Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Modern cars need some type of key programming. Depending on your vehicle's model and make the procedure could be as simple as using an additional key to program the onboard computer, or as complex as OBD2 programming or EEPROM.
The majority of US and Asian car manufacturers use the same programming protocols as auto tool manufacturers to allow them to develop hardware and software for locksmiths in the automotive industry to use.
Transponder Chips
Most newer cars use what are called transponder chips to prevent car theft. These are tiny computer microchips that emit radio signals at a low level. They have a unique digital serial number that authenticates the key to your car when it is connected to the ignition barrel. If your car doesn't recognise the signal it will stop the engine. This technology has proved to be an enormous success in preventing auto theft. It also saves many car owners a lot of money as they don't have to buy new their cars.
The principle of the transponder system is to make it hard for thieves to open the doors of your vehicle without a valid key. In the past, thieves would simply push your ignition switch to the "on" position with the flat screwdriver, or make use of hot-wires to bypass the system completely. These types of thefts have been drastically decreased with the introduction of the transponder chip.
When you insert the transponder keys in the ignition, the signal is picked up by an antenna hidden around the barrel. The antenna is programmed with the frequency of the chip within the key. The onboard computer in the car will then recognise the key as being valid and allow fuel flow, power the starter or begin the engine.
Depending on the manufacturer some vehicles will only recognise certain types of transponder chip. This is why it is important to ensure that your automotive locksmith has the right equipment to program your car's keys and fobs correctly.
A reputable locksmith for cars should have a multi-vehicle key programming device that works with different models and manufacturers of cars. This is a cheaper alternative to purchasing separate tools for each brand of vehicle. There are also specific key programming devices for automotive that are only suitable for one particular brand of vehicle however, they are less frequently used. The best automotive locksmiths have the tools to work on any vehicle. Make sure you select an established company that has this type of equipment.
Key FOBs
As the name suggests, key FOBs house the transponder chips that can be programmed to allow your car to recognize and unlock the doors or start the engine using push-button ignition. There are also buttons that you can push to activate features such as door locks, trunk release or fuel flap control. Certain fobs can be controlled by pressing buttons. For instance the "smart key" which allows you to summon your car to tight parking spaces, like a Tesla or Genesis GV60.
While some replacement keys can be programmed by you using the help of a user manual but you'll usually require an auto locksmith to get a brand new one programmed if the one you have isn't functioning. This is because an expert locksmith has the equipment that is specialized and access to the tools for programming needed to connect your car's computer through the on-board diagnostics (OBD) port beneath the steering wheel.
The majority of key fobs come with security features to make it more difficult for criminals to duplicate and copy the signals that they transmit. These include pseudo-random sequence generators that generate a fresh unlock code every time you press the button on your key fob. This stops attackers from recording and replaying the unlock signal in order to gain access to your vehicle.
In many cases, you can purchase an additional key fob at the dealer or from another retailer and have it programmable by your locksmith in your car to be compatible with your particular vehicle. This is because the majority of the major US and Asian car makers share their key fob programming protocols with third-party companies who produce the tools locksmiths use to programme keys for their customers.
While some of the aftermarket key fobs are advertised as compatible with all vehicles, most automotive locksmiths do not recommend using them since they're likely to work poorly or not at all. Instead, they recommend purchasing fobs that are specifically made for your vehicle, so that you are certain they'll work properly and are less prone to issues such as interfering or not working. This will save you money over time, as you avoid costly repairs or replacements for your fobs.
Tool for programming the vehicle manufacturers
Automotive technologies have come a long way and today's vehicles need computer technology to function. A transponder chip is an essential component of this technology. It must be programmed by a locksmith, mechanic or dealer to function. Key fobs with embedded security features that will prevent hot-wiring (like in a film) and the car won't start without the proper key.
Key fobs are more complicated than a traditional mechanical key, which is why you'll usually find them in the hands of a reputable professional auto locksmith. The cost of a key fob may vary based on the vehicle model and the key type however, they generally cost between $85 and $400. This includes the labor cost to program the keyfob and any replacement parts.
These car key fobs are more intricate because they use an operating system that communicates with the onboard computer 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 have to program the new key fob to the car in order for it to work.
The most common way to do this is by using an auto key programming tool that is compatible with the model of the vehicle. This tool allows the locksmith to connect to the OBD port (OBD) within the vehicle and then enter a programming mode. The key programming device could be a handheld device that is inexpensive or one that is sophisticated and capable of doing more than just program keys (like reading the eeprom files in the ECU).
Some people might try to program their keys on their own using these tools. However, this is best left to an experienced auto locksmith. It's easy to make mistakes using the software systems if you don't understand the nuances. This can lead to damage. It's crucial to remember that an experienced professional will help you avoid these problems.
On-Board Programming
If your car is of a certain age that 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 a transponder chip that must be recognized by the computer system to allow it to start. This is an additional layer of security that prevents car thieves from starting a stolen car and then driving off with it. A licensed locksmith will have the necessary tools and software to program a new key that is compatible with your car's security system.
Your locksmith will have to obtain a key blank that is that is compatible with the vehicle's make and model. Once your locksmith has the key, he will connect the scanner for programming to the diagnostic port of your vehicle. This will put your car in a special programming mode, which allows locksmiths to automotive key programming connect keys to the system.
To do this, the key programmer scanner will communicate with the car's computer and send a specific code. The computer will recognize the code and add it to the list of approved keys. In certain instances the scanner may also be able to delete keys that are stolen or lost from the system.
You can also program new keys by using EEPROM. It is more complex and requires a deep understanding of electronic systems. It is best to delegate it to a professional who has experience with these systems.
Onboard programming is the fastest method for locksmiths to program an entirely new key. It can take less than a minute when everything is done correctly. However, if the key isn't in right condition or the procedure is not followed exactly, it can take up to a half hour.
There are numerous key programmer scanners on the market that can be used with different vehicle models and makes. The Smart Pro and the Autel IM608 Pro are both very popular amongst locksmiths because they cover a wide range of automobile models. However, no system can be programmed for every vehicle on the market. They are also expensive. It's best to purchase a programmer which will receive regular updates from the manufacturer whenever new technologies are released. Your programming machine will quickly become obsolete if you don't take this step.