How to Program Keys For Cars
Reprogramming the car key typically is the work of a locksmith or automotive specialist. They could take your old key and use a specific tool to program a new key for your vehicle.
This involves reprogramming a blank chip in your replacement key to ensure that it matches the current settings of your vehicle. Some manufacturers make this easy however others require a locksmith or dealer.
Self-programming
The ignition keys have developed in tandem with the advancements in car technology. The days of basic mechanical keys you could buy from the hardware shop for less than $10 have gone. The newer models have computers with improved anti-theft protection. These cars require a transponder-chip-integrated key to be programmed by a professional locksmith, car dealer or mechanic for proper operation.
Professional locksmiths are able to perform a variety of different types of programming for keys to cars. Some are extremely complicated and may require sophisticated tools. These tools aren't generally accessible to the general public and are utilized only by professionals. This kind of programming for car keys is referred to as EEPROM Programming and requires soldering, electronic knowledge and a significant amount of time.
Other types of car key programming are much easier and can be done by the average person. They are typically accomplished by using the onboard diagnostics port, which is accessible with the key-fob-programming device. This method can be done by a trained locksmith using an online guide or an owner's manual.
Most professional locksmiths can program a brand new or replacement car key fob quickly and accurately. This is the best option for car owners as they are able to provide a full range of services. They also can provide an affordable price and peace of mind that the new key will work properly.
Remember that most automobiles only accept one programmed car key. If you want to save money, it's a great idea to buy an additional key fob that functions and then have it programmed. This way, you will be certain that the new key is programmed for your vehicle and that it works. If not, you'll have to pay the dealer for replacement keys and programming services.
Key Programmers
Modern vehicles often require a key programming procedure to initialize the vehicle's system and allow the vehicle to begin. In many cases the key needs to be programmed by the auto locksmith or dealer. The key might not function properly or not start the car in any way. This is because the key has not yet been programmed into the car's system. This could be costly. This is why it's a great idea to always have two keys that work for modern vehicles, so you can get the replacement key programmed if necessary.
A keyprogrammer is a device that can recode the transponder chip in the form of a new mechanical or key fob key. It also can clone data from an existing key to make duplicates. These devices are handheld units that connect to the car's On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port. They have diagnostic software that allows them to communicate with computers as well as a bidirectional interface for working with the immobilizer system.
There are a myriad of types of keyprogrammers available on the market. They are available in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors. Some are affordable, while others are very sophisticated and could cost thousands of dollars. Certain models are specifically designed for vehicles and can provide advanced diagnostics of the vehicle's electronic system.
Consult your owner's guide to learn how to program a key for your vehicle. Certain manufacturers have proprietary software that allows only dealers to make new keys. Other manufacturers make it simple for anyone to do.
If you are not able to program the new key yourself and you are unable to do it, then request your dealer to do it, however it will cost you a lot. You can also buy a keyprogrammer from the internet. They're less expensive than visiting a dealer but they aren't expensive. Be sure to look up the seller before buying one - some are not reliable and can damage your car.
Transponder Chips
If your car was built within the last 20 years, chances are it has a transponder inside of it. This is a little piece of plastic inside the head of your key which contains a RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chip with a unique code for the specific vehicle you own.
The chip emits an unintentional radio signal when it is activated by an electromagnetic field. This signal is then absorbed by the special antenna that is fitted around the barrel that controls your ignition in your vehicle. This allows the computer in your vehicle system to verify that the transponder chip inside the key is the right one for the car you have.
This prevents the vehicle from being started through either hot-wiring or by altering the key. The chip inside the car key confirms that the owner is the one who owns the vehicle. This will help reduce the possibility of theft from your vehicle.
Transponder keys appear like regular keys made of metal, but with a plastic cap. The chip itself is housed in the plastic portion of the key and there are different cuts that can be found on these keys: a regular cut, a laser cut (also known as a sidewinder key) or Ford Tibbe key.
When automotive key programming is placed in the ignition barrel, a circuit inside of the induction coil will send out the signal. The signal is taken up by the chip, which sends a signal to the vehicle. If the car's computer recognizes this signal as being the correct one, it will turn off the immobilizer on the vehicle and allow the engine to begin.
If the vehicle doesn't recognize the transponder as a valid signal, it will not start the engine and will notify you via flashing lights and an alarm. This is designed to discourage people from attempting to hack into the vehicle, but it isn't a foolproof security measure. A skilled and determined criminal may still be able to get around this system using a special device to intercept the signal.
As you can see there are quite number of benefits to having a transponder key. Every car owner should take this into consideration if they wish to protect their investment and reduce theft risk.
Key Fobs
Key fobs today offer more than locking and unlock doors. They can also turn on the car remotely, emit chirping sounds to help locate the car or turn on the heated steering wheel. These extra features can make it difficult for you to locate your car keys.
Key fobs communicate with each other and the car using radio frequencies which are transmitted through a small antenna located in the center of the key. The signal is encrypted to prevent others from intercepting or replicating the signal.
There are several ways to program a key fob based on the make and model. It is possible to do this yourself, however most modern vehicles require a locksmith shop or a professional to program a replacement or additional fob.
When you press the button on a key fob the microchip transmits an indication to the receiver inside the car with which it is linked. The receiver compared the information with the permitted signals stored in the key fob and then it opens or closes the car's doors. If the information isn't in line, a chirping sound is heard and the car isn't able to operate.
When a car is connected with a particular fob, it will only accept signals from that device. This means that other fobs will not work with the vehicle, even though they appear similar. This protects the integrity of the car's computer system and prevent the use of unauthorized key fobs to gain control over the vehicle.
The majority of newer dealerships will only deal with cars with original fobs, or genuine replacements supplied by the manufacturer. The reason for this is that the only place with the experience to design the replacement fob is the service department of the dealer. Certain aftermarket fobs, typically those for older models with less sophisticated systems can be programmed without the need for a dealer.