Programming Car Keys Without the Original: Is It Possible?

Yes, you can program the unlocking and locking function of the keychain without having to go to the dealer. But if you need to program the transponder to be able to start the car with the key, you may have to go to the dealer or a locksmith.

Programming car keys can be quite a

complex topic, but with a little quick research and basic knowledge, you should be able to understand the basic function of the system. With the key in the “On” position, press the lock button on the remote control and turn the key back to the “Off” position.

If the keychains still don't work, or if only one of the keychains you've tried to program works, you might want to try the whole process one more time. Inside car keys is a small chip or transponder that sends a signal to the car's immobilizer system. Electronic car keys, also called key rings, are useful for controlling car doors, trunk and alarm, and sometimes they can even start the car remotely from a distance. However, on most modern car models, it is impossible to program a key for the start function without appropriate tools.

Even if you copy the original key and program a key fob to match the new one, you won't be able to start the car's engine with that key without a successful reprogramming procedure. Sit in the driver's seat with the car keys and key rings you want to reprogram and close all the doors. Therefore, it is necessary to program the immobilizer to match the transponder chip of the new car key and, unfortunately, this programming requires special software, usually directly from an authorized dealer, depending on the car model. The information above is only for programming the key rings to be able to open the doors to enter into the car. The new vehicle keys now have a transponder chip and, when the key is inserted into the ignition, it is activated by a radio frequency signal sent from the ignition barrel. If you want to program new keys so they can start your car's engine, this process is usually much more difficult and it's not something you can do at home without special tools. Reprogramming a key fob for lock and unlock functions costs nothing if you do it yourself on most car models.