Auto Locksmiths could soon be looking for a new job if this one catches on!

A California company Tuesday will announce an iPhone application and car receiver that will enable users to lock, unlock and remotely start their car with the phone rather than the car’s key fob.

The system — which works on any car with electric windows and locks, but does not require an existing remote start feature — includes a receiver that is installed in the car. It’s going on sale at Best Buy stores for $499.

Our verdict? This opens up a huge hole for hackers and car thieves and proves a potential security risk. You may never lose your car keys again, but you may find your car is missing instead, so steer clear of this crazy idea.

Following on from our previous post “How to program a Ford key fob” we now explain the programming method for the Transit van.

Ford Transits and the Transit Connect van operate with separate square remote fob.

The remote utilises three buttons

1) Lock

2) Unlock

3) Unlock back and side door independently

Pressing the lock button twice will double lock the vehicle and set the deadlock.  This is an extra security measure meaning the vehicle will not open when the handle is pulled from the inside.

Whilst the Transit van is supplied with a separate fob it is possible to program a key with a built in fob like the the Ford Focus.

The key used to start the vehicle can only be programmed with a diagnostic tool.  If you require a replacement Ford key take a look at our Ford key section here http://www.theautolocksmith.co.uk/Ford-car-keys.html

The remote can be programmed with no specialist tools utilising a manual procedure as follows:
- Insert a programmed key into the ignition
- Turn the key from the off to on position 8 times
- You will hear the vehicles locks cycle
- Press any button on the remote
- Again you will hear the locks cycle
- Turn the key to the off position and remove from the ignition
- Wait 10 seconds and test the remote
- Job done!!

We can supply and program Ford remotes at your vehicle.  If you need a Ford key or remote why not give us a call… We are cheaper than Ford main dealers and save you the hassle of loosing your car for 2 hours whilst in their workshop.

Many remote key fobs can be programmed with a manual procedure that does not require any specialist equipment.  This article will explain how to program a remote fob for a Ford vehicle.

A Ford remote key consists of three main parts:

1) Mechanical blade to operate the lock barrels

2) A transponder chip that is programmed to the vehicle to disable the immobiliser

3) A remote fob that operates the cars central locking system from the push of a button

Parts 1 and 2 require specialist locksmith tools to cut and program the key.  Part 3 however, can be replaced and programmed by you!

Here’s how….

• Put a programmed key into the ignition
• Turn the key to position 2
• Now turn the key from position 2 to 1 four times, ending on position 1
• An audible beep should sound confirming the car is now ready to be programmed
• Press either of the two buttons on the remote and listen for another beep to confirm programming
• Now turn the key back to position 0 and remove from the ignition
• Wait 30 seconds and then test the remote

Job done!!!

If you only have a manual key for your car and would like a remote fob then give us a call.  The Auto Locksmith is able to provide stand alone remotes that do the need to be built into a key.  This allows you to add a remote fob for considerably less than the cost of purchasing a full remote key from a Ford dealer.  For more info on Ford keys take a look at our Ford car keys section of the website.

More “how to” fob programming guides will be added soon.