Glossary

Add Key Instruction Time

The add key time is the total estimated time required to add (program) an additional key when the vehicle already has at least one working key. This estimate covers the full job — not just the on-vehicle programming. Give customers and technicians a single, realistic time figure that reflects all these steps so appointments and quotes account for cutting, programming, system entries, power setup and verification.

Aftermarket Keys

Aftermarket keys are third-party replacements that replicate OEM functionality at a lower price. Compatibility should always be verified before programming.

All Keys Erased Automatically

Some vehicles will erase all previously stored keys during certain programming procedures or system resets. In the Carkeyhelper context this specifically means you must have all existing keys present when performing key programming — if a programming step requires existing keys and they are not present, the vehicle will remove those keys from its memory.

All Keys Lost

When all keys are lost, new keys must be generated and programmed from scratch. This often requires EEPROM work, lock decoding, or advanced diagnostic tools.

All Keys Lost Instruction Time

All Keys Lost Instruction Time is the total estimated time required to create and program new keys when the vehicle has no working keys remaining. This single realistic estimate covers the entire process — not only the final programming

Car Immobiliser System

The immobiliser system is the car’s built-in anti-theft system that prevents the engine from starting unless the correct key or transponder signal is recognised. It is a vital part of vehicle security. In the Carkeyhelper service, the System entry specifies the exact immobiliser type used in that particular vehicle, such as EWS3, CAS3, Immo3, or other manufacturer-specific systems. This information helps identify the correct programming method and compatible key type.

Also known as: system

Decoder Capability

Decoder capability describes what types of locks a specific decoding tool can work with.

Double Locked

Double locked means that when the vehicle’s doors are locked, they cannot be opened from the inside using the interior door handles. This enhanced locking feature provides extra security and prevents entry even if someone tries to pull the handle from inside the door panel. Because of this system, traditional unlocking methods such as using an airbag (air wedge) and hook tools from the outside will not work, and alternative opening or decoding techniques are required.

EEPROM Bench

EEPROM bench programming involves reading and writing data directly from the vehicle’s memory chip outside the car. It’s used when OBD programming is not possible, such as when all keys are lost.

Emergency Key

The emergency key is a small mechanical key blade stored inside a smart key fob. It allows manual door unlocking or ignition access in case of power or fob failure.

Integrated Transponder

An integrated transponder is built directly into the key housing and is physically attached to the remote control circuit board. This means the transponder cannot be removed or replaced separately. In most cases, when the transponder is programmed, the remote is automatically programmed together with it.

Key

A key is the physical device used to unlock and start a vehicle. While keys can generally be mechanical, transponder-based, or fully electronic, in the Carkeyhelper service the term Key (when listed under Key Types) specifically refers to a traditional mechanical key for older vehicles — a blade-only key without any electronic components or transponder chip.

Key + IR

A key with infrared (IR) combines a mechanical key and an infrared transmitter. The IR signal may be used for remote locking or communication with the vehicle’s control units.

Key Code Series

The key code series is a numbered or lettered range used by car manufacturers to define the cutting pattern of a key. Knowing the code series allows precise cutting without removing the lock.

Key Profile

A key profile defines the physical blade shape and groove pattern that determines which locks a key can operate. Matching the correct profile ensures proper cutting and fit.

Key Remote Frequency

The remote frequency (e.g. 433 MHz or 315 MHz) is the radio frequency that the key fob uses to communicate with the car. Matching the correct frequency is essential for proper remote operation.

Key Slots

The number of key slots indicates how many keys can be programmed into a vehicle’s immobiliser system. Some systems allow up to eight keys; others only two.

Lock Decoders

Lock decoders are professional tools that read the internal pattern or code of a car lock without removing it. They help locksmiths create new keys when no code is available.

Market Reference Price

The market reference price indicates the typical retail or service cost for a key or programming job, based mainly on data from the Finnish market but providing a useful reference more broadly as well. In Carkeyhelper, “All Keys Lost” prices refer to the total cost including two new keys, while “Add Key” prices indicate the cost for one additional key when a working key is already available.

OBD Programming

OBD programming means programming new keys via the car’s On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) port using a diagnostic tool. It’s a fast and safe way to add keys for most vehicles.

Original Keys

Original keys (OEM keys) are made by the vehicle manufacturer and guaranteed to match the car’s system and quality standards.

Picking Direction

The picking direction shows whether a lock turns clockwise or counterclockwise when unlocking. This helps locksmiths apply correct tension and technique during lock picking or decoding.

Power Supply

During OBD key programming, a stable power supply is essential to prevent voltage drops that could interrupt communication with vehicle modules. In the Carkeyhelper service, the use of an external power source or booster is always recommended, especially when battery voltage is below 11.5 volts. If the listing shows “Mandatory”, a stable power supply is required for safe and reliable key programming to avoid data loss or immobiliser faults.

Remote Cloning

Remote cloning duplicates the remote control signals of an existing fob so another fob performs the same lock/unlock functions.

Remote Key

A remote (or remote fob) is a handheld device used to control a vehicle’s central locking, trunk release, or alarm system via radio frequency. In the Carkeyhelper service, when listed under Key Types, Remote refers specifically to a stand-alone remote control unit — not combined with a mechanical key blade.

Remote Programming

Remote programming is the process of teaching a new remote or key fob to the vehicle’s system so that it becomes recognised and functional. Unlike synchronising, which restores a previously paired remote, programming adds a completely new remote that is not yet stored in the vehicle’s memory. This procedure allows the new remote to operate functions such as locking, unlocking, and trunk release.

Remote Synchronizing

Remote synchronizing refers to restoring the function of a previously programmed remote that has lost communication with the vehicle — for example, after a battery change or voltage drop. It is not a programming process, but a re-synchronisation procedure that re-establishes the connection between the remote and the car so the buttons again operate lock, unlock, and other remote functions correctly.

Resistor Key

A resistor key uses a specific electrical resistance value in the key to identify it to the vehicle’s immobiliser. These are commonly found in older GM and other legacy models.

Separate Transponder

A separate transponder is a removable chip located inside the key shell. It can be transferred or replaced without changing the entire key.

Skill Level

A skill level rating helps technicians estimate the difficulty of a key job. Level 1 is simple (Transponder cloning), while level 5 involves complex EEPROM or module work.

Slot Key

A slot key is designed to be inserted into a slot on the dashboard or console. It may include a transponder chip or remote function. Slot keys are used on certain European and Japanese vehicles.

Smart Key

A smart key is a wireless key fob that allows keyless entry and push-button start. It communicates automatically with the vehicle when nearby, letting drivers unlock and start the car without inserting the key. Smart keys are also known as proximity keys.

Transponder

A transponder is a small electronic chip that transmits a unique identification code to the vehicle’s immobiliser. Without a recognized transponder code, the engine will not start.

Transponder Cloning

Transponder cloning copies the data from an existing transponder chip to a new one, creating an identical working key without reprogramming the vehicle.

Transponder Key

A transponder key is a car key that contains a small electronic chip (transponder) which sends a coded signal to the vehicle’s immobiliser system. When the correct code is received, the car starts. Transponder keys are standard on most modern vehicles.

Transponder Key + IR

A transponder key with infrared includes both a coded transponder chip and an infrared transmitter, offering dual communication with the car’s immobiliser and remote systems.

Universal Keys

Universal keys are programmable aftermarket keys or remotes designed to work with multiple vehicle brands and models. They are cost-effective and flexible but require correct setup.