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Which Keys Can Locksmiths Program?
Most newer cars made after 1990 have four types of keys and/or remotes that will require programming for the car to run:
- Transponder Keys – These have a programmable chip embedded within the plastic head to start the car.
- Remote Key Combos – A programmable chip is embedded in the casing of the key head, which also contains a remote able to lock/unlock doors and/or trunks.
- Smart FOBs – Proximity keys for push-start vehicles.
- Standalone Car Remotes – Lock/unlock only. Some are self-programmable, some are not.
💡 Pro Tip: We service most car makes and models with in-store or with mobile programming. If your car can still drive, visiting one of our Phoenix-area shops is the most affordable key option – no mobile fee!
In-Store or Mobile Programming in Phoenix Metro
Visit one of our full-service lock shops for quick and cost-effective car key programming.
- 🏪 Phoenix: 4143 N 16th St, STE 3, Phoenix, AZ 85016
Mobile programming for: Phoenix, Glendale, Peoria - 🏪 Mesa: 4448 E Main St, STE 3, Mesa, AZ 85205
Mobile programming for: Mesa, Apache Junction, Gold Canyon, Queen Creek - 🏪 Scottsdale: 7118 E Sahuaro Dr, STE A, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
Mobile programming for: Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills - 🏪 Gilbert: 81 S McQueen Rd, STE 102, Gilbert, AZ 85233
Mobile programming for: Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe
📞 Call ahead or stop by – our friendly automotive locksmiths are ready to help you program your car key quickly and affordably. For in-store service, we ask that you arrive at least one hour prior to closing.
Vehicle Brands Supported:
We program most American and Asian models including Ford, GM, Chevy, Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Hyundai, Kia, Nissan, Jeep, and more.
🚫 Note: Late-model German vehicles (Mercedes, BMW, VW, Porsche, etc.) typically require dealership programming. For model years prior to 2005, give us a call, and we will let you know.
How to Order a Replacement Key Fob
If you need a new fob:
- Order it through ACME Locksmith (or call and we’ll help you find the right one).
- We’ll ship it directly to your home.
- Once you receive it, bring it to us for cutting and programming.
⚠️ Be cautious with used fobs bought online. They may contain old data and require re-flashing to work with your vehicle.
Car Programming Costs in Phoenix
- Programming Fee: $79-159, depending on vehicle (GM cars can be the most expensive due to programming fees passed on to the locksmith from the manufacturer)
- Add-ons: Cost of fob/remote, blade cutting.
💡 Tip: Always keep two working keys. Losing your only key may require a car key origination – often 3-10x the cost of a key duplication and programming.
How Locksmiths Program Keys/FOBs
When you start a modern car, it sends a signal to the car key or fob. The key / fob returns a signal to the car. If the signal isn’t recognized, the car won’t start. This is an anti-theft feature that prevents someone from just forcing the ignition over with a screwdriver and starting the car.
Locksmiths use commercial programmers tools to:
- Plug into your vehicle’s OBD-II port
- Select the correct method for your year, make, and model
- Pair the new key/fob with your car’s computer
- Test functionality to ensure success
Many systems require advanced software to avoid triggering the vehicle’s security system. DIY programming can risk locking you out permanently.
When you cannot self-program your keys (either because a self-programming process doesn’t exist, you don’t have the required number of operating keys or the tools/computer/software needed is too expensive), you’ll need to find an automotive locksmith (or dealer) to assist you.
Most US and Asian car companies share their programming protocols with auto tool manufacturers so that they can develop software and hardware that allows them to program their car keys.
Can I Program My Car Key?
On Board Programmable Keys
Some vehicles let you program a new key or remote yourself, and the instructions are often in the owner’s manual. However, in many cases, you can only program the remote functions—like locking and unlocking the doors or trunk. You can’t program the part that starts the car unless it’s connected to the vehicle’s computer using special tools. So, while your remote may work, the engine won’t start without full key programming.
Processes and procedures to program your key/FOB will vary, and the ability to self-program may require one or two already-programmed keys.
Check if You Can Program Your Own Key
Visit Our Car Keys & Remotes Website.
Search for your year make and model.
Select the key that matches your key.
If you can program it, there will be a “Programming Instructions” tab that provides the details of how to program (see screenshot).
If you cannot program the key or remote that tab is not shown.
What Customers are Saying About Our Programming Service
Customer reviews shown on our site are copied exactly as written on Google. This may include spelling or grammar errors. We keep them unedited to preserve the authenticity of the customer’s original words.
