Car Key Programming

Programming is what pairs a key to your car. A key can be cut perfectly and still do nothing, because the vehicle has to be told to accept it. That pairing is done through the car’s computer, and what it takes depends on the make, the model year and whether you already have a working key.

We do this at your vehicle. There is no need to tow anything to a dealership.

Which of these is you?

People use the word programming for three different situations. Finding yours first will save you a phone call.

You bought a key online and need it programmed

We program customer-supplied keys as long as the part is correct for your vehicle. See the section below on getting the part number right, because this is where most of these jobs go wrong.

You have a working key and want a spare

Having one working key makes this the simplest version of the job. We can cut and program a second key, or program one you have already bought. More on that on our car key duplication page.

You have no working key at all

This is called all keys lost, and it is a different job. The key has to be generated from the vehicle rather than copied from an existing one, which takes longer and needs different equipment. See car key replacement.

Getting the part number right

A fob that looks identical to yours can still be the wrong part. Buttons, frequency and chip type vary between trim levels and model years, and a close match will not program. Before you order, use one of these:

• Send us your VIN. The most reliable option, and the least work for you. We will look up exactly what your vehicle takes and tell you what to order.
• Send us a photo of your current fob, front and back.
• Check the back of your existing fob. Most OEM fobs have an FCC ID and a part number stamped on them. This only works if the fob you are reading is the original one from the manufacturer. An aftermarket fob will show its own numbers, not your vehicle’s.
• Look it up on the manufacturer’s official parts site using your VIN.

One thing worth knowing before you order: a key you buy yourself is not covered by our warranty, because we did not supply it. If it turns out to be faulty or incorrect, we usually carry the right key and can supply one on the spot.

What we program

• Transponder keys
• Remote head keys
• Flip keys
• Proximity fobs and push-to-start smart keys
• Remote fobs for lock, unlock and trunk release
• Motorcycle keys where the system allows it

What we need to know when you call

• Year, make and model
• Whether you have a working key right now
• Whether you already bought a key, and which one
• Where the vehicle is

That is enough for us to tell you what the job involves before anyone drives anywhere. Some vehicles are straightforward, some need more time, and a few are genuinely better handled by a dealer. We will say so if that is the case.

Common questions