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Car Key Programming For Dummies
Everything You Need to Know About Car Key Programming
Without a programmed transponder key, you won't be able to start your car. Car key programming is an essential procedure that your key fob needs to go through in order for it to operate and start the vehicle.
Key replacement procedure has to be done the right way. Failing to do so might result in a compromised security, broken module, disabled vehicle, and very expensive repairs.
If you decided to contact a car key programming service provider, make sure you're working with a reputable company, you want the place to be liable for its work in case something goes sideways. A reputable company will have insurance to cover any damage done to your car.
A general recommendation would be to contact a professional auto locksmith shop, a professional would have the right skills and tools to program any vehicle key, from the newest smart key to the oldest remote key, in a safe way without encountering any car key programming issue. The coolest part is that many locksmiths who provide mobile car key programming services might come to your place the same day you call, which can be very convenient, especially if it is an emergency.
How do you program a new car key?
To understand how to program a new car key, first, we must understand how a programmed car key works. We made a cool infographic specifically to explain this concept:
Now, when we understand the basic process behind our programmed car keys, let's discuss how we can program a new car key. Essentially car key programming is the process of "marrying" between a new car key and your vehicle. Our anticipated end result is matching the correct password for our new car key or fob.
Usually, the process is universal for any vehicle. First, we would have to communicate with our car to retrieve the correct password. This communication can be done on many levels, from the most basic, which is following a specific Onboard procedure (which we will cover later on), to a more advanced level of communication such as OBD2 or a more fundamental process which is called EEPROM programming.
Next, after having the correct "data" or "password," we can write it to our new transponder key. Now let's discuss all the methods for car key programming.
All the methods for car key programming
1. Onboard Programming
Some car brands allow for easy key programming, like GM, for example. If you have a spare working key for your general motors vehicle, it is relatively easy to program a new one. The procedure should take no more than 1 minute to program new chip keys.
This type of procedure is called onboard programming because it does not require sophisticated programmers to program a new key fob. Any car owner can do all the programming procedures "onboard" inside the vehicle with the help of his existing key.
The programming usually involves a series of simple steps that the user has to do that eventually puts the vehicle into "learn mode" or "programming mode," allowing the car to program the additional key fob or a spare key.
If your car is equipped with onboard programming, you will be able to find those instructions in your car manual or on the internet by typing "onboard programming steps for X vehicle." Another great resource would be a website called "Program your remote" it has an excellent database for onboard programming.
2. OBD2 programming
Other car brands do not offer the option to program your car keys quickly and easily. If your vehicle is one of them, you most likely need a highly-advanced car key programmer to be able to do the job. Typically newer vehicles will require those.
In many cases, such car key programmers are very expensive and require knowledge to operate them. Some advanced programmers, typically called "dealer tools" or "dealer programmers," are not even accessible to the general public. They require a special commercial license and an online subscription.
An auto locksmith will have the necessary tools and will be able to assist you with your programming requirements. It is recommended that you research the automotive locksmith company you are about to give business to ensure credibility before providing them any access to your vehicle. Choosing the wrong person for the job can easily compromise your vehicle's security.
This type of programming is called OBD2 programming. It allows the specialist to enter the programming mode by one of the OBD2 protocols and modify the data to program a key fob to the car, and everything will be done through the OBD.
3. "On-bench" programming or EEPROM programming
EEPROM programming is the most fundamental and complex type of car key programming because it is pure electronics. This method is used only when there is no option to bypass the anti-theft system and enter the programming mode via the OBD2 port. Requires an in-depth understanding of circuit boards, electronics, and soldering.
EEPROM method requires extracting specific modules out of your car (security components); it is done to read the correct "password" and the "stored key data" located inside of the microchip which is sitting on the circuit board. It will allow us to enter the "programming mode" later and program a new automotive key to the car.
Such methods are risky and have a high chance of corrupting the information on the module. This is why you should contact a car key expert; he will have comprehensive knowledge of the security system, allowing him to reduce the risk of corrupting the data. You can find a great Youtube video explaining the EEPROM process for BMW key programming in this link.
