Car manufacturers make car keys hard to duplicate to deter thieves. This video explains what goes into making a car key copy for car owners who may have lost a key or need a duplicate. Most cars today use electronic key fob technology, meaning that the key has to be programmed in order to work with the car.
Aftermarket auto locksmiths can make a remote key for many vehicles but may not be able to for some of the latest and higher-end cars. If they can make the key, they will first cut the key so it can turn in the door and ignition.
The second step is fitting and programming an immobilizer chip that prevents the engine from starting unless the correct and authorized key is used. The key is uniquely coded to the engine's ECU so that if the key does not match the code in the ECU, the ECU will not activate the fuel system and ignition circuit. Therefore, after fitting the immobilizer chip, the auto locksmith's third step is to synchronize the car key to the ECU. The whole process usually takes about 30 minutes or less.
