Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Most modern-day cars require some form of key programming. Depending on the car's maker and model, the procedure can be as simple as onboard programming using a spare key that works or as complex as EEPROM or OBD2 programming.
Most US and Asian automakers share their programming protocol with auto tool makers, which means they can design software or hardware for automotive locksmiths.
Transponder Chips
Transponder chips are in a lot of modern cars to prevent car theft. These are tiny computer microchips that emit radio signals at a low level. They are equipped with a unique digital serial number that authenticates the key to your car when it is plugged into the ignition barrel. If your vehicle doesn't recognize the signal it will shut down the engine. This technology has proven to be an enormous success in preventing auto theft. It has also saved many car owners a significant amount of money as they don't have to replace their vehicles.
The principle behind the transponder system is to make it difficult for thieves to get into your car without the proper key. In the past, thieves would force the ignition switch of your car into the "on" position with an ordinary screwdriver or use hot wires to disable the system entirely. These kinds of thefts have been drastically decreased with the introduction of the transponder chip.
When you insert a transponder key into the ignition, it transmits an electrical signal that is picked up by a hidden antenna around the barrel of the ignition. see this is programmed to read the specific frequency of the chip inside the key. The onboard computer of the car will recognize the key as valid and will allow fuel flow, power the starter or begin the engine.
Certain vehicles only recognize a certain type of transponder chips depending on the manufacturer. Therefore, it is essential that your automotive locksmith is equipped with the appropriate equipment to program your keys and remotes for your vehicle.
A good automotive locksmith should have a multi-vehicle key programming device that can work on many different car manufacturers and models. This is a far cheaper option than buying specific tools for each model of vehicle. These are less common, but there are specialised automotive key programming tools that can only work on a specific model of vehicle. The best locksmiths for automotive have the tools to work on any vehicle. Be sure to choose a reliable company that is equipped with this type of equipment.
Key FOBs
The name implies that key FOBs house the transponder chips that can be programmed to enable your vehicle to recognize and open the doors or start the engine using a push button ignition. You can also press buttons to activate features like trunk releases, door locks or fuel flap controls. Some fobs can be controlled with the press of buttons. For instance the "smart key" that lets you call your car into tight parking spaces, such as the Genesis GV60 or a Tesla or Genesis GV60.
While certain replacement key fobs can be programmed by you using the aid of a user's guide but you'll usually require an auto locksmith to get a new one programmed if the one you have isn't functioning. A professional locksmith is more equipped to connect the computer of your vehicle to the OBD port located under the steering wheel.
Today, most key fobs come with security features that make it difficult for criminals to clone or replicate the signals they transmit. Certain key fobs feature pseudo-random code generators that generate a new unlock code every time you press the button. This prevents attackers from capturing and replaying the unlock signal to gain access to your vehicle.
In most instances you can purchase an alternative key fob from the dealer or other retailer and have it programmed by a locksmith for your vehicle to fit your specific vehicle. This is due to the fact that most of the major US and Asian car manufacturers share their key fob programming protocols with third-party companies who make the tools that locksmiths employ to programme keys for their customers.
Certain key fobs from the aftermarket may be marketed as compatible with any vehicle. However, locksmiths for automotive advise against using them since they're likely to function poorly or not work even work at all. They suggest buying fobs designed specifically for your vehicle so that they function properly and are less prone to issues such as interference or incompatibility. This will save you money over the long term by avoiding expensive repairs or replacing your fobs.
Vehicle Manufacturers' Programming Tool
The automotive industry has made huge advances in the last couple of decades. Today's vehicles are computer-driven. One key element of this technology is a transponder chip that must be programmed into the vehicle by an expert locksmith or dealer/mechanic in order to work. These key fobs have built-in security features that stop hot-wiring (like in a film) and the car won't start without the right key.
Key fobs are a little more complex than a traditional mechanical key. This is why they are usually placed in the hands of experienced, professional auto locksmiths. The cost of a key fob may differ based on the vehicle model and the type of key, but they typically run between $85 and $400. This includes the cost of labor to program the key fob and the costs for any required replacement parts.
To make the process more difficult the car key fobs make use of a special software to work with the car's onboard computer. The software prevents unauthorised access by only permitting keys that have been programmed specifically for a particular car to work. If you change your keys, you'll have to program the new key fob to the car in order for it to function.
This is accomplished using a programming 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 high-end one that is capable of performing many things beyond key programming (like reading and cloning the eeprom files in the ECU).
Some people may attempt to program their keys by themselves using these tools. However, this is best left to a professional auto locksmith. It is easy to make mistakes with the software systems if you don't understand the nuances. This could lead to damage. It's important to keep in mind that an experienced professional will help you avoid these issues.
On-Board programming
If your car isn't as old, it may still come with a key made of metal that can be used to open doors and turn the ignition. Modern cars come with transponders that need to be recognized and accepted by the computer system before it can start. This adds another layer of security to keep thieves from starting and then driving off with a stolen vehicle. A locksmith who is certified will have the tools and software necessary to create a key that will function in your car's system.
Your locksmith will first need to acquire an uncut key that is that is compatible with your car's model and make. Once the key is received the locksmith will connect the scanner for programming to your car's diagnostic port. This will place the car into a special programing mode, which will allow locksmiths to add a key to the system.
To accomplish this, the key programmer scanner will communicate with the car's computer to send a particular code. The computer will detect this code and include 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.
The EEPROM programming method is a different one that can be used to program new car keys. It is more complex and requires a deep understanding of how electronic systems work. It is best to delegate it to a professional who has expertise with these systems.
Onboard programming is the quickest 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 precisely, the procedure could take up to half an hour.
There are a variety of key programmer scanners available that support different vehicle models and makes. reprogram car key and Autel IM608 Pro are very popular with locksmiths due their wide selection of vehicle models. The system cannot program every vehicle. These machines are also quite expensive. It is recommended to purchase a programmer which will receive regular updates from the manufacturer when new technologies are released. Your computer's programming software will soon become outdated if you don't take this step.