Car Key Programming

It is essential to program your car key in order to ensure that the replacement key fobs you purchase will work with your vehicle. The key will turn on the ignition but not start the engine or unlock doors without this.

You can easily and quickly program your new keys by using locksmiths with the appropriate equipment. Learn more about this process and why it is important.

Self-Programming

In the years prior to the 21st Century car key technology evolved from mechanical keys and became an amalgamation of electronic and physical protocols to prevent theft. These keys are now equipped with a microchip which must be programmed in order to connect to the vehicle's electronic system. The best method to reprogram your car keys is by contacting a professional locksmith who has access the appropriate equipment. Many cars, especially high-end ones, allow only dealers to make new keys.

If you'd like to attempt this yourself, the procedure is different for each manufacturer. In general, you'll need to place the spare key into the ignition and then manipulate it (according to the instructions in your owner’s manual) until the car enters the programming mode. This only lasts for only a few minutes before the car exits the programming mode.

You'll have to repeat this process for each key you wish to program once your car is in programming mode. The instructions in the owner's manual are specific to the type of key and model you want to program, since some models have additional security features that have to be enabled (for instance a passcode required to enter certain programming modes).

Some models also require a specific code that you can only get through the dealer at a cost. This code protects against "skimming" in the event that thieves try to read the data on your key through the OBD2 ports to steal the vehicle.

It's a great way to save money, however if the key isn't set up correctly, it won't be able to unlock or start your vehicle. J.C. A trusted auto repair service such as J.C. Automotive Service, Inc. is equipped to carry out computer programming and key reprogramming, making sure that your vehicle is secure. Call us now to begin.

Key Programmers

You might wonder if it's possible for you to reprogram your key when you've lost it or are replacing them. It depends on the manufacturer, but the majority of vehicles require you to engage an auto locksmith or dealer to get the new key inserted into the vehicle's system. This requires reprogramming the new key's transponder to match the settings of the car that was originally programmed.

While some vehicles allow you to do this on your own but most require a professional or dealer to use a tool that is able to connect to the vehicle and read the programming information from the ECU. Then, the key is modified to match the car's setting and you can use it as an ordinary key.

There are many types of car key programmers. Some are specific to specific models and makes and others are universal and work with a wide range of automobiles. The majority of these devices have an LCD display with a few buttons to enter programming modes. You can plug the device into an OBD-II connector to begin reading and programm the new key.

Professionals can program a brand new car key in just several seconds, but some vehicles require more time and complex procedures to reprogram keys properly. For example, some modern vehicles require a specific code that only the car dealer can access and use to access the immobilizer's systems. In these instances, you should leave the task to professionals in order to ensure that the system is not damaged and ending up without a way to start the vehicle.

If you're in search of a car key programmers that will help you save time and money, look into the Smart Pro from Advanced Diagnostics. The Smart Pro is an upgrade from the previous generation TCode Pro and offers top-of-the-line programming software that can be used on the majority of vehicles that are available. The company is recognized for the support they provide to their products and the availability of up-to-date software.

Key Fobs

Modern day key fobs provide a host of convenience and security benefits. They replace or supplement traditional car keys and control more than only locking doors. car key programming can start the engine, activate the alarm and perform various other functions.


The key fob uses radio signals to communicate with a receiver that is installed in the vehicle. When you press the button on the keyfob it transmits the code to the receiver which then performs the desired function. Commercial building owners also make use of key fobs as they allow them to integrate them into an overall system of access control. This allows them to track who is entering and leaving and also stop fobs that were stolen or lost.

Key fobs, just like any other electronic device, may malfunction. They can break or lose their signal if they are jostled in pockets and purses. And although they are built to endure many things, they're not indestructible; after all, they're no more than metal and plastic.

If your key fobs don't working, you may have to replace the battery. Be sure to use the correct battery and consult your owner's manual to learn how to replace it correctly. Also, be sure to follow any additional steps to recalibration or reprogramming that could apply.

Another reason for failed fobs is simple wear and tear. They can crack or wear out if they are dropped, smashed against objects, and jostled around in purses and pockets. Oftentimes it is a simple and affordable fix is all that is required to get your key fobs back running.

If you are looking for an enclosure to house a key fob, or you want to upgrade an existing enclosure, FB Series enclosures offer the ideal solution. They are the perfect size for a PCB and could be printed with high-quality images, or have extra cutouts that are created using CNC machining. They're also made to fit coin-cell batteries, which are often used in keyfobs. Contact us for a quotation when you require a key fob case which is made to order.

Keyless Entry

Keyless entry lets you unlock your car and begin it without the need to insert a physical key. It makes use of wireless signals to communicate with the car's system inside, and it also lets you to control different features in the car like climate control or music systems.

Modern keyless entry systems use rolling code technology to guard against hacking and other security breaches. However, it's important to remember that even this technology has its limitations. Thieves could use the technique known as "replay attack" to send a message that is recorded by the receiver of the car. Once this message is recorded by the receiver, a rogue device could send the same message again to the vehicle's receiver and gain access to the property.

Depending on your vehicle's model and make it could be possible to program new keys yourself or you might need to have an auto locksmith assist you. Certain car manufacturers offer an onboard program specifically designed for them and others require you have an advanced programer attached to the OBD2 connector.

The most popular method to program new car keys is to put the key fob in the ignition and turning it multiple times in a particular sequence. When the car is placed in "programming mode," one or more buttons on the fob are pressed to send the digital identification code to the computer. The computer then saves the code and takes the car from the programming mode.

Some manufacturers require that you have a special advanced software programer to program key fobs. These are expensive and hard to use by the typical person. It is best to leave the work to an automotive locksmith or dealer.

To begin the process of programming a new keyless entry vehicle key, get into your vehicle on the driver's side and shut all doors, excluding the driver's door. This will stop the system from locking your doors while you attempt to program the key. After that, with the key in the ignition and the rest of the keys you wish to program nearby, push and hold the button on the fob that you want to activate until the warning lights flash twice.