Can Electronic Car Keys Be Reprogrammed? - All Pro Locksmiths (2024)

FAQs

Can Electronic Car Keys Be Reprogrammed? - All Pro Locksmiths? ›

Yes. Professional locksmiths have an experience with every type of key, even electronic ones.

If you're not able to enter or start your vehicle using your electronic key, then it may need reprogramming. As the reprogramming process varies depending on the type of key and the make and model of the vehicle, it's usually easiest to use a professional auto locksmith to complete the reprogramming process.

Typically, a smart key replacement can cost anywhere from $220 to $500, depending on the type of car, and can be more expensive if done through a dealership than a locksmith. Through reprogramming, a locksmith can quickly replace your smart key and help you avoid any major inconveniences.

Some transponder chip keys are reprogrammable, but not all. If you're looking for a transponder key programmer, contact our experienced technicians at Keyway Lock Service.

You can find the right key fob for your car at many locations, and an associate will help you program it to your vehicle as well.

Smart keys, also known as keyless entry remotes, are the most technologically advanced and can cost anywhere from $220-$500 per fob to program. These key fobs allow you to start your car, lock and unlock doors, and even open the trunk without physically handling the key.

The work of an automotive locksmith usually involves one of two procedures; REFLASHING or EEPROM WORK. REFLASHING - Reflashing is a proven technique where a vehicle immobilizer is programmed with a special file which restores the EEPROM to the original factory values (same condition as a new immobilizer).

Locksmiths or automobile dealerships will use an auto key programmer, whereas a smart key programmer can be used for other mechanical key fob fixes and replacements.

Transponder keys – Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $250 for a transponder key replacement. The immobilizer chip in the key will also need to be programmed. Smart keys – Replacement costs for smart keys can range from $200 to $500 or more.

Can you program transponder keys by yourself? ›

If your car is equipped with onboard programming, you will be able to program a new transponder key or a keyless entry remote by yourself. If you own a newer vehicle, most likely it would not be equipped with onboard programming, and it will require a professional key programmer.

A: It really depends on the car. With some, the key fobs can be programmed without any special tools, but others require one or more tools to do the job. As an example, I am evaluating a scan tool from Xtool, which can program some fobs that would normally take a trip to the dealer or an automotive locksmith.

Armed with just your smartphone, EZ Key Programming app and OBD dongle, you'll be able to program vehicle keys. Our simple system guides you through auto key programming via the OBD port, allowing you to program all available types of auto replacement keys. For more information, visit www.ezkeyprogramming.com.

You'll have to call a certified car manufacturer dealer or an auto locksmith. Either can help if you cannot program your key. These professionals will use your car's vehicle identification number (VIN) number to make sure you get the right key.

Generally speaking, batteries plus key fob programming cost anywhere between about $55 and $400. Finding a replacement key fob near me or a mobile key programmers near me can be a challenge.

Fobs are smaller than keycards and therefore easier to carry around. However, like key cards, fobs pose a risk for copying. Copying a key fob is easier than many people realize. Although you won't be able to have it copied at a hardware store like a traditional key, you can have a key fob copied online or at a kiosk.