Automotive Locksmith Key Programming
Modern cars need some kind of key programming. Depending on your vehicle's model and manufacturer the process could be as simple as using a spare key to programme the computer onboard, or as complex as EEPROM or OBD2 programming.
Most US and Asian car makers use the same programming protocols as auto tool manufacturers to allow them to develop tools and hardware for locksmiths in the automotive industry to use.
Transponder Chips
Most newer cars use transponder chips to prevent car theft. These are tiny computer microchips that emit radio waves of low-level. They have a unique 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 saved car owners a great amount of money since they don't have to purchase new cars.
The basic idea behind the transponder system is to make it difficult for thieves to get into your car without the proper key. In the past, car thieves would use the flat screwdriver to push the ignition switch of your car into the "on" mode, or hot-wire it in order to evade the system. Transponder chips have dramatically decreased the likelihood of theft.
When you place the transponder key into the ignition, the signal is received by an antenna hidden around the barrel. The antenna is programmed to match the frequency of the chip within the key. The car's computer onboard will recognize that the key is legitimate and allow the fuel to flow, then power up the starter, or even begin it.
Depending on the manufacturer certain vehicles can only accept certain types of transponder chip. This is why it's important to ensure that your automotive locksmith has the appropriate equipment to program your car's keys and fobs properly.
A good automotive locksmith will possess a multi-vehicle programing tool that can be used on many different automobile models and manufacturers. This is a more cost-effective solution than buying individual tools for every brand of vehicle. There are also specialised automotive key programmer devices that can only be used on specific models of vehicles however, they are less common. The best automotive locksmiths will have the proper tools to work on any type of vehicle, so make sure you find a reputable company with these kinds of tools.
Key FOBs
Key FOBs are programmable transponder chip devices that allow your vehicle to unlock doors and begin the engine with the push of a button ignition. You can also use the buttons to activate features like trunk releases, door locks or fuel flap controls. Certain fobs can be controlled with the press of buttons. For instance an "smart key" that allows you summon your car to tight parking spaces, such as the Genesis GV60, Tesla or Genesis GV60.
You can program some spare key fobs by yourself with the help from the user guide, however you will need to call an automotive locksmith if the one you have has stopped working. This is because a professional has the specialized equipment and access to the programming tools required to connect your car's computer through the on-board diagnostics (OBD) port beneath the steering wheel.
Most key fobs today include security features that make it difficult for attackers to duplicate or duplicate the signals they transmit. They include pseudo-random sequence generators that generate a new unlock code every time you press the button on your key fob. This is to prevent attackers from capturing and playing back the unlock signal in order to gain access to your vehicle.
In most instances you can buy a replacement key fob from the dealer or other retailer and have it programmable by a locksmith for your vehicle to work with your particular vehicle. This is because the majority of major US and Asian auto manufacturers use the same key-fob programming protocol with the third-party firms who produce the tools used by locksmiths for programming their customer's keys.
While some of the aftermarket key fobs are advertised as compatible with all vehicles, most automotive locksmiths don't recommend using them since they will likely only work poorly or not at all. They suggest purchasing fobs that are designed specifically for your vehicle so that they work correctly and are less prone to issues like interference or incompatibility. This will save money over time, as you avoid costly repairs or replacements of your fobs.
Toolkits for Programming Vehicles of Manufacturers
The automobile industry has made significant advancements in the past few decades. Today's vehicles are computer-driven. A transponder chip is an important part of this technology. It has to be programmed by a locksmith mechanic or dealer to function. These key fobs have built-in security features that stop hot-wiring (like in a movie) and the car will not start if you don't have the correct key.
Key fobs are a bit more complex than the mechanical keys and that's why you'll typically find them in the hands of a skilled, 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 labor required to program the key fob as well as the costs for any necessary replacement parts.
To make the process more difficult, these car key fobs use a special software system to connect to the car's onboard computer. The software blocks unauthorized access by permitting the key to function only if it's been programmed to the car in question. This means that if you need your keys replaced, you'll have to have the new key fob programmed to the car in order to function.
This is done by using a programming tool for keys for cars that are compatible with the vehicle's brand. This tool allows locksmiths to connect to the OBD port of the vehicle and then enter the programming mode. The key programming device can be an handheld device that is affordable or sophisticated and capable of doing more than just program keys (like reading the eeprom files in the ECU).
Some people try to program their keys themselves using these tools. However, this is best left to an experienced auto locksmith. If you're not familiar with the ins and outs of the various software systems, it's possible to make a mistake and alter settings that could cause damage to the vehicle. It's important to remember that a professional with experience will assist you in avoiding these issues.
On-Board programming
If your car is old enough, you'll still have a traditional key made of metal that you can use to open the doors and turn over the ignition. However, modern cars are equipped with a transponder chip that must be recognized by the computer system of the car in order to start. This is an additional layer of security that prevents car thieves from stealing a car and driving off with the car. A licensed locksmith will have the right tools and software to create a key that works with the security system in your car.
First, your locksmith will need to get a blank key that is compatible with the model and make of your car. Once your locksmith has the key, he'll connect the programming scanner to the diagnostic port of your vehicle. This will place the vehicle into a specific programming mode, which will allow locksmiths to connect the key to the system.
To do this, the key programming scanner will communicate with the car's computer system to transmit a particular code. The computer will recognize the code and add it to the list of approved keys. In some instances the scanner will be able to delete lost or stolen keys from the system.
You can also program new keys with the EEPROM. It is more complex and requires a thorough understanding of electronic systems. This is why it should be left to a more info professional who has years of experience working on these types of systems.
Locksmiths can program keys quickly with onboard programming. When everything is done correctly it could take just one minute. If the key is not in good working order or the procedure isn't followed exactly, the process could take up to half an hour.
There are a variety of key programmer scanners on the market that can be used with different vehicle models and brands. Both the Smart Pro and Autel IM608 Pro have become very popular among locksmiths due to their wide range of vehicle models. However, neither will be able to program every vehicle in existence. They are also expensive. It's a good idea to purchase a computer that is updated regularly as the manufacturer develops new technologies. Your computer's programming software will soon become obsolete if you do not take this step.