Key Programming

0800 107 7880

Please call Timpson Locksmiths on 0800 107 7880 if you have a transponder key or key programming enquiry and wish to discuss further.

What is a Transponder Key?

A transponder is a chip in the head of your car key which, when inserted into the ignition, sends a signal telling the Engine Control Unit (ECU) that it is okay for the car to start because the correct key has been used.

The transponder sends the signal from the chip in the key to the antenna around the ignition and then from the ignition antenna to the vehicles ECU. On receiving this coded message the ECU gives the go ahead to the starter motor, ignition and fuel systems.

When the Timpson Auto-Locksmith Arrives?

If the transponder key has been lost or stolen, our Auto-Locksmith will initially need to gain access to the vehicle. Once inside the vehicle, the Auto-Locksmith will make a physical working key and then locate the diagnostic port (ODB), which is connected to the ECU – usually within a meter of the central consol and sometimes difficult to find.

Once located, the Auto-Locksmith will plug specialist software into the ODB – Timpson Auto-Locksmiths carry different connectors/leads for different cars, as programming is not possible with out the right connector. Once plugged into the ODB port, the programming software needs a code – the PIN Number.

For the majority of vehicles our Auto-Locksmith will have software allowing the extraction of this PIN number or PIN code, however if the code cannot be extracted then it will need to be sourced from the Manufacturers main dealer*. Timpson Locksmiths can obtain the pin code for a variety of vehicle makes and models on a customer’s behalf.

Please call Timpson Locksmiths on 0800 107 7880 if you have a transponder key or key programming related enquiry and wish to discuss further.

Roadside Assistance

In most cases we can conduct all work on the roadside. Actually cutting a key for a vehicle can be quick if the code is available – codes are often sourced from documentation in the owner’s own handbook. If this is not an option and the code needs to be sourced from the dealer* or through one of our direct sources, we can arrange an alternative, convenient time to revisit you.

In most instances our Locksmiths can gain entry, remove and strip the lock, make the physical key, reassemble and refit the lock and finally program the immobilizer keys or central locking/alarm remote control fobs in less than two hours.

Obtaining the Transponder Key from a Main Dealer

If our locksmiths are left with no choice but to obtain the transponder key code directly from a main dealer i.e. you have a new vehicle make or model, or a sophisticated vehicle security system, the dealer will normally require proof of ID & proof of ownership for your vehicle, such as your driving license & V5 registration document.

As the vehicle owner, you should be able to source your transponder key code from the main dealer on the day of request, however, it can often take several hours to come through and main dealers often charge a premium for supplying transponder key code information.

Timpson Auto Locksmiths may be able to save you significant time and hassle by obtaining the transponder key code on your behalf. Please call Timpson Locksmiths on 0800 107 7880 to find out if we can obtain the code for your particular vehicle.

The main benefit of allowing Timpson Auto-Locksmiths to carry out the re-programming of your transponder key is that our Auto-Locksmiths not only come to you, rather than you going to the dealer, but are usually by far the cheapest option.

... However, we Cannot Program all Vehicle Transponders

Some main dealers will not release the transponder codes to allow for the re-programming their transponder keys. Information may not be available via dealers on certain models, specific model years, and even different types of ECU that may have been fitted in the same year in the same models – upgrades for example. In these situations we would inform you that you have no choice but to take your vehicle to a main dealer.

Tel. 0800 107 7880

e-mail: callcentre@timpsonlocksmiths.co.uk