How long does it take to program a car remote key?
2 Answers
Here is the introduction to the time required for programming a car remote key: 1. Variation: The specific time may vary slightly depending on different vehicle brands and other factors. 2. Key programming: If it's just about programming an existing key (without adding a new one), the time required to match the original key with the vehicle's anti-theft system is not very long. Generally, it takes about 2 to 3 hours, but this is under the premise of having professional diagnostic equipment and skilled technicians. 3. Lost key: If a key is lost and you need to add or replace a key or change all the lock cylinders, the required time will be longer because it involves the security of the anti-theft system.
Last time I got a key made for my old Toyota, the whole process took about half an hour. The technician spent most of the time copying the transponder chip signal, while cutting the new key blank was pretty quick. Nowadays many cars have electronic anti-theft systems that require specialized programming equipment for matching. Some luxury cars can be more troublesome – like my friend's BMW that had to go to the dealership for matching authorization certificates, which took three days from start to finish. For key duplication, it's better to find a professional shop. While roadside stalls might be cheaper, there's always the risk the anti-theft system might fail someday.
