What tools do locksmiths use to program car keys?

[signcrafter]

What tools do locksmiths use to allow them to program multiple makes of vehicles? I could have used one many times in the past and want to look into weather a decent one that can do most makes of vehicles might be worth it to own. Any locksmiths on here have experience with different programmers? I see some are dirt cheap and some get expensive really quick.

 

[kniptastic]

I work as the key guy for a used car dealer. We use an Advanced Diagnostics SmartPRO to program all our keys, everything from proximity on higher end stuff to just remotes on GM vehicles. It works much better than the MVP Pro that we used previously. Its nice not having to look up what program module each vehicle needs and you don't have to have the 13 or so modules, of which you use 3 or 4 99% of the time. The issue with other programmers in my experience has been that the company doesn't have the correct programming or they haven't cracked the vehicles particular security system. In that case, we have to take it to the appropriate dealer to get it programmed. Usually that only happens on vehicles that are only a few years from start of production with a new security type.

Hope I was helpful.

 

[signcrafter]

Yes that was helpful. Wasn't what I was hopping to hear though. Was hopping there was something for maybe 5-600 bucks that would do most common cars. Still waiting to hear from another company what they have to offer.

 

[jeffmoss26]

We use a programming device that is connected to a desktop PC with proprietary software from the keyblank manufacturer. Some keys are onboard programming but the majority require the computer. I don't have any experience with the scan tools or handheld programmers.