How To Activate a New Car Key
What is Car Key?
A car key or an automobile key is a key used to open and/or start an automobile. Modern key designs are usually symmetrical, and some use grooves on both sides, rather than a cut edge, to actuate the lock. It has multiple uses for the automobile with which it was sold.
How To Activate a New Car Key
- Insert the key into the ignition, and turn it to the on position. Don’t turn on the engine, only the electronics.
- Leave the key in this position for 10 minutes and 30 seconds, and then turn it off.
- Turn the key back on, and wait for additional 10 minutes and 30 seconds before turning it off again.
- Repeat the process for a third time.
- Return the key to the on position, and it will program the key.
- Test your new key by turning on the ignition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I program my car key myself?
If your car is equipped with onboard programming, you will be able to program a new transponder key or a keyless entry remote by yourself. If you own a newer vehicle, most likely it would not be equipped with onboard programming, and it will require a professional key programmer.
How do I get my car key to work again?
You can try replacing the fob batteries, diagnosing the fob or towing the vehicle to a service centre to fix the issue. Car key not working in the ignition: If the key is working fine with the doors and doesn’t work when you insert it in the ignition, it may be a sign of a faulty ignition cylinder.
How do you know if your key needs to be reprogrammed?
If you’re not able to enter or start your vehicle using your electronic key, then it may need reprogramming.
How long does it take to reprogram a new key?
Programming can take anywhere from 2 minutes to 30 minutes depending on the type of vehicle. This almost always has to be done by your local car locksmith or dealership. Some vehicles can be programmed “on-board, which means anyone can do it if they follow a special programming procedure.
What happens when key is not detected?
A dead battery in your key fob means it can’t broadcast the signal the ignition system is looking for. If your car or truck can’t detect the correct signal, then the ignition will remain locked, and you won’t be able to start your car with the fob in your pocket.
Why is my car not reading the key?
A bad battery in the key fob is most commonly the reason for a failure to send signals to the keyless entry system. If it is available, use the spare key fob to open the vehicle and start the ignition. If the spare fob is not available, use the provided key embedded in the fob to unlock the door.
What causes the car key not to start?
If you have an older car, it is possible that your key is worn out. It’s the most common reason why car keys do not turn in the ignition. The pins inside the cylinder will not drop correctly, stopping you from starting the car successfully. If you have a spare key available, use it first.
Can a key be programmed without the car?
The answer is no. Using the OBD port is not necessary in some cases, but fobs and transponders can never be programmed without the car in the vicinity. This is because they always have to access the OBD using the port or in some other way so there is no way to get them remotely program.