What Can a Car Keys Programmer Do For You?
A car key programmer offers a variety of diagnostic tools. Some are costly while others are affordable. Most of these tools are compatible with a variety of brands and models.
Certain vehicles, however, require a professional for the reprogramming of keys. This is because they use an exclusive key system.
Keys with transponder
Transponder keys are a digital security feature which makes it impossible for someone else to steal your car. This feature has been incorporated in a variety of modern cars to lower the risk of auto theft. The transponder, a small chip in the car key, transmits an unintentional radio signal to the car's computer whenever it is within the range. This is how the car knows that the key belongs to you and that it is allowed to begin.
It is important to keep your transponder's keys away from magnetic fields. A magnet can damage the transponder, causing it to stop functioning. It is also recommended to use a dedicated key fob for your car if possible. You can locate a key fob easily online or in a store near your home.
The transponder inside your car's key is a tiny microchip that transmits a low-level radio signal to the engine of the car. The technology was designed to protect against car thefts by preventing the ignition in the event that the key was not programmed correctly. To program a new key, you'll require contacting with a specialist car locksmith. This person will have a tool called a Key Programmer, which is usually integrated into more sophisticated scanning tools.
While it is technically feasible to program a key yourself but it is not recommended. A locksmith has a greater understanding of the security system of the vehicle and can decrease the chance of data corruption on the chip. A reliable locksmith has access to advanced tools and can complete the task in a short time.
A key programmer is handheld device that connects to an OBD-II port, allowing it to read the programming data from the computer in the car. Then, the device will recode the transponder and key so that they function together. There are a variety of key programming devices. However they all function the same way. They all come with a variety of options and procedures that work for each make and model of vehicle. They are also able to copy the information on an existing key, and transfer it to a new one.
Keys with a chip
To start a vehicle the majority of newer vehicles require that the key be equipped with chips. This type of key was designed to prevent theft of cars by preventing thieves from starting the car with another key. They have an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. They are referred to as transponder keys. The computer system in the car needs to be programmed in order to recognize this chip. It must be activated with the appropriate key. You can purchase a chipped key from an auto locksmith or your dealer, but it is typically more expensive than buying an ordinary key.
The first step is to locate the correct key for your vehicle. You can purchase blank keys online for a cheaper price, but they must be the same model and make as the vehicle you own. You'll also need the VIN number. This is the unique identification code of your vehicle. If you don't know the VIN number, you can look it up on the internet or in the owner's manual. The next step is to program the key into your vehicle after you have the correct one. The best method to do this is to go to a professional auto locksmith or dealer. They are able to program a new key in less than 30 minutes.
When you insert the ignition key into the ignition, it sends out an energy pulse to the ring of antennas in the lock. The energy is absorbed by the chip inside the key, and then reflects back a radio frequency signal with an identification code that the car is able to read. The code can inform the car whether it's genuine and prevent it from starting with a different key.
If you are looking for a tool to help you program automotive keys, you should look at the XTOOL Inplus IP616. It has an easy-to-use, simple interface and can be used by home mechanics or professionals. It is able to clone the transponder chip on more than 80% of automobiles. It also comes with a PIN code reader that works with 7 different manufacturers and can read immobilizer codes as well as mechanical keys.
Keys with PIN codes
Many automobile manufacturers use keys that must be programmed to start the car. This prevents thieves hot-wiring cars and stealing them. These key systems can easily be repaired by a locksmith or home. The procedure is quite simple and takes just a few minutes, unless you're working with an older model that requires programming EEPROM.
Many of the tools required to program a new key are now affordable enough to be bought by homeowners (more details at the link). It is essential to determine which key will work with your vehicle. Some are more expensive and sophisticated, but they will all perform the task. If you are not comfortable with the process, you might be interested in having it done by a professional.
Key programmers connect to the On-Board Diagnostics port on your car and allows you to program new fobs and keys. This is a great choice for people who need to replace keys lost or create duplicates. It can also be used to unlock your car in the event of an emergency. These devices can vary in price, from as low as $50 to a few thousand dollars. Some have additional features, like GPS locators that are able to locate your car even in the dark.
The first step to complete car key programming is to turn off the engine and remove the keys. Insert the new key, and then turn the ignition on/off several times. The new key should work. If it still doesn't work try a different key or contact a dealer for assistance.
Dealers charge a fee to add an "skimcode" to certain vehicles before they can program the new key. The cost is then passed on to the customer. You can cut down on these costs by choosing a key programmer which supports as many vehicles possible. A good option is the Smart Pro, which works across a variety of vehicle brands and models. The Smart Pro is a bit more expensive than the previous versions of the MVP and Tcode Pro but it's well worth the cost in case you're working with multiple automobile models and brands.
Keys with VIN
The VIN code is a unique identifier of 17 characters that lets you get more information about your car. This is crucial in the event of theft or insurance claims. This is why it's recommended to get a professional locksmith to change your keys using the VIN code. It takes only some minutes for them to program your key. This is a far superior option than using an online key replacement service.
To create a new key with a VIN code, you will need the car's key fob and the VIN number of the vehicle. If you're not sure where to look for the VIN it's usually found on official documents such as the vehicle title, registration and insurance card. You can also locate the VIN on the spot where your dashboard and windshield meet.
Once you have the key fob, put it into the ignition of your vehicle and then turn on the engine. The security light should turn on and stay illuminated for a few seconds while the key is being programmed. If the key is working it will go off after a few seconds and the process is complete.
This method could work with most American cars but not all. This method might not be effective in certain instances due to the fact that manufacturers have proprietary technology that only allow dealerships to create new keys. If you can locate a dealership with a copy, they can create a new key for you at a fraction of the cost of an auto locksmith.
There are also locksmiths who have access databases of what keys were assigned to which car by the manufacturer. They can connect to your vehicle to register a key when you report it lost or stolen. This isn't illegal, but the manufacturer is able to audit the locksmiths who have accessed the database and report them to the police.
It can be expensive to replace your keys with a brand new key with a VIN however, it is usually the least expensive alternative. You can purchase an identical key from a dealer or an auto locksmith. The key has been programmed to your car in order that it will only start when you have the right code. You can do it yourself but it will take some time and could damage the electronic system of your car.