10 Things You'll Need To Know About Automotive Locksmith Key Programming Automotive Locksmith Key Programming

The majority of modern cars require some form of key programming. Depending on the model and manufacturer the process could be as simple as using an additional key to programme the computer onboard, or as complex as OBD2 programming or EEPROM.

Most US and Asian automakers have a programming protocol that they share with auto tool makers, so they can create hardware or software for locksmiths in the automotive industry.

Transponder Chips

Most modern cars are equipped with transponder chips to stop car theft. These are tiny computer microchips which emit radio waves of 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 stop the engine. This technology has proved to be an enormous success in preventing auto theft. This technology has also helped car owners save a huge deal of money by not having 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 car thieves would use the flat screwdriver to push the ignition switch in your car into "on" mode, or wire it hot to get around the system. These types of thefts have been dramatically reduced with the introduction of the transponder chip.

When you insert a transponder key into the ignition, it transmits a signal that is detected by a hidden antenna circling the barrel of the ignition. The antenna is programmed to match the frequency of the chip inside the key. The computer onboard of the car will recognize the key as being valid and allow fuel flow and power the starter to start the engine.

Based on the manufacturer, certain vehicles can only accept the specific type of transponder chip. It is therefore important that your locksmith in the automotive industry is equipped with the right equipment to program your car's keys and remotes.

A reliable locksmith for cars will utilize a multi-vehicle programmable tool that can be used on a variety of different automobile models and manufacturers. This is a far more cost-effective approach than purchasing individual tools for each brand of vehicle. There are also specialised automotive key programmer devices that are only suitable for specific models of vehicles however they are not as popular. The top automotive locksmiths have the tools to work on any vehicle. Be sure to choose a reliable company that is equipped with this kind of equipment.

Key FOBs

As the name implies, key FOBs house the transponder chips that can be programmed to allow your vehicle to recognize and open the doors, or start the engine with a push-button ignition. They also have buttons that you can push to activate features like trunk release, door locks or fuel flap control. Some fobs have additional functions that can be controlled with the push of a button, such as the "smart" key fob that lets you get your car into parking spaces that are difficult to access similar to the Genesis GV60, Tesla or Genesis GV60.

You can program some replacement key fobs yourself using the help from a user guide, but you will need to call an automotive locksmith if the one you have isn't working. This is because a professional locksmith has the specialized equipment and access to the programming tools required to connect your car's computer through the on-board diagnostics (OBD) port beneath the steering wheel.

The majority of key fobs today come with security features that make it difficult for criminals to duplicate or duplicate the signals they transmit. They include pseudo-random generators that generate a new unlock code each time you press the button on the key fob. This stops attackers from recording and replaying the unlock signal to gain access to your vehicle.

In many instances you can purchase an additional key fob at the dealer or other retailer and have it programmed by your automotive locksmith to fit your particular vehicle. This is because most of the major US and Asian car makers share their key fob programming protocols with third-party companies that produce the tools auto locksmiths use to program keys for their customers.

Certain key fobs from the aftermarket may be advertised as being compatible with all vehicles. However, locksmiths for automotive strongly discourage using them as they're more likely to perform poorly or even not even work at all. They suggest purchasing fobs that are designed specifically for your vehicle to ensure they work correctly and are less prone to issues such as interference or incompatibility. This will save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs or replacements for your fobs.

Vehicle Manufacturers' Programming Tools

The automotive industry has progressed a lot and modern vehicles require computer technology in order to function. One key element of this technology is a transponder chip that requires to be programmed to the vehicle by an expert locksmith or dealer/mechanic in order to work. Key fobs are fitted with security features that prevent hot-wiring, like in a film. The car won't start if the keys are not correct.

These key fobs are more complex than your traditional mechanical key and are the reason you'll usually find them in the hands of a reputable professional auto locksmith. The cost of a key fob will vary depending on the car model and the type of key however they usually cost between $85 and $400. This includes the labor cost to program the keyfob, as well as any replacement parts.

To complicate the process the car key fobs make use of a special software to work with the car's onboard computer. The software blocks unauthorized access by allowing the key to operate only if it's been programmed to that specific car. If you change your keys, you will have to program the new key fob to the car to allow it to work.

This is accomplished using a programming tool for keys for cars that are compatible with the brand of your vehicle. 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 either be an inexpensive handheld device or a high-end one that is capable of performing various things beyond just key programming (like reading and cloning the EEEPROM files in the ECU).

While some may try to program their own keys using these tools, this is something best left to a professional auto locksmith. If you're not familiar with the aspects of the various software systems, it's easy to make a mistake and alter settings that could cause damage to the vehicle. It's important to keep in mind that a professional with experience will help you avoid these issues.

On-Board programming

If your car is older than you, you'll still have a traditional key made of metal that you can use to open the doors and turn off the ignition. Modern cars come with transponders that must be acknowledged and accepted by the computer system before it can start. This adds an extra layer of security that prevents car thieves from starting a stolen car and then driving off with the car. A locksmith who is certified will have the tools and software necessary to program a key that can be compatible with your car's security system.


The locksmith will need to get a blank key that is compatible with the make and model of your vehicle. Once the key is in your possession, your locksmith will link the scanner for programming to the diagnostic port of your car. This will place the car into the mode of programming that will allow the locksmith to add a new key to the system.

To accomplish this, the key programmer scanner will communicate with the car's computer system to transmit a particular code. The computer will be able to recognize the code and add it to the list of keys approved by. In certain instances the scanner will be able to remove keys that have been stolen or lost from the system.

You can also program new keys with EEPROM. It is more complicated and requires a thorough understanding of how electronic systems function. This is why it should be left to a professional who has years of expertise working on these types of systems.

Locksmiths can program a key quickly using onboard programming. It can take less than an hour if everything is done correctly. However, if the key isn't in the correct situation or the procedure is not followed exactly, it can take as long as a half hour.

There are numerous key programmer scanners available that can be used with different car models and makes. Both the Smart Pro and Autel IM608 Pro are very popular with locksmiths due to their broad range of models for vehicles. There is no system that can program every vehicle. These devices are also expensive. It is a good idea to buy a programmer that will get regular updates as the manufacturer releases new technologies. Otherwise, your programming machine will soon become obsolete.