Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Modern cars need some form of key programming. Depending on your vehicle's model and manufacturer the procedure could be as simple as using an additional key to program the onboard computer or as complicated as OBD2 programming or EEPROM.
Most US and Asian automobile manufacturers share their programming protocols with auto tool manufacturers so that they can develop software and hardware for automotive locksmiths to use.
Transponder Chips
Transponder chips are in a variety of newer vehicles to stop theft of cars. These are tiny computer microchips that emit low-level radio signals. They have a unique serial number that authenticates the key to your vehicle when it is connected to the ignition barrel. If your vehicle isn't able to recognize the signal it will shut down. This technology has proven to be an incredible success in preventing auto theft. This technology has also saved car owners a great deal of money as they do not have to replace their vehicles.
The principle of the transponder system is to make it hard for thieves to open the doors of your car without the right key. In the past, thieves would use a flat screwdriver to force the ignition switch of your vehicle into "on" mode or even hot-wire it in order to get around the system. Transponder chips have drastically reduced these types of thefts.
When you insert the transponder key in the ignition, the signal is received by an antenna that is concealed around the barrel. The antenna is programmed to match the frequency of the chip inside the key. The car's computer onboard will recognise that the key is valid and allow fuel to flow, power the starter or begin it.
Depending on the manufacturer, certain vehicles can only accept the specific type of transponder chip. It is therefore essential that your automotive locksmith is equipped with the appropriate equipment to program your keys and remotes for your vehicle.
A reputable locksmith for automotive needs to have a multi-vehicle key programming tool that works with different models and car brands. This is a far cheaper option than buying specific tools for each model of vehicle. These aren't as popular, but there are specialised automotive key programmers that can only work on a specific type of vehicle. The best automotive locksmiths are equipped to work on any vehicle. Make sure you choose a reputable firm that has this type of equipment.
Key FOBs
As the name implies, key FOBs contain programmable transponder chips that allow your vehicle to recognize and open the doors, or start the engine with a push-button ignition. There are also buttons that you can push to activate features such as door locks, trunk release or fuel flap control. Certain fobs come with additional functions that can be controlled using the button presses like a "smart" key fob that lets you summon 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'll need to contact an automotive locksmith if yours isn't working. This is because an expert locksmith has the specialized equipment and access to the programming tools needed to connect your car's computer to the OBD (OBD) port located beneath the steering wheel.
The majority of key fobs today come with security features that make it difficult for attackers to clone or replicate the signals they transmit. Certain key fobs feature pseudo-random code generators that generate a different unlock code every time you press the button. This stops attackers from recording and playing back the unlock signal in order to gain access to your vehicle.
In most instances you can purchase an alternative key fob from the dealer or other retailer and have it programmed by your automotive locksmith to fit your particular vehicle. This is due to the fact that most of the major US and Asian car makers use key fob programming protocols with third-party companies who make the tools that locksmiths for auto utilize to program keys for their customers.
While some of the aftermarket key fobs are advertised as compatible with all vehicles however, the majority of locksmiths for automotive do not recommend using them since they are likely to function poorly or not at all. They suggest buying fobs designed specifically for your vehicle to ensure they will work properly and are less prone to issues like interference or incompatibility. This will save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs or replacing the fobs.
Tools for programming vehicles used by manufacturers
The automobile industry has made significant strides in the last few decades. Today's vehicles are computer-driven. One of the key components of this technology is a transponder chip which requires to be programmed to the vehicle by an auto locksmith or dealer/mechanic order to work. Key fobs are fitted with security features that prevent hot-wiring like in a film. The car won't start without the correct keys.
These key fobs are a bit more complex than your traditional mechanical keys and are the reason they are usually in the hands of an expert professional auto locksmith. The cost of a car key fob varies depending on the model and type of key, but it is usually between $85 to $400. This includes the cost of labor to program the key fob and the cost of any needed replacement parts.
Car key fobs are more complex due to the fact that they use software that interacts with the computer onboard of the car. The software blocks access to unauthorized users by only allowing the key to function only if it's been programmed to the car in question. This means that if your keys replaced, you'll need have the new key fob programed to the car in order for it to work.
This is done by using a tool for programming keys for cars that are compatible with the vehicle's brand. This tool lets the locksmith connect to the OBD port (OBD) in the vehicle and then enter an programming mode. The key programming tool could either be an inexpensive handheld device or a more expensive one that can perform various things that go beyond key programming (like reading and cloning eeprom files in the ECU).
While some may try to program their own keys with these tools, it's something best left to a professional auto locksmith. Unless you're familiar with all the aspects of the various software systems, it's easy to accidentally change settings that could damage the vehicle. It's crucial to remember that an experienced professional will assist you in avoiding these issues.
On-Board programming
If your vehicle is of a certain age, you'll still have a traditional metal key to open the doors and turn off the ignition. However, modern cars are equipped with transponder chips that need to be recognized by the car's computer system to allow it to start. This is an additional layer of security that prevents car thieves from starting a car stolen and driving off with the car. A locksmith who is certified will have the tools and software needed to create a key that will be compatible with your car's security system.
First, your locksmith will need to get a blank key that is compatible with the model and make of your vehicle. Once your locksmith has the key, he'll connect the programming scanner to the diagnostic port of your vehicle. This will place the car into an exclusive programming mode that will allow the locksmith to add a new key into the system.
The key scanner is programmed to communicate with the computer in the car to send a code. The computer will recognize the code and add it to the list of keys that are approved. In some cases the scanner will also delete lost or stolen keys.
EEPROM programming is another method that can be used to program new car keys. It is more complex and requires a deep understanding of electronic systems. This is why it should be left to a professional who has extensive expertise working on these types of systems.
Onboard programming is the fastest way for a locksmith to program a new key. It can take as little as one minute if everything car key programming is completed correctly. If the key is not in good working order or the procedure isn't being followed exactly, the process could be as long as half an hour.
There are many key programmer scanners available that support different vehicle models and makes. The Smart Pro and the Autel IM608 Pro are both very popular with locksmiths since they support a broad range of vehicles. No system can program every vehicle. These devices are also expensive. It is best to buy one that will receive regular updates from the manufacturer when new technologies are introduced. In the event that your machine is not updated, it will become obsolete quickly.