How to Program Keys For Cars Reprogramming the car key typically is the job of a locksmith specialist. They can take your old working key and use a specific tool to program a new one for your vehicle. This involves the reprogramming of a blank chip on your replacement key so that it is compatible with the current settings of your vehicle. Certain manufacturers make it simple, while other require an expert locksmith or dealer. Self-Programming As the technology of cars has advanced over time, the ignition keys have also evolved too. There are no more simple mechanical-only keys that could be manufactured at a hardware store for under $10. The newer models have computers with improved anti-theft protection. The cars require a transponder chip-integrated key to be programmed by a professional locksmith car dealer or mechanic in order to function properly. There are many types of car key programming that can be done by locksmiths who are professionals. Some are extremely complicated and may require sophisticated tools. These tools are not accessible to the general public and are only used by professionals. This kind of car key programming is referred to as EEPROM Programming and requires soldering, electronic expertise, and a lot of time. Other kinds of key programming can be performed by anyone. They can be done by using the onboard diagnostic port, which can be accessed by a specific tool for key-fob programming. This procedure can be carried out by a professional locksmith with the help of an online guide or the car's owner's manual. The majority of locksmiths who are professionals can program a new or replacement car key fob fast and precisely. This is the ideal option for vehicle owners as they are able to provide a wide range of services. They can provide a competitive cost and peace of mind knowing that the replacement key will continue to function. It is important to note that many vehicles will only accept one programmed key for their system. If you want to save some money, it's a great idea to get an additional key fob that works and have it programmed. You can be assured that the new key works and is programmed for your vehicle. You will have to pay the dealer for programming and replacement keys if you don't. Key Programmers Modern vehicles often require a key programming process to initialize the vehicle's system and allow the vehicle to start. In some instances the key needs to be programmed by an auto locksmith or a dealer. This is because the key may not function correctly, or it will not start the car in any way. This is because the new key has not been programmed to the car's system. This can be quite expensive. This is why it's a great idea to always have two working keys for a modern car and to have the replacement key programmed when necessary. A keyprogrammer is a device that recodes the transponder chip into an entirely new mechanical or key fob key. It also can clone data from an existing key to create duplicates. These are handheld devices that connect to a car's On Board Diagnostics (OBD port). They come with diagnostic software that enables them to communicate with the computer as well as an interface that works bidirectionally with the immobilizer system. There are many various kinds of keyprogrammers on the market and they are available in all sizes and shapes. Some keyprogrammers are cheap and others may cost thousands of dollars. Some are made for specific automobiles and provide advanced diagnostics of the car's electronic system. If you want to program the new key into your vehicle, consult the owner's manual to learn the procedure. Certain manufacturers employ proprietary software that only permits dealers to create new keys. Other manufacturers make it simple for anyone to do. If you are not able to program the new key by yourself or by yourself, you can ask your dealer to do it, but it will cost you a lot. Another option is to buy a keyprogrammer online. They are less expensive than going to a dealership but they aren't inexpensive. Before buying one do some research on the seller. Some aren't trustworthy and could cause damage to your vehicle. Transponder Chips If your car was built within the last 20 years, it is likely that it has a transponder inside of it. This is a little plastic piece on the back of your key that contains an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chip with a unique code for your specific vehicle. The chip emits an unintentional radio signal when it is activated by an electromagnetic field. http://telleylive.com/members/seatplane05/activity/89082/ is then received by a specific antenna that is attached to the ignition barrel. The computer system of the vehicle is then able to verify that the key's transponder chip is the right one for your car. This prevents the vehicle from starting by hot-wiring, or by tampering. The chip in the key also confirms that you are the legal owner of the vehicle. This will help reduce the possibility of theft from your vehicle. Regular transponder keys are designed like regular metal keys with a plastic top. The chip is housed in the plastic portion of the key, and there are a few different cuts that can be found on these keys: a standard cut laser cut (also called a sidewinder key), or a Ford Tibbe key. A circuit inside the induction coil emits signals when the transponder is placed in the ignition barrel. The signal will be absorbed by the chip, causing it to send a signal back to the car. If the computer inside the car detects the signal as being correct, it will disable vehicle immobilizer, allowing the engine to start. If the vehicle doesn't recognize the transponder signal as the proper one, it will keep the engine from starting and will alert you by flashing its lights and sounding siren. This function is designed to discourage individuals from tampering with the vehicle. However, it is not an absolute security measure. A skilled and skilled criminal can still get around this system by using a specific device that intercepts the signal. As you can see, there are quite a few advantages to getting transponder keys. This is something that all car owners should consider if they want to safeguard their investment and reduce the risk of theft. Key Fobs Key fobs today offer more than locking and unlock doors. They can also start your vehicle remotely, make chirping noises to aid in finding cars, or turn on the heated steering wheel. These extra features can make it difficult for you to find your car keys. Key fobs communicate with each other and with the car through radio frequencies that are transmitted through an antenna in the center of the key. The transmission is encrypted, which helps stop others from stealing and replicating the signal. There are many ways to program a key fob based on the model and make. It is possible to do this yourself, but the majority of newer cars require that you visit a locksmith shop or a professional to program a replacement or an additional fob. When you hit the button on a key fob, the microchip inside transmits a code to the car's radio that it is linked to. The receiver compared the information with the permitted signals stored in the key fob and then locks or opens the car's doors. If the data does not match, the car will not be allowed to drive. Once the car is linked with a particular fob, it will only accept signals from that device. As a result, other fobs will not work with the vehicle even if they have the same appearance. This helps to protect the integrity of the vehicle's computer system and to prevent unauthorized key fobs from gaining control of the vehicle. Most newer car dealerships will only deal with cars that have original fobs, or genuine replacements sold by the manufacturer. It is because the only place with the experience to design an appropriate replacement fob is a dealer's service department. However, some fobs from the aftermarket -- usually those for older models that have less sophisticated systems can be programmed by the consumer without the need for dealers.