Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Modern cars need some kind of key programming. Based on the car's make and model, the procedure could be as simple as onboard programming with a spare working key or as complicated as EEPROM or OBD2 programming.
Most US and Asian car manufacturers have programming protocols that they share with auto tool makers to allow them to develop tools and hardware for locksmiths in the automotive industry to use.
Transponder Chips
Most modern cars are equipped with transponder chips to prevent car theft. These are small computer microchips that emit radio signals at a low level. They have a unique serial number that authenticates the key to your vehicle when it is connected to the ignition barrel. If your vehicle isn't able to recognize the signal it will shut down. This technology has proven to be a huge success in preventing car theft. It has also saved many car owners a lot of money as they don't have to buy new their vehicles.
The basic idea behind the transponder system is to make it difficult for thieves to open the doors of your vehicle without a valid key. In the past, thieves would simply force your ignition switch to the "on" position using the flat screwdriver, or make use of hot-wires to bypass the system entirely. These kinds of thefts have been dramatically decreased with the introduction of the transponder chip.
When you insert the transponder key into the ignition the signal is picked up by an antenna that is hidden within the barrel. The antenna is programmed to match the frequency of the chip inside the key. The car's onboard computer will then recognise that the key is genuine and allow fuel to flow, power the starter or begin it.
Depending on the manufacturer some vehicles will only recognise the specific type of transponder chip. This is why it's important to ensure that your locksmith for automotive has the appropriate equipment to program your car's keys and fobs correctly.
A reputable locksmith for automotive needs to have an instrument for programming keys for multiple vehicles that works with different car manufacturers and models. This is a far cheaper option than buying specific tools for each model of vehicle. They are not as common however, there are specialist automotive key programming tools that can only work on a specific brand of vehicle. The best automotive locksmiths will have the appropriate equipment to tackle any type of vehicle, so be sure 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 begin the engine with a push button ignition. There are also buttons that you can press to trigger features like door locks, trunk release or fuel flap control. Some fobs also have additional functions that can be controlled with the button presses, such as a "smart" key fob that lets you summon your car into parking spaces that are difficult to access similar to the Genesis GV60 or Tesla. Tesla or Genesis GV60.
You can program some replacement key fobs yourself using the help of an instruction manual, however you'll need to contact an automotive locksmith if yours isn't working. A professional locksmith is better equipped to connect your computer to the car via the OBD port located under the steering wheel.
The majority of key fobs come with security features that make it difficult for attackers to clone and replicate the signals they transmit. Certain key fobs feature pseudo-random code generators which generate a new unlock code each time you press the button. This stops attackers from recording and replaying the unlock signal in order to gain access to your car.
In many cases, you can purchase a replacement key fob from the dealership or another retailer and have it programmed by your locksmith in your car to work with your specific vehicle. This is because most of the major US and how to program a car key Asian car makers share their key fob programming protocols with third-party companies who produce the tools locksmiths for auto use to program their customers' keys.
Certain aftermarket key fobs can be marketed as compatible with any vehicle. However, automotive locksmiths advise against using them since they are likely to work poorly or not work even work at all. They recommend buying fobs made specifically for your vehicle so that they function properly and are less prone to issues such as interference or incompatibility. This will save money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs or replacements for your fobs.
Toolkits for Programming Vehicles of Manufacturers
The automotive industry has come a long way, and today's vehicles require computers to function. One key element of this technology is a transponder chip that requires to be programmed to the vehicle by an auto locksmith or dealer/mechanic order to work. Key fobs with embedded security features that stop hot-wiring (like in a movie) and the car will not start if you don't have the correct key.
These key fobs are a little more complex than the traditional mechanical keys, which is why you'll usually find them in the hands of a skilled, professional auto locksmith. The cost of the car key fob is according to the type and model of key, but it is typically between $85 and $400. This includes the labor cost to program the keyfob and any replacement parts.
To make the process more complicated the car key fobs utilize a specific software system to communicate with the car's onboard computer. The software blocks access to unauthorized users by only allowing the key to function only if it's programmed to that specific car. If you change your keys, you will need to program the new key fob to the car for it to work.
The most common way to accomplish this is using a car key programming tool that is compatible with the model of the vehicle. This tool lets the locksmith connect to the OBD port (OBD) within the vehicle and then enter the programming mode. The key programming tool could be a handheld device that is inexpensive device or a high-end one that can do many things that go beyond key programming (like reading and cloning EEEPROM files in the ECU).
Some people might try to program their keys by themselves using these tools. However it's best to leave this task to an expert auto locksmith. If you're not aware of all the aspects of the various software systems, it's very easy to accidentally change settings that could damage the vehicle. The most important thing to keep in mind is that a skilled professional can help you avoid these problems.
On-Board Programming
If your vehicle is of a certain age to be considered old-fashioned, you'll have a traditional key made of metal to use to unlock the doors and turn off the ignition. However, modern vehicles come with transponder chips that need to be recognized by the computer system to allow it to start. This adds another security measure to prevent thieves from stealing the car and then driving off with a stolen car. A locksmith who is certified has the tools and software to create a key that works with the security system in your car.
The locksmith will need to get a blank key that is compatible with the model and make of your vehicle. Once the key is in hand the locksmith will connect the programming scanner to your car's diagnostic port. This will put your car into an exclusive programming mode that allows the locksmith to add a new key to the system.
The key scanner that is programmed communicates with the computer of the vehicle to send an electronic code. The computer will be able to recognize the code and add it to the list of approved keys. In some cases the scanner will also erase keys that were stolen or lost.
You can also program new keys by using the EEPROM. It is more complex and requires a deep understanding of how electronic systems operate. This is why it should be left to a professional that has a lot of experience working on these types of systems.
Locksmiths can program a key quickly by using onboard programming. It takes as little as a minute when everything is completed correctly. If the key isn't placed in the proper situation or the procedure is not strictly followed, it could take as long as a half hour.
There are numerous key programmer scanners available that support different car models and makes. The Smart Pro and the Autel IM608 Pro are both very popular with locksmiths since they can be used with a variety of vehicle models. There is no system that can program every vehicle. Furthermore, these systems cost a lot. It is recommended to purchase an instrument that receives regular updates from the manufacturer as new technologies are developed. Your machine for programming will quickly become obsolete if you don't take this step.