Question: How Much Do You Know About Programming Keys? Programming Car Keys

Nowadays, cars have smart keys and key fobs that need to be programmed in order to function correctly. Programming can be completed at a car dealership or using specialized tools.

Hardware stores are not able to duplicate keys for modern cars. The majority of customers end in an auto dealership or a locksmith. Stores that provide these tools can assist customers program replacement keys, restore immobilizer data and more.

Keys with transponders

There are many different types of car keys that are available on the market. Selecting the best one is based on your preferences and needs. Some are simpler to use while others offer greater security. Transponder keys are a good option for those looking to be extra protected against theft. They contain a chip that transmits signals to the computer in your car when the key is put in. The signals are analyzed by the car's computer to verify that the key is genuine and authorized. This helps to deter car thieves by preventing them from starting the vehicle without the right key.

Transponder chips, a new technology, are typically installed into the key head of your vehicle. These chips are specifically designed to send a unique digital serial number when the key is put into the ignition. This information is read by the transponder reader inside the car, which is linked with the ignition. If the information is in line, the car's information, it will start. This method is much more secure than traditional mechanical keys, as it prevents hot-wiring. It is not 100% secure. Thieves have developed ways to bypass this security feature.

When it comes to replacing a transponder key, most people assume that they have to visit their dealership to get the most efficient service. While this may be true in certain situations but there are locksmiths that can offer a duplicate transponder key for only a fraction of the cost of a dealership for cars. They have the same tools as a dealership and will provide you with a functioning replacement key at a lower price.

There is a special type of car key called the Fobik remote key, which has an embedded transponder. These keys are generally used on Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles. They are also available on Mercedes and Infiniti vehicles. These keys are more difficult to duplicate than standard keys and require a higher degree of programming.

The advent of transponder key technology has been a boon to car manufacturers. However it hasn't completely eliminated the theft of cars. This is because thieves have discovered ways to steal cars using the technology. Despite this the fact that transponder keys are the most effective method of cutting down on the number of car theft.

Keep your car keys somewhere secure to prevent it from being lost. Also, automotive key programming should keep a spare key in case of a need. If your key is lost or stolen, you need to call a professional locksmith as soon as possible to replace it. You will avoid unnecessary costs and stress. You can also choose to include a proximity sensor installed. This type of key is cheaper to replace than other kinds of keys, however it requires advanced programming.

Keys equipped with transponder chip

If your car was manufactured in the recent 20 years or so you are likely to have a key with a transponder chip in it. Typically referred to as ignition keys or chip keys, These devices are used to stop car theft by making it more difficult for thieves to hot wire your vehicle. You can also find these types of keys used with garage door remote openers and home security systems.

A transponder chip (pictured below) is a tiny microchip that is embedded in the head of your car key. It transmits a signal to your cars computer when it's used to turn on and start the engine. The signal is transmitted via an antenna ring around the ignition cylinder. The car must be able to read this signal to start. If your car is not capable of reading the signal from your key, it will shut down - this is known as the immobilizer system.

Car theft was a big problem in the past, before this technology became widely utilized. Many thieves would employ the simple method of hot-wiring your vehicle. By simply placing an electrical wire around the ignition barrel they could fool the computer of your car into thinking that a valid key was being used, and then allow the car to start.

This new technology was able to remove the need for hot-wiring and, as a consequence, car thefts dropped significantly. GM was the very first US manufacturer to employ this technology in their 1985 Corvette. Since then, all major car manufacturers have implemented this technology into their vehicles.

Many people are familiar with how a standard transponder key appears, they look like a traditional metal key with a plastic top. This plastic top is the place where the chip is and is known as a "chip-key". Keys can be cut in various styles including a standard cut, laser cut (also called a sidewinder cut) or even a tibbe, that can be found in Jaguars and Fords.


Most transponder key require specialized equipment to be programmed. However, certain models of keys like GM and Ford, can be programmed at home by using the owner's manual and an existing working key. Certain chip keys come with an embedded microchip that does not require batteries. Some do, and require charging the battery periodically. Beishir Lock and Security carries an extensive selection of chip keys for all kinds of vehicles at prices that are less expensive than those at the dealership. Our service can provide you with a functioning chip key or we can duplicate and program your existing key so that you have a spare. For more information, contact us!