5 Laws That Anyone Working In Car Keys Programming Should Know
What is Car Keys Programming?
Modern cars have a computer chip inside the key fob that allows communication with the vehicle. This computer and key must be programmed to ensure that they are able to communicate.
This can be accomplished by a locksmith, or a dealership, depending on the car manufacturer. The process is slightly different but it's always the same.
What is the most important in reprogramming?
When your car keys stop working because of an unrepaired or damaged key fob, it's recommended to get them reprogrammed with an expert. The process can be complex and potentially dangerous if it's not done correctly. There are also a number of different steps that may require taking into account depending on your particular vehicle. Many people prefer hiring an auto locksmith to provide this service rather than attempting to do it themselves.
Reprogramming for most vehicles is relatively simple. The expert will begin by taking a look at the make and model of the car to determine which blank key fob and tools will be needed. The professional will then program the new chip or clone it with specialist equipment. They will then test the key and verify that it is functioning properly.
Certain vehicles require an advanced programmer which only a handful of auto experts have access to. This can be a costly option that requires a lot of time and training to master. If you have a reliable and experienced auto locksmith with the appropriate equipment, they can carry out this procedure quickly for you.
Some vehicles also have special programming procedures for EEPROM that must be handled by professionals. These can take several hours to perform and are more difficult to follow. These techniques are also risky and can cause damage to the circuit board inside the antitheft system of your vehicle.
You'll need a manual for your car if you would like to reprogram your keys. Some guides will work with most models, but they might not work for all models. Most of these guides warn against DIY methods because they can damage the information stored in your vehicle's security module.
In certain instances, manufacturers will only allow their dealers to reprogramme keys. This is due to the fact that they have to establish a secure connection to the factory computer that is used to store this information. This will stop other people from being able to use your vehicle if they gain access to your original key.
How do I get my key programmed?
The process of reprogramming your car key is to insert a blank chip into the key and programming it to match your vehicle's current settings. Ordering a replacement key from the manufacturer of your car could be an option, but it could take a long time - and while it's in the meantime, you'll not have the convenience of being able to travel with ease. Car locksmiths can help!
You might be able depending on the vehicle you own, to reprogram your key using software available on the internet. These programs aren't compatible with all models or brands and can be difficult to use. It is best to let a professional software the key to your success because they have the proper tools and know how to do it.
You will need an assortment of keys that match your car's model and make to do this. It is possible to buy these online at a discounted price, but you have to make sure they are empty prior to ordering them. You can also go to a locksmith, but these are more likely to charge more as they need to purchase their own software and advanced car key programer key programming tools in order to program your car keys for you.
These advanced car key programmer key programmers are costly and only accessible to professionals who have the right license. They also have a token system that allows only one program per day or hour. If you program the key repeatedly then the code in the car could become corrupted.
It is best to let an experienced auto-locksmith reset your keys. They will have a better understanding of the software and security systems that are involved, which can significantly reduce the risk of any corruptions or errors occurring. Plus, they will have the latest tools and software to accomplish this which are much more secure and efficient.
What are the prerequisites to program keys?
Modern vehicles require keys that have special chips that communicate with the system of the vehicle. These chips must be programmed to be compatible with the specific car you own and make it impossible to use any key fob that is compatible with your car, even if it is duplicate. This makes car theft more difficult, it also means that you can't just replace your broken key fob with a new one and expect the old one to remain working. This is why the majority of people must contact an auto locksmith to program a new key for their car, though it is possible to do so yourself in some cases.
To accomplish this, you'll need two working car keys. Once you have them you can sit in the driver's seat and open the ignition in your car. Put the new key into the ignition, then turn it on to start your car. This will connect the new key with your system, making it a functional replacement for the key you lost. This process may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer, so you should consult the instructions that came with your key or search for your specific year/make/model online to get the exact steps.
You should consider buying a key shell rather than an actual key head if want to save on the cost of programming keys. The shell is essentially the plastic part that houses the key blade, so you can often buy them at a lower price from auto parts or hardware stores. You will still have to transfer the internals (the circuit board and chip) from the previous keyhead into the new shell.
This can be accomplished by a professional, however it will cost more than a standard spare key. The professional will need to be equipped with a sophisticated programmer to connect to the computer in your car, and this device can cost thousands of dollars. You might be able to buy a cheaper version on the internet, but this option will likely not work for your vehicle.
The process of reprogramming keys can be a bit complicated and certain cars are more difficult to programme than others. Some have a relatively easy procedure that can be accomplished by hand or using an OBD2 reader, while other models need to be programmed with a specialized tool known as an EEPROM reader. Some of these tools are only sold through dealers and cost a lot. You should leave this work to experts.
How long will it be before the key is programmed?
It's all dependent on the kind of car you own and whether it comes with special anti-theft features. Many cars have security features that prevent the key from working if not programmed car keys to the vehicle. This is to protect against theft and requires an expert car locksmith for each model. The key must be able to communicate with the onboard computer to unlock the doors and start the engine. A professional auto locksmith can get this figured out quickly and efficiently.
Even for experienced professionals, some car brands are difficult to program. For these models, the process could take a long time or even days. The process requires EEPROM programming procedures which locksmiths typically don't have.
Other features of cars may also require programming in order to function correctly. This could include a remote start, automatic transmission or power windows. A professional auto locksmith can assist you in the event that your keys have gone missing or are damaged.
Before determining the exact tools needed, most professionals will require the make and model number of the vehicle. They will also need a blank key compatible with their vehicle. Once they have both these items they can program the transponder chip, or key fob, and also clone the key if needed. Once all the work has been completed and the key is tested to ensure that it functions.
The dashboard security light will remain on until the key has been properly programmed. This is to notify the owner that the key isn't operating properly and needs to be reprogrammed by an expert.
It is important to keep a spare in case yours gets lost or damaged. It can be expensive and difficult to program a damaged key. A locksmith in your car can complete the job much more efficiently and at only a fraction of the cost!