What is Car Keys Programming?
Modern vehicles incorporate a computer chip inside the key fob that allows communication with the vehicle. The key and the computer must be programmed to know each one another (think Tinder) and this is referred to as car key programming.
This can be done either by a locksmith, or a dealership, depending on the manufacturer of the vehicle. The process varies slightly however, it is generally easy.
What is the key to reprogramming?
It is recommended to have them reprogrammed by a professional if your car keys don't work because of a damaged or lost key fob. The process isn't easy and potentially dangerous if it's not done correctly. There are also different procedures to be considered in accordance with the vehicle. This is the reason why a lot of people prefer having this service done by a professional auto locksmith instead of attempting to do it themselves.
The process of reprogramming most vehicles is relatively simple. The professional will begin by looking at the model and make of the car to determine which blank key fob and tools are required. The professional will then program the new chip or clone it using specialist equipment. Then they will test the key to ensure it's working properly.
Some vehicles require a computer advanced that only a few car specialists have access to. This is an expensive option that requires a lot of training and time to master. If you have a reputable and experienced auto locksmith with the appropriate equipment, they can complete the process quickly for you.
Certain vehicles also have programming procedures for EEPROM that must be performed by professionals. These procedures can take several hours and are not easy to follow. These methods are also dangerous and can damage the circuit board inside the antitheft system of your vehicle.
If you're planning to reprogramme your keys by yourself you'll need an appropriate guide for your particular vehicle. There are some guides that work for most models, but not all. Most of these guides warn against DIY methods because they can corrupt the information stored in your vehicle's security module.
In certain instances manufacturers will not allow their dealerships modify keys. They will require a secure connection to the factory computer that stores this information. This will prevent others from accessing your vehicle if they gain access to your original key.
How do I get a key programmed?
The process of reprogramming your car key involves inserting 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 can take time - and, in the meantime, you will not have the ease of being able to travel without difficulty. This is where car locksmiths come in!
You may be able, depending on the car you own, to reprogram your key with software available on the internet. However these programs do not support every make or model and are a bit confusing to use. It is better to let a professional software your key for you because they have the right tools and know exactly how to use it.
You will need a set of blank keys that match your vehicle's model and make to accomplish this. You can purchase keys online at a lower price, but you have to make sure they are blank before ordering them. You can also go to locksmiths, but they will charge you more because they have to buy their own tools and software to program your car keys.
These sophisticated key programming devices for cars are expensive and accessible only to professionals who have the appropriate license. In addition, these vehicles typically come with a token system that only allows one attempt at programming to be done every day or hour. This means that if you try to program a key over and again, it's possible that the code on the car will be corrupted.
It is therefore recommended to only let an experienced auto locksmith carry out the key reprogramming for you. They will have a greater understanding of the security systems, software and other elements involved. This will decrease the chance of corruption or errors. Additionally, they will have the latest tools and software to do so which are much safer and more efficient.
What do I require to get a key programmed?
Modern vehicles require keys with special chips that communicate with car's systems. The chips are programmed to work only with the vehicle you own which makes it impossible to use any other key fob, even if you have duplicate. This makes car theft more difficult, it also means that you can't simply replace your broken key fob with another one and expect the previous one to work. Most people will need to call a locksmith to program keys for their car however, it's possible in some cases to do this yourself.
You'll need two car keys that work. Once you have those you can sit in the driver's seat and open the ignition in your car. Insert your new key in the ignition and then turn it to start your vehicle. This will link the new key to your system, making it a functional replacement for the lost one. This process may vary slightly according to the manufacturer, so read the instructions that came with your key or search for your specific year/make/model online to find the exact steps.
Consider purchasing a keyshell instead of the head of a key if you want to save on programming costs for key keys. You can purchase the shell which is the piece of plastic that holds the key blade at cheaper prices in auto or hardware stores. It is still necessary to transfer the internals (the circuit board and chip) from the previous keyhead into the new shell.
This can be done by a professional, however it will cost you more than a spare key that you can buy. Professionals will require an advanced programer that could cost thousands of dollar to connect to your computer in your car. Online, you may be able to buy a lower version. However, automotive key programming will not work with your car.
Reprogramming the key can be difficult, and some cars are more challenging to do than others. Some have a relatively easy procedure that can be accomplished by hand or using an OBD2 reader, whereas other models must be programmed using a special device called an EEPROM reader. Some of these tools are only available through dealers and cost a lot. It is best to leave this work to experts.
How long before a key is programmed?
It's dependent on the type of car you have and whether it has special anti-theft features. For instance, a lot of cars have a system that will prevent the key from beginning the vehicle if it's not programmed to work with the particular vehicle. This is to stop theft and requires an experienced locksmith for each model. The key must be able to communicate with the onboard computer to unlock the doors and begin the engine. A professional auto locksmith will figure this out quickly and efficiently.
Certain car brands are difficult to program, even for an experienced professional. For these models, the process may take a long time or even days. The procedure requires EEPROM programming which locksmiths typically don't have.
Other features of cars may also require programming to work correctly. This could be remote starters, an automatic transmission or power windows. In these cases an auto locksmith professional will be able to assist if you have lost or broken your keys.
The majority of professionals must assess the make and model of the vehicle they are working on before they can decide what tools they will need. Additionally they should have a key blank compatible with the vehicle. Once they have both of these things they can program the transponder chip or key fob and then clone a key if needed. After all the work is completed, the key will be tested to ensure that it works.
The dashboard security light will remain on until the key has been properly programmed. This is to inform the owner that the key isn't working correctly and should be reprogrammed by a professional.
It is important to keep an extra in case yours gets lost or damaged. However, if you have a broken key or fob that has to be programmed, it can be time-consuming and costly. A professional auto locksmith can do the job faster and at a lower cost.