Reprogramming Car Keys
Transponder keys are believed to be more secure for vehicles and more difficult to copy by thieves. However, keys may need to be reprogrammed when it becomes damaged or lost.
You can change the programming of your key fobs at home, however you should be aware of the correct procedure. For the best results, you must have the following items:
Keys
Most modern vehicles require some kind of transponder fob or transponder keys to operate, providing security and anti-theft protection. The keys must be programmed to the specific car and its systems by a certified locksmith or dealer. It's costly to replace them if they're lost, so it's best to have spares in your possession. You will also find replacement key fobs on various websites and in a variety of brick-and-mortar automotive shops. But how do you know that the new key fob you bought is genuine? Are you able to tell if the unit has been programmed to work with a different vehicle or if it could be programmed differently?
If you're looking to program a new key, the first step is to ensure that your car is on and running. Insert the key you want to reprogram into the ignition without turning it. You have only a few seconds before the system will reset all commands and leaves the programming mode. It is essential to be quick and don't wait between each step. Turn off the engine to stop this. You can test the car's system by turning the key to the "on" position and back to the "off" position. There should be a chime to indicate that the process was successful. The door locks will cycle.
Some newer vehicles use rolling key technology to prevent thieves from using stolen keys to start the car. This feature is still vulnerable to a technique dubbed replay attack, which allows thieves to record the signal from the key fob of the car, then reproduce it to open the car. To counter this, manufacturers have added an additional security feature known as the CAN bus protocol to prevent attacks on hacking.
Certain manufacturers have a unique encryption on their keys that cannot be decoded using a simple program. These kinds of cars will need to be programmed by a professional, and you should only try this only if you've worked with electronic devices. It's a good idea to refer to the owner's manual of your vehicle or look up the manufacturer on the internet, since the steps differ based on car model.
Transponder chips
Car keys with transponder chips need special reconfiguration to work. Any hardware store can offer you a new car key, but the real challenge is in integrating it with your car. The key you reprogrammed needs to match the specific identification number of the vehicle, or it won't start the engine.
Transponder chips are a typical feature of modern cars and are designed to prevent car theft. The chip is a microcircuit that transmits a radio frequency signals when the key is placed in the ignition. The car then recognizes the signal and then starts the engine if it is in line with the original signal that was programmed into the vehicle. The vehicle is also programmed to stop if it detects an invalid frequency. This makes it harder for thieves with no experience to wire a vehicle hot and then turn it on.
A circuit board equipped with an induction coil connects the chip to the key. When the key is put in the ignition it creates a magnetic field generated around the transponder. This generates a signal, which is taken up by the coil and then transmitted to the key's identification. The ID number of the key is then sent back to the vehicle and if it matches the engine will begin to run.
There are several methods to program a transponder key but they all involve using an appropriate tool. These tools can be bought on the internet or at most auto locksmiths. They're not cheap, but they're essential for programming the chip to your vehicle.
You can also utilize a transponder that is reprogrammable that has been previously programmed for another vehicle. In this case, ensure that the key isn't damaged or the transponder is not altered in any way. You can read the chip by using a scanner or a computer equipped with the USB connector.
The process of reprogramming an transponder's key is simple, but it requires an expertly designed software and scan tool. If you're just beginning you should seek the assistance of an auto locksmith. Also, avoid buying second-hand keys as they are likely already programmed and won't be compatible with your car.
EZ Installer
For a long time, car owners who needed to replace their key fob had no other alternative than to visit a dealer to have their key linked to their vehicle. This is because in order to make modern keys work they must be "paired". This required expensive and complicated equipment that was available only to dealers. The EZ Installer by Car Keys Express simplifies the process of pairing up modern keys with vehicles for locksmiths and retailers.
The EZ Installer, a simple "plug-and-play" OBD device, pairs new keys with vehicles without the use of complicated equipment or tokens for programming. It connects directly to the standard OBD port of the vehicle, and runs a mobile application to provide easy to follow instructions. The EZ Installer works with a wide range of modern vehicles that include proximity keys or push-button start. To determine if it'll work with a specific vehicle, refer to the compatibility guidelines on Tom's site.
If the device fails to program a remote or a key purchased from Tom's into a compatible vehicle then a full refund is available.
Unlike traditional programming equipment, which costs key retailers and professionals tens of thousands of dollars in "token" fees per key, the EZ Installer Pro does not charge these costs. It is available as long as a key professional or retailer wants. The EZ Installer also eliminates the need for costly monthly service contracts and updates, meaning that it could save retailers money while still offering customers the same high-quality service as OEM equipment. It also comes with a world-class warranty that covers all hardware and software for the life of the product.
Tools
Locksmiths, auto mechanics, and vehicle owners can use car key programming tools to program new keys for vehicles. These tools communicate with a vehicle's immobilizer in order to program new keys and remotely controlled. These tools can be used to create duplicates and duplicate keys. These tools are an essential tool for anyone who owns an automobile.
Autel Maxisys MS906BT is among the most popular tools to program keys for cars. The scanner for diagnostics of vehicles is compatible with the major brands and provides advanced OE features. It also comes with a key programming function and the ability to save current important information. It can also reset the immobilizer or erase the fault codes.
The OTOFIX IM1 is an important tool to reprogramme car keys. reprogram car key can read passwords for most major brands and comes with advanced features that are OE-level. It also allows online calibration, customization, and reading of EEPROM. The program also has a feature to bypass a BMW or Mercedes PIN code. It can also read EEPROM, car MCU and CAN EEPROMs for the majority of major models.
The XToolUSA Bidirectional Scanner is another popular choice to reprogramme cars. This is a wonderful tool for auto repair shops as well as locksmiths as it can read key codes and other data from most vehicles within minutes. It also has a live test feature that helps identify the issue quickly.
There are a myriad of ways to reprogram your car. It is important to have the right tools, and also to know how they function. Incorrect programming could cause damage to the car's immobilizer system and prevent it from starting. It is recommended to consult a professional before trying to reprogram your car key.
Another option is to buy a kit that includes a key programmer, remote control key, as well as transponder chips. This will help ensure that you have everything you need to reprogram your car key. However, this process will take longer and requires a basic understanding of electronic circuits and soldering.