Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Most modern-day cars require some form of key programming. Depending on the vehicle's make and model, the process can be as easy as onboard programming using a spare working key or as complicated as EEPROM or OBD2 programming.
The majority of US and Asian automakers share their programming protocol with auto tool makers, so they can develop hardware or software for locksmiths in the automotive industry.
Transponder Chips
Most newer cars use what are called transponder chips to prevent car theft. These are tiny computer microchips which emit radio signals of low-level. They have a unique digital serial number that authenticates the key to your car when it is plugged into the ignition barrel. If your car isn't able to recognize the signal, it will shut down the engine. This technology has proven to be an enormous success in preventing auto theft. This technology has also helped car owners save a huge amount of money by not having to buy new vehicles.
The principle behind the transponder system is to make it impossible for thieves to open the doors of your vehicle without a valid key. In the past, thieves would simply force your ignition switch to the "on" position using a flat screwdriver or even use hot wires to disable the system altogether. These kinds of thefts have drastically decreased with the introduction of the transponder chip.
When you place the transponder key in the ignition, the signal is picked up by an antenna that is hidden within the barrel. This antenna is programmed to read the specific frequency of the chip within the key. The car's onboard computer will then recognise that the key is genuine and allow fuel to flow, turn the starter or begin it.
Depending on the manufacturer, certain vehicles can only recognize certain types of transponder chip. This is why it's crucial to make sure that your automotive locksmith has the right equipment to program your car's key and fobs properly.
A reputable locksmith for cars should have an instrument for programming keys for multiple vehicles that is compatible with different models and manufacturers of cars. This is a cheaper alternative to purchasing individual tools for every brand of vehicle. They are not as common but there are automotive key programmers that can only be used on a specific model of vehicle. The best automotive locksmiths will have the appropriate equipment to tackle any type of vehicle, so ensure you find a reputable company that has these types of tools.
Key FOBs
As the name suggests, key FOBs contain programmable transponder chips that enable your car to recognize and unlock the doors or start the engine using push-button ignition. You can also use the buttons to activate features such as door locks, trunk releases or control of the fuel flap. Some fobs can be controlled by pressing buttons. For instance, a "smart key" which allows you to summon your car to tight parking spaces, like the Genesis GV60, Tesla or Genesis GV60.
You can program replacement key fobs yourself using the help from an instruction manual, however you will 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 via the OBD port on the steering wheel.
Today, most key fobs include security features that make it difficult for attackers to duplicate or duplicate the signals they transmit. They include pseudo-random generators that generate a fresh unlock code each time you press the button on your key fob. This prevents attackers capturing and replaying the unlock signal to gain access to your vehicle.
In most instances you can purchase a replacement key fob from the dealer or other retailer and have it programmed by your automotive locksmith to fit your particular vehicle. This is because the majority of major US and Asian automakers use the same key-fob programming protocol with the third-party firms who produce the tools used by locksmiths for programming their customers' keys.
While some of the aftermarket key fobs are marketed as being compatible with all vehicles, most automotive locksmiths do not recommend using them as they are likely to function poorly or not at all. They suggest purchasing fobs that are designed specifically for your vehicle so that they function properly and are less susceptible to issues like interference or incompatibility. This will save you money over the long term by avoiding expensive repairs or replacing the fobs.
Tool for programming the vehicle manufacturers
The automotive industry has made huge strides in the last few decades. Today's vehicles are computer-driven. Transponder chips are an essential part of this technology. It has to be programmed by a locksmith, mechanic or dealer to work. Key fobs come with built-in security features that will prevent hot-wiring (like in a film) and the car will not start if you don't have the correct key.
Key fobs are more complex than the mechanical keys and that's why they are usually in the hands of a reputable professional auto locksmith. The cost of a key fob may vary based on the vehicle model and the key type however, they generally cost between $85 and $400. This includes the cost of labor to program the key fob and the cost of any needed replacement parts.
To make the process more difficult, these car key fobs use a special software system to communicate with the car's onboard computer. The software blocks unauthorized access by only allowing the key to operate only if it's programmed to the car in question. This means that if your keys replaced, you'll need to have the new key fob programed to the car in order for it to work.
This is accomplished by using a tool for programming car keys that is compatible with the vehicle's brand. This tool allows a locksmith to connect to the OBD port on the vehicle and then enter the programming mode. Key programming tools can be a handheld device that is inexpensive device or a high-end one that can perform a wide range of things beyond just key programming (like reading and cloning the EEEPROM files in the ECU).
Some people may try to program their keys by themselves using these tools. However this should be left to an experienced auto locksmith. Unless you're familiar with all the aspects of the various software systems, it's possible to accidentally change settings that could potentially damage the vehicle. It's important to remember that an experienced professional will help you avoid these problems.
On-Board Programming
If your vehicle is old enough, you'll still have a key from the past to use to unlock the doors and turn over the ignition. Modern cars have transponders that must be acknowledged and accepted by the computer system to start. This is a further layer of security that prevents car thieves from starting and driving away with a stolen car. A locksmith who is certified will have the right tools and software to create a key that is compatible with your car's security system.
Your locksmith will first need to acquire a blank key that is compatible with your car's make and model. Once your locksmith has the key, he will connect the programming scanner to the diagnostic port of your vehicle. This will put your car into a special programing mode, which will allow locksmiths to connect the key to the system.
The key scanner is programmed to communicate with the computer of the car to send an electronic code. The computer will recognize this code and add it to the list of keys that are authorized. In some instances, a scanner can also delete lost or stolen keys.
Programming EEPROM is another method that can be used to program new car keys. It is more complex and requires an in-depth understanding of how electronic systems operate. This is why it should be left to a professional who has extensive expertise working on these types of systems.
Locksmiths can program a key quickly using onboard programming. It can take as little as an hour if everything is done correctly. If the key isn't in the right condition or the procedure isn't being followed exactly, the process could take as long as a half hour.
There are a variety of key programmer scanners that can be used with different models and makes of vehicles. Both the Smart Pro and Autel IM608 Pro are very popular with locksmiths due to their broad range of models for vehicles. However, neither can program automotive key programming on the market. These machines are also quite expensive. It's a good idea buy a programmer that receives regular updates as the manufacturer develops new technologies. Your programming machine will quickly become outdated if you don't take this step.