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Help & Guides

Car Key Programming

Every chipped or remote key has to be paired to your car before it’ll start the engine. For a lot of vehicles you can do it yourself in minutes; for others you’ll want a locksmith. Here’s how to tell which you need.

Programming Guides

Find your make’s programming guide

Exact, model-by-model steps and which keys you can program yourself — pick your make below.

AcuraAudiBuickCadillacChevroletChryslerDodgeFordGMCHondaHummerHyundaiInfinitiJaguarJeepKiaLand RoverLexusLincolnMazdaMercedes-BenzMercuryMitsubishiNissanOldsmobilePontiacSaturnScionSubaruToyotaVolkswagen

First, which key do you have?

This is the biggest factor in how your key gets programmed. The product page for your key lists the type, FCC ID, and buttons, so it’s easy to match.

Transponder / remote-head key

A cut metal key with a chip inside, sometimes with buttons on the head. Often DIY-friendly if you already have a working key.

Remote / flip key with a fob

A fold-out or separate remote. The buttons usually program with a simple sequence; the chip side may or may not.

Smart / proximity key

The push-to-start fob you keep in your pocket. These almost always need a locksmith or dealer tool, even with a working one.

Two ways to get it programmed

Depending on your car and key, you can often handle it yourself — or hand it to a pro.

Often DIY

Program it yourself

Many domestic models — Ford, Chevy, GMC, Buick, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram — let you add a key with no tools if you already have one or two working keys.

  • You usually need one or two keys that already work.
  • Remote buttons are easiest, often DIY even when the chip isn’t.
  • No working keys left? That’s a locksmith job.
  • Check your owner’s manual, or send us your year, make, and model.
Locksmith

Have a locksmith do it

Some keys need a professional with the right equipment. Go this route if any of these apply:

  • You have a smart / proximity (push-button start) key.
  • You’ve lost all your working keys.
  • You drive a European make — Audi, VW, Mercedes, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover — programmed by a specialist locksmith, not the dealer.
  • Bring proof of ownership (registration or title plus your ID).
Find a trusted locksmith near you

Which path is mine?

A quick reference for the most common situations.

Your key or situation Route
Transponder or remote-head key, and you have a working key Often DIY
Remote buttons only Usually DIY
Smart / proximity key (push-button start) Locksmith
All keys lost Locksmith
Audi, VW, Mercedes, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover Specialist

Frequently asked questions

Can I program a car key without any tools?
Sometimes. Many domestic models let you add a transponder or remote key on-board if you already have one or two working keys, no tools required. Smart keys and all-keys-lost situations need a locksmith.
Do I need the dealer to program my key?
Usually not. A good auto locksmith can program almost anything a dealer can, often cheaper and at your location. For European makes like Audi and VW, a specialist locksmith is actually the right call, since the dealer won’t pair a key it didn’t sell.
How long does key programming take?
On-board DIY programming takes a few minutes once you have the sequence. A locksmith visit is usually 15 to 30 minutes, including cutting the blade if needed.
Will my new key start the car right out of the package?
No — a chipped or smart key has to be programmed to your specific car first, and the blade may need cutting. Plan on one of the two routes above before it’ll start the engine.
What do I need for a locksmith to program my key?
Proof the car is yours: your registration or title plus a photo ID. A trustworthy locksmith will always ask, which protects you and your vehicle.

Got your key picked out?

Find your exact match and we’ll ship it fast, ready to program.

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