How to Program a Car Key
Electronic keys are useful and protect your car from thieves. Fortunately, many of these keys and remotes can be replaced and programmed at home. To program a car key, turn the ignition on and off with the keys that work. Then use the unprogrammed key or press a button on the key fob. Your key should work perfectly, but if it doesn’t, you can take it to a professional car dealer or locksmith for help, click here for the best locksmith in your location.
Programming a Car Key
- Sit in the driver’s seat
You need to access the car’s ignition to connect the keys to the car’s systems. You may need two working keys to make or repair a third. Consult your owner’s manual for additional steps required by the manufacturer. Also look online for the make and model of your car. You can find the exact steps required to program your car keys. Many newer cars have improved transponders in electronic keys. These need to be programmed by a car dealer or locksmith for your car’s unique anti-theft system.
- Insert a programmed key into the ignition
Put the key in the slot and leave it alone for a while. Place the other two keys where you can easily reach them. You have to be quick to activate the car’s programming mode. Make sure you know which key is which.
- Turn the car on and off
Turn the key you put in the ignition to the on position, do not start the engine. Simply turn the key to the on position which activates the electrical system. Immediately turn the key back to turn off the vehicle.
- Turn the car on and off with the second working key
You have about five seconds to remove the first key. Find the second programmed key and insert it into the ignition. Turn the key again so the car can get there without starting the engine. To turn the car off, turn the key backwards.
- Insert and turn the third key
Insert and turn the third key. You have about ten seconds to replace the second key with the non-programmed key. Quickly turn the key to the on position. A second later, return it to the off position. Leave the key in the ignition.
- Wait for the security light to turn on
Check your dash for the car’s security light. It should stay on for about three seconds. You may need to press the buttons for the key you want to program. When you’re done, remove the key and test it.
Programming a Car Key Fob
- Turn on the ignition
Sit in the driver’s seat with the ignition key and the key fob (also called a keyless entry remote). Close all doors. Insert the key and turn it to the on position. Do not start the engine.
Check your owner’s manual or online for steps specific to your vehicle. Different manufacturers require slightly different steps to complete the reprogramming process.
- Press the lock button on your remote
Point the remote control at the transceiver if you know the location. It’s somewhere in the front of the car, like above the mirror, so look ahead. Seconds after turning the key, press the lock button.
- Turn off the ignition
Immediately insert the key into the ignition. Turn off the car. Keep moving quickly. The car system only has a few seconds to reset the commands.
- Repeat programming with other remote controls
Many cars will sync all the remotes when you try to program a new one. Start at the beginning. Turn on the ignition, press the lock button on the next remote and turn the ignition off. Don’t wait between actions.
- Each key must be reprogrammed immediately after the last one. If you wait more than a few seconds, the car will exit programming mode. You must start over to program all the remotes.
- For some cars, you need to repeat the cycle several times to enter the programming mode. You may hear the latches clicking, indicating that it was done correctly.
- Turn on the ignition
Put the key back in the ignition. Start the car and activate the electrical system. Do not start the engine.
- Press the lock button on the first remote control
Pressing the button should put the car into programming mode if it wasn’t already. The vehicle locks are activated to indicate that this has happened.
- Press the lock buttons on all remote controls
Start with the first remote and press it again to make sure it is programmed. The locks should beep to indicate that the remote has been programmed correctly. Quickly move to the next remote control. Repeat the process for each remote you want to program. You can then turn off the ignition and test your remotes.
Replacing Keys
- Get a Blank Key
Blank keys can be ordered online at a discounted price. Make sure you buy one that is specific to your make and model of car. Keys must also be empty. For example, you can’t take a remote for your old car and program it for your new car, even if they are the same make and model.
Most likely, you will not be able to program a new key yourself on newer cars. You must visit a dealer or locksmith.
- Call a locksmith
Call a Locksmith – If any of the above methods failed you can seek the help from one of the best Auto Locksmith in Your Location.
All electronic keys have transponder chips. Some of these allow you to unlock the car but cannot start it. You should call your car’s authorized dealer or local locksmith. Both can help you if you can’t program your key.
These professionals use your vehicle’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to make sure you get the correct key.
The VIN number can be found on most official documentation, including the vehicle title, registration, and insurance card. You can also find it by looking through the windshield to the right side of the dash.
- Bring ownership information to the locksmith
By law, you must show your license and registration when requesting an official key. This is to prevent someone from taking your car and getting a new key. You can also find a code card in your owner’s manual. Take them with you to make key making easier.
For Further Assistance with Programming your Car Key Fob or Programming your Car Key Fob – click here for The Best Locksmith Near You
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