20 Myths About Automotive Locksmith Key Programming: Debunked

Automotive Locksmith Key Programming Modern automobiles require some kind of key programming. Depending on your vehicle's model and manufacturer the procedure could be as simple as using an extra key to program the onboard computer or as complicated as EEPROM or OBD2 programming. Most US and Asian auto manufacturers have a programming protocol that they share with auto tool manufacturers, so they can design software or hardware for automotive locksmiths. Transponder Chips Most newer cars use transponder chips to prevent car theft. These are tiny computer microchips that emit low-level radio waves. They are equipped with a unique digital serial number that authenticates the key to your vehicle when it is connected to the ignition barrel. If your vehicle does not recognize the signal and the engine is shut down. This technology has been an enormous success in preventing car theft. This technology has also saved car owners a great deal of money since they don't have to purchase new cars. The fundamental idea behind the transponder system is to make it impossible for thieves to get into your car without the proper key. In the past car thieves would use an ordinary screwdriver to force the ignition switch in your car into “on” mode or even wire it hot to bypass the system. These kinds of thefts have drastically decreased with the introduction of the transponder chip. When car key programing insert the transponder keys in the ignition the signal is picked up by an antenna that is concealed around the barrel. The antenna is programmed to detect the specific frequency of the chip inside the key. The car's onboard computer will detect that the key is legitimate and allow the fuel to flow, then power up the starter or start it. Some vehicles only recognize a specific type of transponder chip, depending on the manufacturer. This is why it is crucial to make sure that your locksmith in the automotive industry has the right equipment to program your car's keys and fobs properly. A good automotive locksmith will utilize a multi-vehicle programmable device that can be used on a variety of different automobile models and manufacturers. This is a much cheaper alternative than buying separate tools for each type of vehicle. There are also specific key programming tools for automobiles that are only suitable for specific models of vehicles, but these are less common. The top automotive locksmiths are equipped to work on any vehicle. Make sure you choose an established company that has this type of equipment. Key FOBs Key FOBs are programmable transponder chip devices that permit your vehicle to unlock doors and start the engine using a push button ignition. There are also 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 an “smart key” which allows you to summon your car to parking spaces, like a Tesla or Genesis GV60. While some replacement key fobs can be programmed by you with the assistance of a user's manual but you'll usually require an auto locksmith to get a new one programmed in case yours stops working. This is because a professional locksmith has the specialized equipment and access to the programming tools needed to connect your car's computer through the on-board diagnostics (OBD) port located beneath the steering wheel. The majority of key fobs are equipped with security features to make it harder for attackers duplicate and copy the signals that they transmit. Certain key fobs come with pseudo-random code generators which generate a unique unlock code each time you press the button. This stops attackers from recording and replaying the unlock signal to gain access to your vehicle. In most cases you can buy an additional key fob at the dealer or other retailer and have it programmed by a locksmith for your vehicle to be compatible with your particular vehicle. This is because the majority of major US and Asian automakers have key-fob programming protocols with the third-party firms who make the tools used by locksmiths who program their customer's keys. Certain key fobs from the aftermarket may be advertised as being compatible with all vehicles. However, automotive locksmiths advise against using them since they are likely to work poorly or not work even work at all. Instead, they suggest purchasing fobs designed specifically for your specific vehicle so that you are certain they'll work properly and are less susceptible to issues such as interfering or incompatibility. This will save you money in the long run by avoiding expensive repairs or replacing your fobs. Vehicle Manufacturers' Programming Tools The automotive industry has made huge advancements in the past few decades. Today's vehicles are computer-driven. One of the most important components of this technology is a transponder chip which must be programmed into the vehicle by a locksmith or dealer/mechanic in order to function. Key fobs with embedded security features that stop hot-wiring (like in a film) and the car won't start without the proper key. These key fobs are more complex than the mechanical keys, which is why you'll usually find them in the hands of an expert professional auto locksmith. The cost of a key fob will vary based on the vehicle model and the key type however they usually cost between $85 to $400. This includes the cost of labor to program the key fob, as well as the costs for any required replacement parts. Car key fobs are more intricate because they use a software system that works with the computer onboard of the car. The software prevents unauthorized access by only permitting the key to function if it has been programmed to that specific car. If you change your keys, you will need to program the new key fob in the car to allow it to function. This is accomplished using a programing tool for car keys that is compatible with the brand of your vehicle. This tool permits a locksmith to connect to the OBD port of the vehicle and then enter programming mode. The key programming device can be an handheld device that is cheap or extravagant and can do more than just program keys (like reading the eeprom file inside the ECU). Although some people might attempt to program their own keys using these tools, this is a job best left to a professional auto locksmith. Unless you're familiar with all the ins and outs of the various software systems, it's very easy to accidentally change settings that could potentially damage the vehicle. The most important thing to keep in mind is that an experienced professional can assist you in avoiding these problems. On-Board Programming If your car is old enough that you'll have a key from the past to open the doors and turn off the ignition. Modern vehicles have transponders that need to be acknowledged and accepted by the computer system in order to start. This is a further layer of security to keep thieves from stealing the car and then driving off with a stolen car. A locksmith who is certified will have the tools and software necessary to program a key that will function in your car's system. Your locksmith will have to acquire a key blank that is that is compatible with the vehicle's model and make. Once your locksmith has the key, he'll connect the scanner for programming to the diagnostic port of your vehicle. This will place the car in a special programming mode, which allows the locksmiths to add keys to the system. The key scanner is programmed to communicate with the computer in the vehicle to transmit the code. The computer will be able to recognize the code and add it to the list of keys approved by. In some cases, the scanner will also be able to erase keys that are stolen or lost from the system. EEPROM programming is another method that can be used to program new car keys. It is more complicated and requires a thorough understanding of how electronic systems work. It's best to leave it to a professional who has experience with these systems. Locksmiths can program a key quickly using onboard programming. If everything is done properly it could take just one minute. If the key isn't in the right situation or the procedure is not adhered to, it could take up to an hour. There are a variety of key programmer scanners which can work with different makes and models of vehicles. Both the Smart Pro and Autel IM608 Pro are very popular among locksmiths due to their broad range of vehicle models. There is no system that can program every vehicle. Additionally, these devices are expensive. It's a good idea purchase a programer that will get regular updates when the manufacturer introduces new technologies. If not, your computer will soon become obsolete.