The Biggest "Myths" About Automotive Locksmith Key Programming Could Be A Lie
Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Modern automobiles require some kind of key programming. Depending on the car's maker and model, the process can be as simple as onboard programming using a spare key that works or as complex as EEPROM or OBD2 programming.
The majority of US and Asian car makers share their programming protocols with auto tool makers so that they can develop tools and hardware for automotive locksmiths to use.
Transponder Chips
Most modern cars are equipped with what are called transponder chips in order to prevent theft. These are small 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 vehicle does not recognize the signal and the engine is shut down. This technology has proven 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 vehicles.
The basic concept behind the transponder system is to make it hard for thieves to start your car without the right key. In the past, car thieves would force your car's ignition switch into the "on" position using a flat screwdriver or even hot-wire the car to bypass the system completely. These kinds of thefts have been drastically decreased with the introduction of the transponder chip.
When you insert the transponder key in the ignition the signal is picked up by an antenna that is hidden within the barrel. This antenna is programmed with the frequency of the chip in the key. The car's computer onboard will recognize that the key is genuine and allow fuel to flow, power up the starter or start it.
Certain vehicles only recognize a certain type of transponder chip, depending on the manufacturer. This is why it's essential to ensure that your locksmith for automotive is equipped to program your car's keys and fobs correctly.
A reputable locksmith for cars should have a multi-vehicle key programming device that is compatible with different models and manufacturers of cars. This is a much cheaper alternative than buying individual tools for each brand of vehicle. These are less common but there are automotive key programmers that are able to only be used on a specific model of vehicle. The best locksmiths for automotive are equipped to work on any vehicle. Be sure to choose an established company that has this type of equipment.
Key FOBs
As the name implies, 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. It is also possible to press buttons to activate features like trunk releases, door locks or controls for the fuel flap. Some fobs can be controlled by pressing buttons. For instance the "smart key" which allows you to summon your car into tight parking spaces, such as the Genesis GV60 or a Tesla or Genesis GV60.
You can program spare key fobs by yourself with the help of a user guide, but you'll need to contact an automotive locksmith in the event that yours has stopped functioning. A professional locksmith is more equipped to connect your computer to the vehicle to the OBD port located under the steering wheel.
The majority of key fobs today have security features that make it difficult for hackers to duplicate or copy the signals they transmit. They include pseudo-random sequence generators that generate a new unlock code each time you press the button on the key fob. This blocks attackers from recording and replaying the unlock signal to gain access to your vehicle.
In most instances you can buy a replacement key fob from the dealer or other retailer and then 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 car manufacturers share their key fob programming protocols with third-party firms that produce the tools locksmiths utilize to program keys for their customers.
While some aftermarket key fobs are advertised as compatible with all vehicles however, the majority of locksmiths for automotive do not recommend using them because they will likely only work poorly or not at all. Instead, they recommend purchasing fobs designed specifically for your vehicle, so that you can be sure they'll function properly and be less susceptible to issues like interfering or incompatibility. This will save you money over time, as you avoid costly repairs or replacements of your fobs.
Tool for Programming Vehicle Manufacturers'
The automotive industry has come a long way, and today's vehicles require computer technology to function. A transponder chip is an essential component of this technology. It has to be programmed by a locksmith mechanic or dealer to work. Key fobs with embedded security features that prevent hot-wiring (like in a film) and the car won't start if it doesn't have the right key.
Key fobs are a bit more complex than your mechanical keys and are the reason they are usually in the hands of a skilled, professional auto locksmith. The cost of a key fob may vary based on the vehicle model and the type of key however, they generally cost between $85 to $400. This includes the labor required to program the key fob as well as the cost of any needed 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 prevents unauthorized access by only allowing the key to operate only if it's been programmed to the car in question. If you change your keys, you'll need to program the new key fob into the car for it to function.
This is accomplished by using a tool for programming car keys that is compatible with the vehicle's brand. This tool permits a locksmith to connect to the OBD port in the vehicle and then enter the programming mode. The key programming device can 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 file in the ECU).
While some may try to program their own keys using these tools, this is something best left to an experienced auto locksmith. Unless you're familiar with all the details of the various software systems, it's possible to accidentally change settings that could cause damage to the vehicle. The most important thing to keep in mind is that an experienced professional can assist you in avoiding these issues.
On-Board Programming
If your vehicle is older than you, you'll still have a traditional key made of metal to use to unlock the doors and turn off the ignition. Modern cars have transponders that need to be acknowledged and accepted by the computer system before it can start. This is an additional layer of protection that can stop car thieves from starting a stolen car and driving off with it. A locksmith certified has the tools and software needed to program a key that will work in your car's system.
First, your locksmith needs to purchase a blank key that is compatible with the make and model of your car. Once the key is in your possession the locksmith will connect the scanner that is used for programming to the diagnostic port of your car. This will place the car into the mode of programming which will allow the locksmith to add a new key into the system.
The key scanner that is programmed communicates with the computer of the vehicle to transmit an electronic code. The computer will recognize this code and add it into the list of keys that are authorized. In some instances the scanner will 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 deep understanding of how electronic systems function. This is why it's best left to a professional that has extensive experience working with these kinds of systems.
Locksmiths can program keys quickly using onboard programming. It takes as little as an hour if everything is completed correctly. If the key is not in the right condition or the procedure isn't followed precisely, the procedure could take as long as a half hour.
There are many different key programmer scanners which can work with different makes and models of vehicles. Both the Smart Pro and Autel IM608 Pro have become very popular with locksmiths due their wide selection of vehicle models. However, no system can program every vehicle on the market. Additionally, these devices are expensive. It is best to buy an instrument that receives regular updates from the manufacturer as new technologies are introduced. key programing programming software will soon become obsolete if you don't do this.