Frustrated by dealership costs to program a new smart car key? You’re not alone. Many car owners seek alternatives to avoid hefty service fees. While professional services offer convenience, programming a smart car key yourself can be a viable option for those comfortable with DIY solutions. This guide, based on a real user experience, outlines the steps to program a new smart car key using readily available tools.
This method utilizes the Xentry/DAS diagnostic system along with a TAN code generator. Please proceed with caution and ensure you understand each step to prevent any issues with your vehicle’s immobilizer system.
What You Will Need
Before you begin, ensure you have the following:
- Xentry/DAS Software: Version 3.2012 (or similar compatible version).
- Multiplexer: A compatible multiplexer (like C3 clone) to connect your laptop to your car.
- Laptop: Running Windows and compatible with Xentry/DAS.
- AVT1.4 TAN Code Generator: Software to generate the necessary TAN code (available from online forums, like mhhauto.com).
- TANLogfix File: To enable key teach-in function within the TAN generator (also from mhhauto.com).
- New Smart Car Key Fob: The new key fob you wish to program.
Step-by-Step Guide to Program Your Smart Key
Follow these steps carefully to program your new smart car key:
- Initiate Xentry/DAS: Start your Xentry/DAS software on your laptop.
- Connect Hardware: Connect your multiplexer to your laptop and then to your vehicle’s diagnostic port.
- Navigate to Key Teach-in: Within DAS, navigate through the system menus to locate the key programming function. Typically, this is found under: “system” => “EDG control unit” => “Control unit adaptations” => “Immobilizer” => “Teach-in key again”.
- Read Instructions Carefully: Pay close attention to the on-screen instructions provided by DAS. Missteps in this process can lead to complications.
- Generate Request Code: Proceed by pressing “F3” as prompted by DAS. This will generate a request code necessary for the TAN code generator.
- Calculate TAN Code: Open the AVT generator software. Enter the request code obtained from DAS into the “key teach-in” field within the AVT generator. Click “calculate” to generate the TAN code.
- Enter TAN Code into DAS: Enter the generated TAN code into the designated field in DAS. Confirm by pressing “okay”.
- Key Synchronization: Immediately after the TAN code is accepted, and within 30 seconds, press the “lock” button twice on each key fob you want to program (including your new key and any existing keys you want to ensure still function).
- Complete and Test: Once you return to the main DAS menu, the programming process should be complete. Exit DAS/Xentry and test all programmed key fobs to ensure theyLock and unlock your vehicle correctly.
Conclusion
Successfully programming a smart car key yourself can save you a significant amount compared to dealership services. This guide provides a pathway based on user experience, but remember to exercise caution and double-check each step. DIY car key programming involves working with your vehicle’s sensitive immobilizer system, and mistakes can lead to complications. Always ensure you are comfortable with the process and have the correct tools before attempting to program your smart car key.
Disclaimer: This guide is based on a single user experience and is provided for informational purposes only. The process may vary depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and the specific versions of software used. Proceed at your own risk.
