How to Program Keyless Remote Without Original. All Methods

Losing a keyless remote can be a nightmare. Not only does one have to purchase a blank key similar to the original one, but one also has to program it to activate the lock and unlock system, alarm system, and even starting the car.

Ignition problems highlights

• Level of urgency:high
• DIY inspection:possible but complicated
• DIY repairs:usually,impossible
• Can you drive?no
• Price of repairs:$5 - $350
• If ignored:no start
• Ways to fix:check batteries, try another key fob, inspect and locate the issue

How Does the Keyless Remote Function?

A keyfob or a keyless remote is a handheld security device that automatically operates a remote keyless entry system. It facilitates access to a car, building, or a computer system. Owners can unlock and lock the keyless entry system with a press of a button. In cars, the keyless system helps enforce security by remotely opening and closing the car.

The distance that one can open the door from the car depends on the signal range of the system. It also starts the car and other functions, such as turning off the alarm system and popping the car's truck. 

The keyfobs are simple and tiny, so many car owners prefer to hang them on their keychains. Keyless remote system uses a mix of digital encryption and radio frequency. Older keyless entry systems used radio frequency (RF) technology. This typically means they operated on a frequency of 315 and 433 MHZ.

The downside to the system is that signal manipulation and easy code make it prone to theft. There was also an infra-red system in the BMW and Mercedez car brands. The system was also vulnerable to third-party interference. In other instances, it could fail to unlock the car. 

Modern remote keyless entry system uses a technology that involves an electronic control unit(ECU) and a transponder. A transponder is a wireless communication device that receives signals and responds with a different signal. The keyfob system has an edge over previous systems in that it's much safer.

You can also use it to start the car. It works with an inbuilt microchip that you find at the key's head. For it to start the car, it needs to be programmed. It receives frequency from the antenna ring or frequency receiver when the key is inserted into the ignition and turned to the on position. 

The chip then transmits an identification code to the antenna ring. After receiving the code, the antenna ring relays it to the ECU, determining if it matches the code stored in the computer's memory. If the codes match, the ECU turns off the immobilizer, making the vehicle start.

Modern keyfob systems also include a smart keyfob with wider signal coverage than a transponder key and run on battery. You don't have to insert the key into the ignition to start the car. It only requires presence in the car and pressing the engine start button.

How Do You Program a Keyless Entry Remote System Without Original

There are various methods of programming a keyless Entry Remote System without having to use the original key. The methods include self-programming, programming the keyless remote to immobilizer, and consulting an expert locksmith or dealership. Let's look at each method in detail. 

Self-Programming

It's also referred to as on-board programming. With self-programming, you can program the keyfob yourself without needing a specialized tool. Some cars may not support this type of programming; hence, it's wise to confirm with your owner's manual before you begin the programming.

Some programming steps may also vary for car models and require referring to your owner's manual. This programming method requires a working key and a keyfob. If you've lost the original key, purchase a blank one for the programming procedure. You can purchase it online, at Autozone, or at the dealership. While purchasing, ensure the key is specific to the car's make and model.

Here are the common steps to self-program the keyfob.

• The first step to self-programming is to ensure you use new keyfob batteries. Used or drained batteries may delay or stall the frequency transmission process, making the procedure ineffective. You can easily access the batteries at an auto parts store or key repair shops.
• Get into the vehicle with the keyless remote close to your locks and steering wheel. Also, ensure you close all the doors.
• Insert the key into the ignition cylinder and turn it one notch clockwise to get to the on position (lights come on in the dashboard). Avoid putting it into radio mode and also starting the engine. Switch off the ignition to the off position. Turn the key back to the on and off position a number of times in rapid succession until you hear an audible door locking or a chime from the instrument cluster. This signifies a successful entry into the programming mode. The number of times you turn the key on and off will depend on your vehicle model. For instance, programming a Ford requires you to cycle the ignition eight times, while a Chevy and GM require doing it only twice. Removing fuses, opening the car door, and repeatedly inserting and removing the key are also ways of activating the programming mode in other car models. The time frame in which you repetitively cycle the ignition also matters. Failing to cycle the ignition key within the specified period ends the programming sequence.
• The next step is to press one of the keyfob's buttons within 10-30 seconds of the system entering into programming mode. You should observe flashing lights, and hear the door locks cycle, or chime. This signals that you've programmed the keyfob successfully.
• After completing the process, switch off the ignition and remove the key.
• Test the keyfob's functionality by getting out of the vehicle and pressing the lock and unlock button to see whether it's working. You can repeat the procedure or use other methods if it's not functional. The programming procedure to configure the central lock system(locking and unlocking the door) is pretty easy. However, programming for the immobilizer(involved in the car start-up process) is a different ball of wax. That may require the services of the dealership or a professional locksmith.

How to Program the Keyless Remote to the Immobilizer

An immobilizer is a security device that works with the ignition system to ensure the correct keyfob starts the car. This means the unique code that the keyfob's transponder chip sends should match the code in the immobilizer.

If the code doesn't match, the immobilizer turns off the ignition system, and the car won't start. Like the self-programming, programming the keyfob to the immobilizer also depends on your car model and make. Before you begin programming, ensure you have the correct tools for the process. This includes the diagnostic tool, owner's manual, keyfob, and the required adapters and cables.

Below are some general steps to program the keyless remote to the immobilizer. 

• Connect the diagnostic tool to its port. Its location depends on the car type. You'll likely find it under the steering wheel or the dashboard for most cars.
• Go to the menu and locate the immobilizer system option in your diagnostic tool.
• Accessing the feature will require you to key in a specific code or follow a series of steps to activate the programming mode. You can acquire the code in the owner's manual, or you'll have to contact the original equipment manufacturer(OEM)
• Once you initiate the programming process, you'll encounter some prompts or another set of instructions on the diagnostic tools. Use the prompts to complete programming your keyless remote to the immobilizer.
• After completing the programming process, disconnect the diagnostic tool and test whether the keyfob is functional.
• Press the lock and unlock button and try to start your car with it to see whether it's working.

Consulting an Expert Locksmith or the Dealership

Consulting a skilled locksmith is the most viable option when you've lost the keyfob, broken the chip, or damaged it. Not only will the locksmith replace the original keyfob through cutting, but also program the key for you. This means you don't need the original key to get a replacement. Seeking the services of a locksmith can also be a cheaper alternative than the dealership. This allows you to get your money's worth at a fraction of the cost. 

In case you lost the original key through theft, the locksmith can also come in handy in reprogramming that makes the lost key lose its function. Without the original key, the locksmith can also convert a generic key into a custom one through programming.

Keys with transponder and smart keys tend to be more expensive to replace than infrared and RF keys. The complexity of reprogramming the key fobs also depends on the car brand and model. Some car brands are harder to program and require you to pay more. 

Dealing with a locksmith or dealership requires you to give out the proper information to prevent someone who's not the car's owner from getting the keyfob. Some of that information includes

• Key Identification Number (the number is present in the car owner's manual).
• Vehicle Model, Make, and Year
• Proof of Ownership, such as registration.
• Vehicle Identification Number (To check your number, you'll see it on the metal plate on the doorpost or dashboard on the driver's side. It's also available in official documents like registration, title, and insurance card.

The dealership also has specialized tools and hardware for programming a keyless remote. Apart from the dealership being more expensive than a locksmith, programming through the dealership may also take longer. 

Bottom Line

There you go-methods of programming keyless remote without original. Different vehicle models and makes have different instructions for the methods of programming. This means you should first refer to your owner's manual to check the instructions compatible with your car. If you lack the tools or skills to program your keyless remote, visiting the dealership or locksmith for programming is best.