Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Modern cars need some form of key programming. Depending on the car's maker and model, the process could be as simple as programming onboard using a spare working key or as complex as EEPROM or OBD2 programming.
The majority of US and Asian auto manufacturers have a programming protocol that they share with auto tool makers, so they can develop software or hardware for automotive locksmiths.
Transponder Chips
Most newer cars use transponder chips to prevent car theft. These are tiny computer microchips which emit low-level radio waves. They have a unique serial number which authenticates your key when you insert it into the ignition barrel. If your vehicle doesn't recognize the signal, the engine will be shut down. This technology has been an immense success in stopping auto theft. It also saves many car owners a significant amount of money because they don't have to replace their vehicles.
The fundamental idea behind the transponder system is to make it impossible for thieves to open the doors of your car without the proper key. In the past, thieves would simply push your car's ignition switch into the "on" position using an ordinary screwdriver or make use of hot-wires to bypass the system altogether. Transponder chips have dramatically decreased the likelihood of theft.
When you place the transponder key into the ignition the signal is picked up by an antenna hidden around the barrel. This antenna is programmed with the frequency of the chip within the key. The onboard computer in the car will then recognise the key as being valid and will allow fuel flow and power the starter to begin the engine.
Based on the manufacturer, some vehicles will only recognise the specific type of transponder chip. This is why it is crucial to make sure that your automotive locksmith has the right equipment to program your vehicle's keys and fobs properly.
A good automotive locksmith will have a multi-vehicle programming tool that can be used with different models and brands of cars. This is a cheaper solution than buying individual tools for every brand of vehicle. They are not as common however, there are specialist automotive key programming tools that can only work on a particular type of vehicle. The best automotive locksmiths will have the proper tools to deal with any kind of vehicle, so make sure you find a reputable company that has these types of tools.
Key FOBs
Key FOBs are programmeable transponder chips that allow your vehicle to open doors and start the engine with a push button ignition. You can also use the buttons to activate features such as trunk releases, door locks or fuel flap controls. Certain fobs can be controlled by pressing buttons. For instance an "smart key" which allows you to summon your car to tight parking spaces, such as the Genesis GV60, Tesla or Genesis GV60.
While some replacement keys can be programmed with the aid of a user's guide but you'll usually need an automotive locksmith to get a brand new one programmed if the one you have isn't working. This is because a professional has the right equipment and access to the tools for programming needed to connect your car's computer to the OBD (OBD) port beneath the steering wheel.
The majority of key fobs are equipped with security features to make it harder for attackers duplicate and copy the signals they transmit. Some key fobs have pseudo-random code generators which generate a different unlock code each 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 some cases, you can buy an alternative keyfob from a dealership or another retailer. The locksmith you choose to use will then program it to work with your vehicle. This is because the majority of major US and Asian auto manufacturers share their key-fob programming protocols with third-party companies that make the tools used by locksmiths for programming their customers' keys.
Certain aftermarket key fobs can be advertised as compatible with any vehicle. However, automotive locksmiths recommend against using them because they're likely to function poorly or even not at all. They suggest buying fobs designed specifically for your vehicle so that they work correctly and are less prone to issues such as interference or incompatibility. This will save money over time, as you avoid costly repairs or replacements for your fobs.
Tool for Programming Vehicle Manufacturers'
The automotive industry has made great advances in the last couple of decades. Today's cars are computer-driven. One of the most important components of this technology is a transponder chipset that requires to be programmed to the vehicle by an auto locksmith or dealer/mechanic order to work. Key fobs with embedded security features that stop hot-wiring (like in a film) and the car won't start without the proper key.
These key fobs are a bit more complex than your mechanical keys and are the reason they are usually in the hands of a skilled professional auto locksmith. The cost of the car key fob can vary dependent on the type and model of key, but it is typically between $85 to $400. This includes the labor to program the key fob as well as the costs for any necessary replacement parts.
To make the process more difficult to make the process more complicated, these key fobs for cars use a special software system to work with the car's onboard computer. The software prevents unauthorised access by only allowing keys programmed specifically for a particular car to function. If you replace your keys, you'll have to program the new key fob into the car in order for it to function.
The most common method to accomplish this is using the car key programming tool that is compatible with the brand of the vehicle. This tool allows locksmiths to connect to the OBD port on the vehicle and then enter the programming mode. The key programming device could be a handheld device that's cheap or sophisticated and capable of doing more than just programming keys (like reading the eeprom file in the ECU).
Although some people might attempt to program their own keys using these tools, this is something best left to an experienced auto locksmith. It is easy to make mistakes with the software systems if you aren't aware of the intricacies. This could lead to damage. The most important thing to remember is that a skilled professional can assist you in avoiding these problems.
On-Board programming
If your car is older than you to be considered old-fashioned, you'll have a traditional metal key to open the doors and turn off the ignition. Modern vehicles have transponders that need to be acknowledged and accepted by the computer system in order to start. This is a further security measure to prevent thieves from starting and then driving off with a stolen car. A locksmith certified will have the tools and software necessary to program a key that will work in your car's system.
Your locksmith will first need to acquire an uncut key that is compatible with your vehicle's make and model. Once the key is in hand the locksmith will connect the scanner that is used for programming to your car's diagnostic port. This will place the car into an exclusive programming mode which will allow the locksmith to add a new key to the system.
To accomplish this, the key programmer scanner will communicate with the car's computer system to transmit an exact code. The computer will be able to recognize the code and add it to the list of keys that are approved. In some instances the scanner may also be able to remove keys that are stolen or lost from the system.
Programming EEPROM 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's best left to a professional who has a lot of experience working with these kinds of systems.
Locksmiths can program keys quickly by using onboard programming. It can take less than a minute when everything is completed correctly. If the key isn't in the right condition or the procedure isn't followed precisely, the procedure could take up to half an hour.
There are a variety of key programmer scanners available that can be used with different vehicle models and makes. The Smart Pro and the Autel IM608 Pro are both very popular amongst locksmiths because they can be used with a variety of automobile models. However, no system can be programmed for every single vehicle that exists. Furthermore, these systems are expensive. It's best to purchase one that will receive regular updates from the manufacturer as new technologies are developed. If not, your computer will soon become obsolete.