How to Program Keys For Cars
Locksmiths or automotive specialists are typically the ones who re-program keys to cars. They can take your existing key and use a special tool to program a new key for your vehicle.
This involves changing the chip inside your replacement key to ensure that it is compatible with the current settings on your vehicle. Certain manufacturers make it simple, while other require a locksmith or dealer.
Self-Programming
As car technology has evolved over the years, the ignition keys have developed too. The days of the simple mechanical keys that you could make at a hardware shop for less than $10 are gone. Newer models are equipped with computers that are enhanced anti-theft protection. In order to work properly, these cars require a transponder chip-integrated key be programmed into the vehicle by a certified locksmith or mechanic/car dealer.
There are several types of car key programming that can be accomplished by professional locksmiths. Certain are complicated and require sophisticated tools. These tools are not generally accessible to the general public and are only used by professionals. This kind of key programming is called EEPROM Programming. It requires soldering skills, electronic knowledge and a lot of time.
Other types of key programming can be done by anyone. They are typically done using the diagnostics port on the car, that can be accessed using a special key-fob-programming tool. Locksmiths can execute this method with the help of an online guide and the owner's manual.
Professional locksmiths can program a new or replacement car key fob quickly. This is the most efficient option for car owners since they are able to provide a full range of services. They also provide an affordable price and ensure that the replacement key will work correctly.
It's important to remember that a majority of vehicles can only accept one programmed key for their system. So, if you're looking to save money, it might be better to purchase a functioning spare key fob and have it programmed by an auto locksmith. You can be certain that the new key works and is programmable for your car. In the event that it doesn't, you'll need to pay the dealer for replacement keys and programming services.
Key Programmers
Modern automobiles require a key-programming method to set up their systems and then start the vehicle. In some instances, the key must be set up by the dealer or an auto locksmith. This is because the key could not function properly, or it will not start the vehicle at all. The reason for this is that the new key has not been programmed into the vehicle's system. This can be very costly. This is why it's a great idea to always have two keys working for a modern car, so you can get the replacement key programmed if necessary.
A keyprogrammer can recode the transponder chip of the new mechanical key or key fob. It can also clone information from an existing key to make duplicates. These are handheld devices that connect to a car's On Board Diagnostics (OBD port). They come with diagnostic software, which allows them to communicate with a computer. They also have a bidirectional interface for working with an immobilizer system.
There are a variety of keyprogrammers available on the market. They are available in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors. Some are cheap and others are sophisticated and can cost thousands of dollars. Certain models are specifically designed for automobiles and offer advanced diagnostics of the car's electronic system.
Check out the owner's manual to learn how to program keys for your vehicle. Some manufacturers use proprietary software that only allows the dealership to create new keys. Other manufacturers make it easy for anyone to do.
If you are not able to program the new key yourself or by yourself, you can request your dealer to do it, but it will cost you a lot. Another option is to purchase an online keyprogrammer. They are cheaper than visiting a dealer but they aren't expensive. Before you purchase one make sure you research the seller. Some aren't trustworthy and could cause damage to your vehicle.
Transponder Chips
Transponder chips can be found in cars that were manufactured in the last 20 years. It's a tiny plastic thing inside the head of your key that contains a RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chip with a unique code that is specific to your specific vehicle.
When activated by an electro-magnetic field the chip emits a low level signal. The signal is then received by a specific antenna attached to the ignition barrel. This allows the computer in your vehicle system to confirm that the transponder chip in the key is the right one for your specific vehicle.
This is what prevents doing hot-wiring or altering the ignition system of your vehicle to turn it on. The chip inside the key also verifies that you are the genuine owner of the vehicle. This can reduce car theft.
Regular transponder keys are shaped like regular keys, but with a plastic top. The chip is inside the plastic portion of these keys. There are various cuts: a standard cut, Laser cut (also called a sidewinder or Ford Tibbe) and a Ford Tibbe.
A circuit inside the induction coil emits an electrical signal when the transponder is put into ignition barrel. The signal is taken up by the chip, which sends a signal to the vehicle. If programming car key as correct, it will disable vehicle immobilizer to allow the engine start.
If the vehicle doesn't recognize the transponder as the correct signal, it will not start the engine and notify you via flashing lights and a siren. This feature is designed to discourage people from tampering with the vehicle. However, it is not an unbreakable security measure. A skilled and determined thief can still get around this system with a specially designed device that intercepts the signal.
As you can see there are quite a number of benefits to having a transponder key. Every car owner should take this into consideration in order to safeguard their investment and minimize the chance of theft.
Key Fobs
Key fobs today can offer more than locking and unlock doors. They can also turn on the vehicle from a distance, make chirping sounds to aid in finding cars, or turn on the heated steering wheel. These additional features could make it difficult to find your car keys.
Key fobs communicate with each other and with the car through radio frequencies which are transmitted by a small antenna located in the center of the key. This communication is encrypted, which helps keep others from stealing and re-transmitting the signal.
There are several ways to program a key fob based on the make and model. You can sometimes do this yourself, but the majority of newer vehicles require a locksmith shop or a professional to program a replacement or an additional fob.
When you press the button on a key fob the microchip sends a signal to the receiver inside the car with which it is linked. The receiver compared this information with the 'allowed' signals in the fob and then either opens or locks the door. If the data doesn't match, a chirping sound is heard and the car isn't allowed to operate.
Once the car is associated with a particular fob, it only accepts signals from the device. Other fobs won't work with the car, despite the fact that they appear like. This helps to protect the integrity of the vehicle's computer system and to prevent unauthorized key fobs from gaining control over the vehicle.
Most newer car dealerships will only accept cars with original fobs or genuine replacements sold by the manufacturer. This is due to the fact that preparing an appropriate replacement fob requires technical and security skills which can only be obtained in the dealer service department. Certain aftermarket fobs, typically those from older models that have less sophisticated systems can be programmed without the need for a dealership.