted by the computer system before it can start. This is an additional layer of protection that can stop car thieves from starting a stolen car and then driving off with it. A locksmith who is certified has the tools and software required to program a key that will function in your car's system.
Your locksmith will need to acquire a blank key compatible with your vehicle's make and model. Once the key is received the locksmith will connect the programming scanner to the diagnostic port of your car. This will put the vehicle into a special programming mode that will allow the locksmith to add a new key into the system.
To do this, the key programming scanner will communicate with the car's computer system to transmit an exact code. The computer will be able to recognize the code and add it to the list of keys that are approved. In certain situations, a scanner can also erase keys that were stolen or lost.
Programming EEPROM is another method that can be used to program new car keys. It is more complicated and requires an in-depth understanding of how electronic systems function. It's best to leave it to a professional who has expertise with these systems.
Onboard programming is the most efficient method for locksmiths to program a new key. If everything is done properly, it can take as little as one minute. If the key isn't in good working order or the procedure isn't being followed exactly, the process can take up to half an hour.
There are many key programmer scanners available that work with various vehicle models and brands. Both the Smart Pro and Autel IM608 Pro have become very popular among locksmiths due to their wide selection of vehicle models. However, neither can be programmed for every vehicle in existence. Furthermore, these systems cost a lot. It's best to purchase an instrument that receives regular updates from the manufacturer when new technologies are developed. Your programming machine will quickly become obsolete if you do not do this.