Frequently Asked Questions

OEM keys are manufactured by your vehicle's original maker and match factory specifications exactly, ensuring full compatibility with immobilizer and security systems. Aftermarket keys cost less but may have slight variations in build quality or features. For vehicles with complex smart key systems, OEM keys often provide more reliable long-term performance.

Key deletion removes the lost key's programming from your vehicle's computer system, preventing it from starting the car even if someone finds it. The process uses dealer-level software to access the vehicle's security module and erase the key's unique signature. This is recommended whenever keys are lost or stolen to prevent unauthorized vehicle access.

Transponder keys communicate with your vehicle's immobilizer system through a chip that doesn't require battery power—the battery only powers remote lock functions. If the key won't start the car but still locks doors, the transponder chip likely lost its programming or the vehicle's antenna ring failed. Diagnostic testing identifies whether reprogramming or module-level repair is needed.

Yes, Registered Vehicle Security Professionals with dealer-level software can program smart keys on-site for most makes and models. The process syncs the key with your vehicle's push-to-start system and immobilizer, just like dealership programming. Mobile service eliminates towing costs and typically costs 30-50% less than dealership rates.

Diagnostic tools test the key's signal output, check programming status, and measure the vehicle's receiver response. This identifies whether the problem is a dead chip, lost programming, weak vehicle antenna, or faulty ignition module. Testing prevents unnecessary key replacement when reprogramming or minor repairs would solve the issue.

Module programming updates or repairs the vehicle's security computer itself, not just the key. It's needed when the immobilizer module fails, after certain electrical repairs, or when adding keys to vehicles with encrypted systems. Standard key programming only syncs keys to an existing working module.

Specialized extraction tools grip the broken key fragment without pushing it deeper or damaging the lock cylinder. The ignition is assessed for internal damage before extraction begins. Once removed, the lock can be decoded to cut a new key on-site, and any damage from the break is evaluated to prevent future issues.

Adding a spare while you still have a working key costs significantly less because programming is simpler and there's no emergency service premium. If your only key fails or gets lost, you'll need lock decoding or module programming, which takes longer and costs more. Vehicles with complex smart key systems benefit most from proactive spare key creation.

Mobile units stock common key blanks and can access OEM keys for most makes and models through manufacturer networks. Keys are cut and programmed on-site using portable equipment and dealer-level software. For rare or luxury vehicles requiring specialized blanks, keys can typically be sourced and installed same-day.

The warranty covers key functionality, including programming integrity and physical key operation. If the key stops communicating with your vehicle or the cut wears prematurely under normal use, it's replaced at no charge. The warranty doesn't cover physical damage from drops, water exposure, or battery replacement for remote functions.

Decoding reads the lock cylinder's internal pin configuration to determine the correct key cut without an original to copy from. Specialized tools measure pin depths through the keyway or by partially disassembling the lock. This lets locksmiths create a working key from scratch, then program it to your vehicle's immobilizer system.