Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Modern cars require some type of key programming. Depending on the car's maker and model, the procedure can be as simple as programming onboard using a spare key that works or as complex as EEPROM or OBD2 programming.
The majority of US and Asian car makers use the same programming protocols as auto tool manufacturers to allow them to develop tools and hardware for locksmiths working in automotive vehicles.
Transponder Chips
The majority of newer cars have transponder chips to stop car theft. These are microchips in the form of computers that emit radio signals at a low level. The microchips are equipped with a unique serial number which authenticates your key when you plug it into the ignition barrel. If your car doesn't recognise the signal it will shut down the engine. This technology has proven to be an immense success in stopping auto theft. It has also saved many car owners a significant amount of money because they don't need to replace their vehicles.
The basic concept behind the transponder system is to make it difficult for thieves to open the doors of your car without the right key. In the past, thieves would force the ignition switch of your car into the "on" position with the flat screwdriver, or make use of hot-wires to bypass the system completely. These kinds of thefts have been drastically reduced thanks to the introduction of the transponder chip.
When you insert the transponder keys in the ignition, the signal is received by an antenna hidden around the barrel. The antenna is programmed to match the frequency of the chip inside the key. The car's onboard computer will detect that the key is valid and allow fuel to flow, turn the starter or begin it.
Certain vehicles only recognize a specific type of transponder chip, depending on the manufacturer. It is therefore important that your locksmith for cars is equipped with the right equipment to program your car's keys and remotes.
A good automotive locksmith should have an instrument for programming keys for multiple vehicles that works with different models and car brands. This is a much cheaper option than buying separate tools for each type of vehicle. They are not as common however, there are specialist automotive key programming tools that can only be used on a specific model of vehicle. The best locksmiths for automotive have the tools needed to work on any vehicle. Make sure you select an established company that has this type of equipment.
Key FOBs
Key FOBs are programmeable transponder chip devices that permit your vehicle to open doors and start the engine using a push button ignition. It is also possible to press buttons to activate features such as trunk locks, door locks or control of the fuel flap. Certain fobs come with additional functions that can be controlled using the button presses for example, the "smart" key fob that lets you summon your car into parking spaces that are difficult to access, like you would with a Tesla or Genesis GV60.
You can program some spare key fobs by yourself with the assistance of the user guide, however you'll need to call an automotive locksmith if the one you have has stopped working. A professional locksmith is better equipped to connect your computer to the vehicle to the OBD port on the steering wheel.
The majority of key fobs come with security features to make it harder for attackers duplicate and copy the signals that they transmit. Some key fobs have pseudo-random code generators, which generate a unique unlock code every time you press the button. This blocks attackers from recording and replaying the unlock signal to gain access to your vehicle.
In many cases you can purchase an additional key fob at the dealer or other retailer and have it programmed by your locksmith in your car to fit your specific vehicle. This is because the majority of the major US and Asian automobile manufacturers have key fob programming protocols with third-party companies that produce the tools auto locksmiths employ to programme keys for their customers.
Some aftermarket key fobs may be marketed as compatible with any vehicle. However, automotive locksmiths advise against using them since they're more likely to perform poorly or even 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 susceptible to issues such as interfering or incompatibility. This will save money over time by avoiding costly repairs or replacements of your fobs.
Tool for programming the vehicle manufacturers
The automotive industry has advanced considerably and today's vehicles need computer technology in order to function. One key element of this technology is a transponder chip which requires to be programmed to the vehicle by an expert locksmith or dealer/mechanic in order to work. These key fobs are equipped with security features to prevent hot-wiring, as in a movie. The car won't start without the correct keys.
These key fobs are a bit more complicated than a mechanical keys and are the reason you'll typically find them in the hands of a skilled professional auto locksmith. The cost of the car key fob can vary depending on the type and model of key, but it is generally between $85 to $400. This includes the labor cost to program the keyfob and any replacement parts.
To make the process more difficult, these car key fobs make use of a special software to work with the car's onboard computer. The software blocks access by unauthorised persons by only permitting keys that have been programmed for a specific vehicle to work. This means that if your keys replaced, you'll need to have the new key fob programmed to the car in order to function.
The most popular method to do this is by using the car key programming tool that is compatible with the brand of the vehicle. This tool lets the locksmith connect to the onboard diagnostics port (OBD) in the vehicle and then enter the programming mode. Key programming devices can be a handheld device that is inexpensive or one that is fancy and can do more than just programming keys (like reading the eeprom file in the ECU).
Some people might attempt to program their keys themselves using these tools. However this should be left to a professional auto locksmith. programing car keys to make a mistake using the software systems if you don't know the nuances. This can lead to damage. The most important thing to keep in mind is that a professional with experience 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 key from the past to use to unlock the doors and turn off the ignition. Modern cars come with a transponder that must be recognized and accepted by the computer system to start. This is an additional layer of security to keep thieves from starting and driving away with a stolen vehicle. A locksmith who is certified will have the tools and software necessary to program a key that can function in your car's system.
Your locksmith will first need to purchase a blank key compatible with your vehicle's model and make. Once the key is in hand the locksmith will connect the scanner for programming to your car's diagnostic port. This will put the vehicle into a specific programming mode, which allows locksmiths to connect keys to the system.
To do this, the key programmer scanner will communicate with the car's computer to send a specific 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 be able to erase keys that have been stolen or lost from the system.
You can also program new keys by using the EEPROM. It is more complex and requires an in-depth understanding of how electronic systems function. This is why it's best left to a professional that has a lot of experience working on these types of systems.
Onboard programming is the quickest way for a locksmith to program an entirely new key. It takes as little as an hour if everything is done correctly. If the key is not in good working order or the procedure isn't being followed exactly, the process could be as long as half an hour.
There are numerous key programmer scanners which can work with various models and makes of vehicles. Both the Smart Pro and Autel IM608 Pro are very popular with locksmiths due to their wide selection of vehicle models. However, neither can program every single vehicle that exists. Additionally, these devices are 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 obsolete if you do not take this step.