Push-To-Start Proximity Fob Programming

Programming a push-to-start fob is an incredibly technical process that cannot be done by an amateur. It requires interfacing directly with the vehicle's Controller Area Network (CAN bus). We connect specialized, dealership-level diagnostic tablets to your OBD-II port to safely navigate the vehicle's immobilizer menu. We force the computer into "learn mode," bypassing security pin codes, and successfully register the new fob's unique digital signature to the engine control module. We carry OEM-equivalent smart fobs for Ford, Chevy, Toyota, Nissan, Dodge, Jeep, Honda, and nearly every major manufacturer on the road in Iowa City, IA.

Emergency Blade Laser Cutting

Did you know every smart fob contains a hidden mechanical key blade? This little piece of metal is absolutely critical; if your car battery dies, the proximity unlock feature will not work, and this hidden blade is the only way to manually unlock the door so you can pop the hood and jump the battery. When we perform a key fob replacement, we do not just program the electronics and walk away. We meticulously laser-cut the emergency insert blade to perfectly match your vehicle's door cylinder, ensuring you are never truly stranded.

Fob Repair and Battery Diagnostics

Not every malfunctioning fob needs to be thrown away and completely replaced. If your vehicle dashboard is displaying a "Key Not Detected" warning, the issue might simply be a depleted CR2032 lithium coin battery, or a slightly desoldered micro-switch on the circuit board inside the fob. We provide thorough diagnostic testing of your fob's RF (Radio Frequency) output. We can replace dead batteries, swap out cracked plastic housings, and repair tactile buttons, saving you the high cost of a full replacement whenever possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

• If I buy a cheap key fob online, can you program it for me? While we can attempt to program aftermarket fobs purchased online, we strongly advise our customers against it. Online fobs are notorious for having cheap, faulty microchips that fail to sync properly or suddenly drop their programming while you are driving. We provide high-quality, OEM-equivalent fobs that come with a strict guarantee of functionality.
• What happens if someone steals my key fob out of my bag? If your fob is stolen, call us immediately. We will perform a Digital Security Reset. We hook our diagnostic computer up to your car, wipe the vehicle's memory of all previously programmed fobs, and then sync only the fobs currently in your physical possession. The stolen fob will be permanently deactivated and unable to start the car.
• Can you program a fob for a car that has an aftermarket remote starter installed? Usually, yes. However, aftermarket remote starters splice into the vehicle's complex wiring harness and can sometimes interfere with standard OBD-II programming protocols. Let our dispatcher know about the remote starter when you call so our technician is fully prepared.
• Why does my push-to-start car say the key is not detected even with a brand new battery? If the battery is brand new and inserted correctly, the fob may have "dropped" its programming due to a glitch, or the internal antenna inside the fob has broken from being dropped on the ground too many times. We can test the signal and either re-sync the fob to the ECU or replace it entirely.