15 Reasons Why You Shouldn t Overlook Reprogramming Car Key
Reprogramming Car Keys
Transponders in car keys are thought to keep vehicles more secure and more difficult for thieves to duplicate. Keys may need to be reprogrammed in the case of damage or lost.
You can change the programming of your key fobs at home, but you need to be aware of the proper procedure. For the best results, you'll need the following items:
Keys
Nearly all modern vehicles require a transponder fob or transponder keys to operate, ensuring security and protection against theft. These keys must be programmed to your specific vehicle and its systems by an authorized locksmith or dealer. They can be costly to replace in the event of loss therefore, you should have spares in your car. You can also find replacement key fobs on various websites and in many brick-and-mortar auto shops. How can you be sure that the key you purchased is authentic? Can you tell whether the unit is programmed to work with a different vehicle, or if it can be programmed again?
If you are planning to program a new key, the first step is to ensure that your car is on and running. Insert the key that you'd like to reprogramme into your ignition, but do not turn it. There are only a couple of seconds before the car's system reverts the commands and exits programming mode. It is important that you be quick and don't be patient between each step. To avoid this happening, shut off the engine. Turn the key from "on" to "off" to test the system. The door locks should cycle and you'll hear a sound that indicates that the process has been successful.
Some newer cars use a rolling key technology that keeps thieves from using a stolen car's key to start it. This feature is still vulnerable to a technique dubbed replay attack which allows thieves to record the signal of the key fob of the car and reproduce it later to unlock the car. To combat this, manufacturers added security features known as the CAN bus protocols to prevent hackers from gaining access to the vehicle.
Some manufacturers use a special encryption on their keys, which cannot be decoded by an ordinary program. You should only attempt this process if your experience is with electronics. Refer to the manual for your car or visit the manufacturer's website for information on how to program it. The steps are different according to the type of vehicle.
Transponder chips
Car keys with transponder chips require a special reconfiguration to work. While any hardware store can cut a new key for you, the real problem is to make it work in conjunction with your particular car. A key that has been reprogrammed will need to be matched with the exact identification number of your vehicle otherwise it won't even start the engine.
Transponder chips, used to prevent car theft, are a common feature of modern cars. The chip is a tiny microcircuit that emits a radio frequency signal when the ignition key is placed. The car detects the signal and begins the engine only if the signal is in line with the original that was programmed in the vehicle. The car is also programmed to shut down when it detects an incorrect frequency. This makes it more difficult for novice car thieves to wire a vehicle and start it.
The key and the chip are connected by a circuit board that includes an induction coil. When the key is put in the ignition, a magnetic field is created around the transponder. This produces a signal which is absorbed by the coil, which transmits it to the key's identification number. The ID number of the key is sent back to the vehicle, and if it matches the engine will start.
There are several ways to program a key transponder, but all require the use of a specific tool. You can buy these tools online or at most locksmiths for cars. They are not cheap, but they're crucial for programming the chip to your vehicle.
You could also make use of a transponder key that can be reprogrammed that was previously programmed for a different vehicle. In this instance you'll need to make sure that the key isn't damaged or the transponder has been altered in any way. To do this, you'll need a scanner or a computer with an USB port to scan the chip and determine its identity.
Reprogramming a transponder key is quite easy, but it will require an expertly designed software and scan tool. If you're just beginning you should seek the assistance of an auto locksmith. Also, avoid buying secondhand keys, as they are likely already programmed and will not work with your vehicle.
EZ Installer
For decades, 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 for modern keys to function they have to 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 modern keys with vehicles used by locksmiths and retailers.
The Easy Installer is a straightforward, "plug and play" OBD device that pairs new keys with vehicles without the need for complex equipment or programming tokens. It works by connecting directly to the vehicle's standard OBD port and using an app on mobile car key programmer devices to provide simple instructions. The EZ Installer works with most modern vehicles with proximity keys or push-button start. Go to the compatibility guide on Tom's website to see if your vehicle is compatible.
A full money-back guarantee is offered if the device does not successfully program a remote or key purchased from Tom's for a vehicle that is compatible.
Contrary to conventional programming equipment that costs retailers and key professionals thousands of dollars through typical per-key "token" fees, the EZ Installer Pro doesn't charge any fees, so it can be used for as long as a retailer or key professional wishes to keep it. The EZ Installer eliminates the need for costly monthly service contracts and software updates. This allows retailers to save money while providing their customers the same high quality service as OEM equipment. It also comes with a world-class warranty that includes all software and hardware for life.
Tools
Locksmiths, auto mechanics and even owners of vehicles can use car key programming tools to create new keys for cars. These tools connect to a vehicle's immobilizer to create new keys and control them remotely. They can also be used to clone existing keys and create duplicates. These tools are an essential tool for anyone who has a vehicle.
One of the most popular tools for programming keys to cars is the Autel Maxisys MS906BT. This scanner for vehicle diagnostics provides advanced features OE-level and is compatible with the majority of the top brands. It also has the ability to program keys and is able to backup current key information. It can also reset the immobilizer or erase the fault code.
Another tool that is essential for car key reprogramming is the OTOFIX IMM1. This auto diagnostic scanner can read passwords for most major brands and comes with advanced features that are OE-level. It also has the ability to perform online calibration, customization and EEPROM reading. The tool also has an option to bypass the BMW or Mercedes PIN code. It also has the ability to read EEPROM, car MCU, and CAN EEPROMs for all major models.
The XToolUSA Bidirectional Scanner is another option to reprogramme cars. This tool can read key information and codes from most vehicles in a few seconds and is a fantastic tool for auto shops as well as locksmiths. It also features an active test feature that can help identify the issue quickly.
While there are many different ways to reprogram a car, it is crucial to use the right tools and to know how to make use of them. A mistake in programming a car key could cause damage to the vehicle's immobilizer system, and may prevent it from working. Before attempting to reprogram your car key, it is best to seek advice from an expert.
Another option is to purchase the kit that comes with keys, a key programmer, remote control keys, and transponder chips. This will ensure that you have everything you need to reprogramme your car key. This method takes longer and requires knowledge of soldering and electronics.