ACME Locksmith
4448 E Main St #3, Mesa
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I have been using Acme for many years and at previous locations. Always knowledgeable, quick and fair. Today, Carter was no exception. He provided options, detailed the work, and completed the programming and cutting quickly and accurately. Oh, and he opened the store 5min early – greatly appreciated! … More
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I learned about acme locksmith from Christian Brothers automotive! My key fob was old and despite battery changes just really wasn't working as optimally as it should. I called several places, including the dealership and auto nation. They were quoting $500 and more to replace the fob. I reached … More out to Acme, and they explained a very simple process: go online, use the serial number inside of my key fob to match to a model on their website, order the product, wait for it to arrive, and come in with more than an hour prior to closing time if you'd like to have the key cut. I read a little too much into it, trying to match a number I didn't need to worry about, so Carter graciously handled three phone calls of mine with questions to the business before even programming or cutting my key. I talked to several different people that either own or help operate this business and everyone was super kind to me. They didn't treat me like a lady who didn't know what she was doing! When I came to get my key cut, I had my three kids with me and they thought the shop was amazing, although I don't recommend it for kids if you're a parent! There's so much to look at & touch. That's OK, because Carter was very gracious to answer their silly questions like, why do you cut keys!? Just for price comparison, we did end up having to spend $1100 on replacement key fob for our 2016 Mercedes GLC 300. And certainly no fault of acme locksmith, that was a dealership price. Cars that old need to go through the dealership especially the Germans! Thank you everyone for a really great experience. Hopefully I don't need to replace my key fob anytime soon, but you can bet I'll be sending my friends!
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ACME Locksmith is one of the very few locksmith shops you can go into. Just about all were mobile and will tack on an additional fee just to get to you. I ordered a proximity key fob online. My car is equipped with push button ignition start. The fob came with directions to program it but I first had … More to go to locksmith or dealer to get it cut. Found ACME thru Google and Shawn helped me out right away and cut the key. When I got to my car I was following the directions that came with key but it wouldn't program. After awhile Shawn came out and started to help me but still car wouldn't start. We tried and tried. We were there a while trying to figure it out together and then suddenly success! My car is a Buick and the key fob indentation in center console to program new keys is facing the wrong way (door to door). Turned the fob so it was now oriented hood to trunk. It started when ignition button was pressed. We both gave a sigh of relief and happy. I'm recommending this place to everyone I know. You know, he didn't have to come out to try and help but he did. He's a pretty cool guy. Thanks Shawn! The first 2 pics shows how we placed the key cause that's what the indentation indicates the key should be, but it didn't work. Second pic is the position we moved it to. That worked. Hope this helps someone that finds themselves in the predicament I was in.
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My daughter handed me her key fob in pieces a few days ago. Oh fun! We checked around and settled on Acme and are so glad we did. Carter was very knowledgeable, helpful and reasonably priced. I would strongly recommend them to anyone.
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Wonderful Customer Service!!!!
Spoke with Charlie first. I explained my situation about my car key (FOB). I was informed that i only needed a shell. Charlie even helped me place my order for a shell key and was very patient and kind. He also got intouch with Carter at the East Mesa location. Carter also … More Wonderful!!! Called me and informed me about the arrival of my shell. Sameday service, Carter also checked if my new FOB key worked after he put everything together. Customer service is amazing from beginning to the end. Thank you so much!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a locksmith test if my car remote is working?
Yes, locksmith can test if your car remote is working. Drop by any of our locations – we’ll test it for free. If it’s just the battery, we’ll replace it on the spot. If there’s no signal, we’ll recommend next steps. We never push replacements unless absolutely necessary.
My car key blade broke, do I need an entire new key / fob?
If your car key breaks, in many cases a locksmith can simply replace the shell of the key. When replacing a key shell, we will remove the electronics from the existing key to put in the new shell. By doing this, you won’t need to do any programming. We can then duplicate your broken key to the new blade or provide a code-cut key using the VIN.
Which vehicles can ACME program keys for?
We program most American and Asian makes, including Ford, GM, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Kia, Hyundai, and more. For late-model German cars like Mercedes, BMW, or VW, dealership programming is usually required.
What if my car isn’t drivable?
No problem. If you need key programming our mobile locksmiths can go to your location anywhere in the Phoenix metro area. We’ll dispatch the nearest tech to get you back on the road.
Will you program key fobs I buy online?
Yes, ACME Locksmith will program a car key, remote or fob that you bring to us. However, since we didn’t supply the part, we have no way of knowing if the part is the correct one for your vehicle or if the part is any good. So we will bill up front, non-refundable to cover the cost incurred when we attempt to program it.