Electronic keys are convenient and keep the car safe from thieves. Fortunately, many of these keys and remotes can be replaced and programmed at home. To proceed, start the engine with a working key, then use the one you want to program or press the button on the remote control. It should work fine, but if it doesn't, take the car and key to a dealer or locksmith.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Program a Key
Step 1. Sit in the driver's seat
You must have access to the ignition lock in order to connect the keys to the vehicle systems. Maybe you need two working keys in order to program or repair a third one; in this regard, consult the maintenance manual for any additional instructions.
- Carry out an online search by typing in the make and model of your car; by doing so, you can find the exact procedure for programming your car key.
- Many new models are equipped with better transponder keys. These must be programmed by the dealer or an authorized locksmith because they are associated exclusively with one car and are an anti-theft device.
Step 2. Insert the programmed key into the ignition switch
Leave it still for a moment. Store the other two in a place in the cockpit that you have easy access to, as you have to proceed quickly to activate the vehicle's programming mode; make sure you recognize the working keys from the "blank" one.
Step 3. Turn the car on and off
Turn the key you put in the ignition switch to the "on" position without starting the engine, in order to activate the electrical system; immediately bring it back to the starting position so that the car switches off.
Step 4. Repeat the procedure with the second active key
You have about five seconds to remove the first, take the second and insert it into the ignition. Start the electrical system, without starting the engine, and turn the key back to the "off" position.
Step 5. Insert and turn the third key
At this point, you have about ten seconds to replace the second with the one to be programmed. Turn it quickly once you have introduced it into the boot block and, after a second, bring it back to the initial position; do not take it out for now.
Step 6. Wait for the safety light to come on
Keep an eye on the dashboard to see when the warning light illuminates; it should remain active for about three seconds. Perhaps you need to press the keys on the key you want to program; when finished, remove the key from the block and try it on.
Method 2 of 3: Program the Remote
Step 1. Turn the ignition to the "on" position
Sit in the driver's seat with the key and remote control in hand; close all the doors, insert the key in the lock and turn it to the start position, without starting the engine.
Consult the maintenance manual or the car manufacturer's website to know the specific procedures for your car; the programming methods vary according to the make of the car
Step 2. Press the close button on the remote control
Point it at the receiver, if you know where it is; generally, it is mounted in the front of the vehicle, for example above the mirror; then direct the remote control there. Press the door lock button within a couple of seconds of turning the key.
Step 3. Return the ignition to the "off" position
Immediately grab the key and turn it to the initial position, deactivating the electrical system; always proceed quickly, as you have only a few seconds before the car resets the controls.
Step 4. Repeat the procedure with the other remote controls
Many cars "forget" other remotes when you try to program a new one. In this case, you have to start over by starting the electrical system, pressing the door lock button on the next remote control and switching off the vehicle again; do not hesitate between one action and another.
- All keys or remote controls must be reprogrammed in quick succession; if you wait more than a few seconds, the machine system deactivates the "programming mode" and you have to start over from the beginning with all the remote controls.
- For some vehicles you have to repeat the sequence several times to be able to enter programming mode; when you feel that the lock mechanisms are activated, you are sure that the procedure was successful.
Step 5. Start the electrical system
Turn the key again to the ignition position without starting the engine.
Step 6. Press the door lock button on the first remote control
The machine control unit activates the programming mode at the same time, if it has not yet done so; however, you can understand it when the lock mechanism comes into operation.
Step 7. Press the buttons of all the remotes
Start with the first one and operate it to make sure it is programmed; you should hear the sound of the locks. Quickly go to the second and repeat the procedure for all those you want to program; afterwards, you can turn off the electrical system and try all the remote controls.
Method 3 of 3: Replace the Keys
Step 1. Get a "virgin"
Unscheduled keys are available online at a lower price than in auto parts stores. Make sure the one you get is suitable for your car make and model. Also make sure she is a virgin; for example, you cannot take the remote control of your old car and reprogram it for the new one, if it is not the same model of vehicle.
If you have a modern car, it is unlikely that you will be able to program the key yourself; in this case, you must go to your dealer or a locksmith
Step 2. Call a locksmith or dealer
The electronic keys are all equipped with a chip for the transponder. Some allow you to open the doors but not to start the engine; if this is also your case, you must rely on a dealer authorized by the car manufacturer or a specialized locksmith. Both can help you when you can't program the keys.
- These professionals use the machine identification number to make sure the key is correct.
- The VIN code can be found on the official documentation, on the vehicle registration document and on the insurance policy; you should also see it through the windshield on the right side of the dashboard.
Step 3. Bring the documents proving ownership to the locksmith
For legal reasons you must prove that you own the vehicle in order to obtain an official duplicate of the keys; doing so prevents someone from taking over the car and getting new keys. You must also get the card with the code found in the maintenance manual; in this way, it is easier to program a key.
Advice
- The procedure for programming the keys varies according to the car manufacturer; always consult the user manual or search online by entering the model and year of production of the car to find specific instructions.
- It is worth keeping several working keys on hand; for some cars you need to have two active before you can program a new one.
