Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Modern cars need some kind of key programming. Depending on car key programming and model, the process can be as simple as onboard programming using a spare working key or as complex as OBD2 or EEPROM programming.
The majority of US and Asian automakers have a programming protocol that they share with auto tool makers, so they can create hardware or software for automotive locksmiths.
Transponder Chips
Transponder chips are in many newer cars to stop theft of cars. These are tiny computer microchips that emit radio signals 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 doesn't recognize the signal, it will shut down the engine. This technology has proven to be an incredible success in preventing auto theft. This technology has also helped car owners save a good deal of money as they do not have to replace their vehicles.
The principle of the transponder system is to make it difficult for thieves to start your vehicle without a valid key. In the past, car thieves would simply push your ignition switch to the "on" position using a flat screwdriver or even use hot wires to disable the system entirely. Transponder chips have dramatically reduced these types of thefts.
When you insert the transponder key in the ignition, the signal is received by an antenna hidden around the barrel. This antenna is programmed with the frequency of the chip in the key. The onboard computer in the car will recognize the key as being valid and will allow fuel flow and power the starter to start the engine.
Based on the manufacturer, certain vehicles can only recognize the specific type of transponder chip. This is why it's important to ensure that your automotive locksmith has the appropriate equipment to program your vehicle's keys and fobs properly.
A good automotive locksmith will utilize a multi-vehicle programmable tool that can be used on a variety of different car models and manufacturers. This is a less expensive alternative to purchasing specific tools for each type of vehicle. There are also specially-designed key programming tools for automobiles that can only be used on specific brands of vehicles, but these are less common. The top automotive locksmiths have the appropriate equipment to tackle any type of vehicle, so ensure you find a reputable company with these kinds of tools.
Key FOBs
The key FOBs are programmable transponder chip devices that allow your vehicle to unlock doors and start the engine with a push button ignition. You can also press buttons to activate features like trunk releases, door locks or control of the fuel flap. Some fobs can be controlled using buttons. For example, a "smart key" that lets you call your car to parking spaces, such as the Genesis GV60, Tesla or Genesis GV60.
You can program some replacement key fobs yourself using the assistance of the user guide, however you will need to call an automotive locksmith if the one you have isn't working. A professional locksmith is more equipped to connect the computer of your vehicle to the OBD port on the steering wheel.
Most key fobs today have security features that make it difficult for criminals to duplicate or duplicate the signals they transmit. They include pseudo-random sequence generators that generate an entirely new unlock code every time you press the button on your key fob. This stops attackers from recording and playing back the unlock signal to gain access to your vehicle.
In many cases you can purchase an additional key fob at the dealership or another retailer and have it programmed by your automotive locksmith to be compatible with your specific vehicle. This is because the majority of major US and Asian automakers use the same key-fob programming protocol with third-party companies that create the tools used by locksmiths for programming their customer's keys.
Certain aftermarket key fobs can be advertised as being compatible with vehicles of all kinds. However, professional locksmiths recommend against using them because they're likely to function poorly or not at all. Instead, they recommend purchasing fobs that are specifically made for your vehicle, so that you can be certain they'll function correctly and are less susceptible to issues such as interfering or incompatibility. This will save money over time, as you avoid costly repairs or replacements of your fobs.
Tool for programming the vehicle manufacturers
Automotive technology has come a long way and modern vehicles require computers to function. One of the most important components of this technology is a transponder chipset that needs to be programmed to the vehicle by an auto locksmith or dealer/mechanic order to work. Key fobs with embedded security features that will prevent hot-wiring (like in a movie) and the car will not start if you don't have the proper key.
These key fobs are a little more complex than the mechanical keys, which is why you'll typically find them in the hands of a reputable, professional auto locksmith. The cost of a car key fob varies dependent on the type and model of key, but it is typically between $85 to $400. This includes the cost of labor to program the key fob and the cost of any needed replacement parts.
Car key fobs are more intricate because they use software that interacts with the computer onboard of the car. The software blocks unauthorized access by only allowing the key to operate only if it's programmed to the car in question. If you change your keys, you'll need to program the new key fob to the car in order for it to function.
This is done by using a programing tool for keys for cars that are compatible with the vehicle's brand. This tool lets the locksmith connect to the OBD port (OBD) in the vehicle and then enter the programming mode. The key programming tool can be a simple handheld device or a more expensive one that can perform many things that go beyond key programming (like reading and cloning the Eeprom files within the ECU).
Some people may attempt to program their keys by themselves using these tools. However this should be left to an experienced auto locksmith. If you're not familiar with the aspects of the various software systems, it's very easy to accidentally change 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 older than that it has a key, it might still come with a metal key that you can use to unlock doors and turn off the ignition. Modern cars are equipped with transponder chips that need to be recognized by the computer system to allow it to start. This is an additional layer of security that stops car thieves from starting a stolen car and driving away with it. A locksmith who is certified has the tools and software to program a new key that is compatible with your car's security system.
Your locksmith will need to purchase an uncut key that is compatible with your vehicle's model and make. Once the key is in hand, your locksmith will link the scanner for programming to your car's diagnostic port. This will place the car into the mode of programming that will allow the locksmith to add a new key to the system.
To accomplish this, the key programming scanner will communicate with the car's computer to send a specific code. The computer will recognize the code and add it to the list of keys approved by. In some instances the scanner may also be able to delete lost or stolen keys from the system.
You can also program new keys using the EEPROM. It is more complicated and requires a deep understanding of electronic systems. It's best to leave it to a professional who has experience with these systems.
Locksmiths can program a key quickly by using onboard programming. reprogram car key takes as little as an hour if everything is done correctly. If the key is not in the correct condition or the procedure isn't being followed exactly, the process can take up to half an hour.
There are a variety of key programmer scanners on the market that can be used with different vehicle models and brands. The Smart Pro and the Autel IM608 Pro are both very popular with locksmiths since they cover a wide range of vehicles. The system cannot program every vehicle. Furthermore, these systems cost a lot. It's a good idea to purchase a computer that receives regular updates when the manufacturer introduces new technologies. Your programming machine will quickly become outdated if you don't do this.