Key Programming & Immobilizer Programming For Most Vehicles
What is key programming and the immobilizer?
After the mid- to late-1990s, manufacturers began placing a transponder chip in the plastic head of the key. The chip emits a signal to a receiver in the ignition. If this “immobilizer” detects the wrong signal — meaning that the wrong key is in the ignition — the vehicle will not start.
A transponder key’s shank is either a basic key or a laser-cut key (more on laser-cut keys later). The major difference between a basic key and a transponder key is that the chip in the transponder key must be programmed before it can start the vehicle.
Key programming process
All dealerships have the machines necessary to program the key. Most will charge up to an hour of labor for programming. We have factory machines to program additional keys or program new computers (PCM).
In some vehicles, the transponder key and the fob are an all-in-one unit. This adds to the price of the key and makes it more difficult to get a spare anywhere but at the dealership (maybe a Chinese clone on eBay).
Lock-out key
A potential low-cost alternative for access to your car is to order a basic key without the transmitter. This key will do everything but start the engine and can come in handy if you ever leave your keys inside the vehicle.