When programming is needed
Almost every car built since the late 1990s has an immobilizer. A chip in the key (a transponder) must be recognized by the car, or the engine won't start even if the key turns. So programming is needed whenever a key is new: a spare, a replacement for a lost key, or a replacement fob. Remote buttons (lock, unlock, trunk) are programmed separately. Smart keys for push-button start need both the proximity function and the immobilizer programmed.
Key types we program
- Transponder key: thick plastic head, no buttons. Cut plus chip programming.
- Remote-head and flip keys: transponder plus built-in remote. Both parts are programmed.
- Smart / push-to-start key: proximity fob, usually with a hidden emergency blade.
Not sure which you have? The key finder tells you in four questions.
Keys and fobs you bought online
We can often program a fob or key you bought, but many online parts are the wrong frequency, the wrong chip, or used and locked to another car. Send us the part number before you buy and we'll tell you if it can work. If a part turns out to be incompatible, we'll have told you that risk before you bought it.
What we need from you
Photo ID and the vehicle's registration or title in the same name, the VIN (on the driver's side of the dashboard) and all the working keys you have. Some vehicles need every key present during programming, or the ones that aren't there stop working.
Dealer-only vehicles
Some newer vehicles restrict programming to the dealer. If yours is one of them, we'll tell you on the phone instead of sending someone out for nothing.
Who does the car key work
Car key cutting and programming is done by our automotive technician. You call or text Rocket Locksmith, we quote the price before dispatch, and the technician comes to your car. Lock work on homes and businesses is done by Rocket Locksmith directly.
What affects the price
- Vehicle make, model and year
- Key type (transponder, remote, smart key)
- Whether you supply the key or fob
- Whether cutting is needed too
The price on the phone is the price at the door. We quote the total before dispatch and you approve it before work begins. If something changes once we see the lock, we stop and tell you first.
- Lock or hardware typeA standard deadbolt, a high-security cylinder and a smart lock are different jobs.
- Vehicle and key typeMake, model and year; mechanical, transponder, remote or push-to-start key.
- ComplexityOpening a latch vs. a thrown deadbolt; one cylinder vs. a whole building.
- TimeEvening and short-notice work can cost more than a scheduled daytime visit.
- LocationHow far the nearest technician has to drive, and access (gates, garages).
- Required partsCylinders, locks, key blanks, chips and fobs, itemized on the invoice.
Where we do this
Car Key Programming across Broward County and Palm Beach County, plus North Miami-Dade. We're mobile and come to you. Local notes for your city:
HollywoodHallandale BeachFort LauderdaleDania BeachPembroke PinesMiramarDaviePlantationCoral SpringsPompano BeachDeerfield BeachBoca RatonDelray BeachBoynton BeachWest Palm BeachAll service areas
From our work
