Key fobs are electronic car keys that allow you to perform such functions as locking and unlocking your vehicle, disarming the vehicle security, opening the hatch, and activating the panic alarm remotely. When you purchase a new key fob or need to replace your current key fob unit, a key fob programmer must program it to align with your vehicle’s code.
What Is A Key Fob Programmer?
Key fob programmers are devices that recode the transponder in the key fob unit to sync it with your vehicle’s code. A key fob programmer establishes a two-way interface with the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD-II) connector and programs the key fob unit to align with the vehicle’s security system. Once you do this, the car is in tune with the key fob and recognizes the remote signals sent by the fob to perform various functions.
While some vehicles have integrated self-programmable key fobs, others need a key fob programmer device to get the new fob synced with the vehicle’s security system. It’s crucial to get this programming or coding right. Otherwise, the car will not recognize the remote signals sent by the key fob.
Uses of A Key Fob Programmer
A key fob programmer is indispensable when replacing lost or damaged key fobs or creating multiple copies or clones as backup. It’s an essential accessory for locksmiths and mechanic’s garages. You can use it to erase faulty key fob codes and reprogram them anew. Some key fob programmers can troubleshoot problems in the OBD-II code, identify faulty equipment, sync issues, and help you fix car security, alarm, and remote ignition issues.
Types of Key Fob Programmers
Although a single device can reprogram key fobs for multiple car brands and models, not all are compatible with all brands. Modern key fob programmers differ in their make and design. While some key fob programmers can only program a limited number of fobs, others have token systems that allow the addition of extra tokens once the initial quantity is depleted. Some are designed exclusively to work as lock and security key fob programmers, while others are a crucial feature of comprehensive automotive diagnostic tools and scanners.
Some are designed as tablet devices with cables and other paraphernalia to connect to various car parts. In contrast, others just have a keyless transmitter to connect with the OBD-II port. Some of them can only program three or four keys fobs, while the more advanced ones can program six keys fobs. Here’s a look at the different types of key fob programmers available online.
Overview of Various Types of Key Fob Programmers
1. Keyless Entry Transmitter
This 2-in-1 programmer and key fob unit work out cheaper than a trip to the dealership to program a single key fob. A preprogrammed module directly plugs into the OBD II port and syncs the fob with the vehicle’s code. Programming instructions are simple and easy to follow, and you can have the new key fob working within minutes.
This keyless entry remote programming tool allows you to program four buttons on the key fob and works for most Chevy HHR models. You can program the fob to remote start the vehicle, lock and unlock the doors, and engage and disengage the panic alarm functions. You can create multiple spare remote keys with this programmer as it’s also compatible with key fobs purchased separately.
The biggest drawback of this programmer is that it only works for three sessions. Also, it doesn’t have the comprehensive coverage offered by all-in-one electronic automotive diagnostic tools.
2. Advanced Electronic Key Programming Tool
This electronic programming tool supports all car models released up to 2019. It’s a digital touchscreen tablet that serves various automotive scanning and troubleshooting functions, with key fob programming being one of them. The functions related to key fob programming include reading transponder data on key fobs, writing data, bi-directional connection and control with the ECM, identifying OBD II modes, and updating key fobs with system codes.
It employs advanced tech like the ‘XP400 Programmer’ to clone keys, a special immobilizer that can scan and recognize keys within seconds, and a MaxiFlash unit to speed up the entire operation. You can create a key clone within 30 minutes with this scanner.
This tool is a costly buy if you’re only looking to program keys. You may need to buy a charger separately as the one that comes with this unit is not compatible with American adapters.
3. Automotive Diagnostic Scanner Tablet
This is a complete automotive system diagnostic scanner that’s more economical than most other options available online. Apart from the many scanning and diagnostic functions, it also performs key fob programming. It’s an android tablet that can read keys, offers bi-directional ECU control, and provides wide coverage for various car brands and models.
Key fob programming is a unique feature of this device and enables you to reprogram keys, rewrite smart keys, delete keys, relearn key functions, reset keys, and replace the ignition key knob. It has a decent battery life and is easy to work with.
Download and set up the software available online, and read the instructions carefully before you start programming your keys. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes to get the device working the first time around. This is an updated global version of the product compatible with most U.S. cars.
4. Key Programmer Device
This tool is designed for locksmiths and mechanics who need to program keys on a regular basis. It’s a plug-and-play diagnostic device with an LED screen that can scan code, read, write, rewrite data, and sync key fobs with vehicles. Powered by the vehicle’s OBD cables, it connects directly with the system to power on and function. Besides programming new keys, you can also use the All Keys Lost feature, erase keys, add new keys, and clone keys.
It’s a simple tool with guided programming instructions to help the users along. It comes with a limited number of tokens — 500. Once you’ve programmed 500 key fobs, you’ll need to renew your tokens in batches of 200. The company offers free lifetime firmware updates.
5. Automotive Diagnostic Tool with Key Fob Programming
This is a mid-range automotive diagnostic tool that also offers key fob programming. It is equipped with Modularer Querbaukasten(MQB), also known as modular transversal toolkit — a key match software that caters to a wide range of vehicles across the globe. It supports various key programming functions like All Key Lost, add key, and create a new key.
Since it’s a complete car diagnostic tool, the key programming functions it offered are limited. But, the good news is, the Pad 3 technology incorporated in the device allows you to expand its operations and create additional key programming features as required.
The device’s UI isn’t user-friendly, and navigating it might be a tad tricky, to begin with. Make use of the PDF instructions manual available online to get around this problem.
How to Choose the Best Key Fob Programmer For Your Car?
You can’t splurge on the most expensive key fob programmer and be done with it. You’ll need to consider the following factors before buying a key fob programmer:
- Key Fob Programmer Vehicle Compatibility
Amazon allows you to check the compatibility of a key fob programmer with the vehicle’s brand, model, and year of release. No matter how good the programmer is, if it isn’t compatible with the brand and model of your vehicle, it won’t work.
2. Value Cost of the Key Fob Programmer
Does it make sense to splurge $500 on that exclusive design that works for all vehicles? Not unless you work as a locksmith or a mechanic and need to program key fobs daily. If the total price of programming your key fobs at home exceeds the charges at a mechanic’s shop, then it’s better to make that trip to the garage.
3. Use Cases of the Key Fob Programmer
If you are well versed with car diagnostics and troubleshooting and regularly fix issues on your own, then the use cases of an automotive diagnostic scanner are many, and splurging on purchasing a good one makes sense. In this scenario, look for a tool that includes the key fob programming feature. Also, make sure that this module supports your vehicle brand and model.
Summing Up
In conclusion, a specialized tool like a key fob programmer isn’t the most cost-effective of purchases unless you’re looking for a quick-fix, simple transmitter and fob pair that works out cheaper than a trip to the mechanic. But, it is a must-have tool for car enthusiasts, automotive engineers, and professionals who love customizing vehicles, troubleshooting automotive issues, and program key fobs regularly.
