A How-To Guide For Program A Car Key From Start To Finish

How to Program a Car Key Modern cars have more than just a key to start the engine, they also come with a remote that can lock and unlock doors. These key fobs must be programmed to function. Certain keys for cars can be preprogrammed by the owner, however it's best to consult with a professional. This will help protect against any possible damage to the computer system and ensure that the new key works correctly. How to program a Key The majority of cars had basic key systems up until the turn of 21st century. Keys were made from metal and incorporated grooves to correspond with the internal parts in the ignition cylinder. As technology improved, more and more car makers began to mix physical and electronic protocols in order to prevent theft. These key systems are known as transponder keys or chip keys, and are designed to make it more difficult for thieves to start the vehicle. The key chips in the keys have a specific serial number that transmits an electronic signal to the receiver inside your car. When the signal is received, it compares it to the code that is stored in the car's computer. If the codes are identical the car will begin to begin. If the codes don't match, your car won't even start. This is why you should keep an extra car key especially if your system is transponder-based. You'll need special equipment to learn to program keys. You'll need to buy a blank key that matches your car model and make. These can be purchased at a dealership or by a locksmith however, you must be sure they're the correct ones. If you try to use a key from another brand, it won't work. To begin the process, insert the new key into the ignition and switch it to the “on” position. You'll need to keep the key in this position for around 10 minutes and 30 seconds. Once the time is up you can take out the key and see whether the security indicator on your dashboard went out. If not then you'll need to repeat the process for another time. Be aware that this method can only work on GM vehicles however it isn't foolproof. If you're looking for a secure and reliable solution then you should visit a locksmith or dealer to have your car programmed with an embedded chip. These professionals are equipped with the tools and equipment required to connect to the diagnostics port in your vehicle and make the switch. Keyless Entry Systems Keyless entry systems give access to your property without the need for an actual credential. Security is provided by sensors that are combined with an onboard computing device. It is possible to control and monitor the system from anywhere within the property. Keys and locks are not required. The system can also identify lost or stolen cards and deactivate them. In addition, the newest models are cloud-based, allowing for remote management and configuration. Modern cars are equipped with keyless entry systems. To enable this feature it emits radio signals that are picked up by a specific key fob. The signals are compared with the code stored in the computer of the car and if everything is in order, the car will unlock. If the signals don't match then the car won't start. There are a variety of steps you can take to program your new key fob if it's not already programmed. You'll first need to make sure that all doors excluding the driver's door are locked. You'll also need the original key fob, along with any additional keys you want to program. You could also check with your local auto parts store, as they may have the right tool to program your car. If none of these methods work, you'll have to consult the owner's manual or an expert locksmith. Once you have the right tool, you can begin the process of reprogramming your key fob by following the instructions provided by the manufacturer. This procedure is usually quick and easy. For instance, you could be instructed to insert your new key into the ignition with all doors shut and then press an appropriate button on the fob within a short time frame. The car might respond by cycling door locks or emitting an audible chime as a sign that the key was successfully programmed. A lot of locksmiths have tools that let them bypass the built-in EEPROM security on your car's key fob or remote. This is a risky method and could cause data corruption on your car's computer. It is recommended to have an expert handle this task because they will be able to minimize the chance of data corruption and also ensure your keys are properly programmed. Transponder Keys Transponder keys, sometimes referred to as chip keys, have a microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is inserted into the barrel of the ignition lock, and then turned to the ON position the antenna ring emits an energy burst through the transponder chip. The energy is absorbed by the chip and sends back a radio frequency signal with an identification code that matches up to the unique digital serial number in the car's computer system. This is to prevent any attempts by anyone else to start the car since only proper keys will be able to do so. The technology is believed to be more secure than conventional car keys because it makes it difficult for thieves to “hot wire” a vehicle and get it started. But it's not foolproof and thieves have found ways to evade and thwart the system so that even cars with transponder keys are not safe from theft. Depending on programming a key and model of your vehicle, you may be able to program a new transponder key yourself by using a key programming device that's compatible with the car you own. The key programmer will come with a manual that will take you step-by-step through the procedure. Follow the instructions and turn on the security light in your dashboard prior to beginning your engine. You can contact an expert locksmith to assist you if you are not confident using a key programmer or if you have a car with more advanced features, like remote head keys or intelligent keys. They will have the tools and equipment required to cut blank keys, erase the old key from the computer of the car, and program the new key for it to function properly. This will save you time and money, and keep your car's safety system working exactly as it should. Additionally, it's much safer than trying to do it yourself! If you use a incorrect key programming software or follow unofficial guides and the data in your car's system can be corrupted, and the new key will not work. Remotes If your car keys don't work it could be necessary to change the programming. This is an easy process for many modern vehicles that have key fobs. However, certain models are more complex and need to be programmed with the help of an instrument that is available from a dealer or auto locksmith. Fortunately, most modern car manufacturers have improved their key systems to be more secure to decrease the risk of theft from vehicles. The key system is designed to avoid hot-wiring (the practice of using the key of another vehicle to start the engine) and other similar methods. To ensure that this method works you'll require at minimum two key fobs that are working for your vehicle. It's important to have at least two spare keys in your possession. Key fobs are equipped with electronic chips in them that communicate with the car's radio via radio signals. The car's computer then compares this key's code to the one in its database. If the codes match, the car will start. If not, the car will remain dead or refuse to start. Luckily, most of these electronic keys can be repaired and programmed by an experienced auto dealer or a locksmith using the appropriate equipment. If you're able to find a cheap car key programmer on the internet or in an auto parts store, the procedure is fairly simple. You'll have to follow a specific set of steps that include inserting the key into the ignition and turning it on, without activating the engine, and then turning the key off. You'll have to repeat this procedure a specific number of times within a specified time period to allow your vehicle to enter programming mode. The door locks will turn on and off or a chime will sound. Certain modern vehicles can only be programmed with the aid of a tool that's connected to the diagnostics port on the car's motherboard or an EEPROM programming process. These tools are expensive and therefore are not accessible to the majority of car owners. So, many auto experts suggest that you consult with an expert locksmith or dealer to program your keys.