How much time does it take to program a new key?
Overall domestic vehicles are easier to program car keys for than European vehicles, but their security level is steadily reaching that of their European competitors.
Some cars may take only a few minutes to program new car keys to a professional. It can require just an onboard procedure or a programmer connected to the OBD2 port. Both methods are relatively safe if done correctly by following the instructions.
Other cars, however, may even take days and require complex procedures. Usually, these are the cars that require EEPROM programming procedures.
At the end of the day, everything falls on the specialist. If he is skilled, he will program any type of car remote relatively quickly.
How much does it cost to program a car key?
It's difficult to give a definite answer as there's no limit to the variables that determine the price for programming a new key but we will try.
Based on the year of manufacture, car brand, and time of day, a locksmith will be able to provide you with a general estimate for your replacement car keys. If they are challenging to program, it might also increase the price.
Prices for this kind of work may vary depending on the criteria we mentioned above – but in almost all cases, it will be within the ranges we will provide below and only sometimes you might have to pay more. You can find general pricing info below, broken down by key type.
1.Regular transponder key
Regular transponder key programming usually starts at $95 and can go up to $180+.
*pricing is just a programming service. It does not include supplying the product or cutting the blade
2.Remote head key / Remote flip key
Remote head / Remote flip key programming usually starts from $95 and can go up to $180+.
*pricing is just a programming service. It does not include supplying the product or cutting the blade
3.Fobik chip key
The cost of a FOBIK chip key programming usually starts at $95 and can go up to $250+.
*pricing is just a programming service. It does not include supplying the product or cutting the blade
4.Proximity key / Comfort access key
Proximity/comfort access key fob programming usually starts at $100 and can go up to $250+.
*pricing is just a programming service. It does not include supplying the product or cutting the blade
How to save on car key programming expenses?
When you order car keys online, be sure they come from a reputable source. Furthermore, your replacement car key needs to be compatible with your vehicle.
Getting the wrong key fob programmed can result in problems: programming failure or something even worse, damage to electric modules. You might end up paying for very expensive repairs. As consumers, we want to find a balance between high quality and low price when it comes to products we purchase. Where should we pay our attention when ordering car keys online?
1. Check your car key's FCC ID (part number)
Each car key has a unique key part number called an "FCC ID". Sometimes the key fob you find online might seem like the one you used to open and start your car, but it still might not have the right part number.
What does it mean for you? Either that the key might not be programmable to your car, or it might only program half the features available for your vehicle. For example, the key might start the car, but the remote portion would not work on it. In rare cases, a wrong programmed key will damage the vehicle.
2. Make sure to research the reviews of any seller that you want to buy from
Customers often buy their car keys online and sometimes despite stating the right "FCC ID" on the seller's website, they receive a key with the wrong "FCC ID."
To minimize the risk of getting the wrong key, try to research about your seller online, read reviews and feedback to get a sense of the quality of the product.
It's important to see what other people have to say about the key they bought. If you're in a similar situation there might be bits of information that can help you identify if this key will work for you!
3.Call a professional car locksmith to program it for you
There are things that you should save money on and others that you should not. We always recommend going to a car key expert for programming services if you want to minimize your risks.
You might find somebody who will give you an attractive quote, but you can't be sure if they're qualified for the job. Although accepting their offer is ok, it will result in risks. You might end up having to fix expensive electronics, if something goes wrong in the programming procedure.
In short if you want to have a good night's sleep, our practice suggests calling a certified automotive locksmith to do the job right.
Need to program your new car keys in Calgary?
Programming a car key to a recent models needs lots of knowledge and advanced programming capabilities. CarKeyAction is matching new cutting-edge technology with our immense expertise to stay on top of the challenges ahead. Our technicians have the most up-to-date tools to program new car key and fobs.
If you need a car locksmith in Calgary to program your car keys, we are here for the job! Call us today at (403)-589-8978 or contact us below and book an appointment, our technicians would be happy to help.
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