Technical terms for automotive locksmiths
Showing 50 of 50 terms
Electronic system that blocks engine start if the key is not recognized.
Passive chip inside the key that responds with a secret code when energized by the antenna. No battery.
Coil that reads the key chip. Also called 'coil' or 'ring antenna'.
Standard diagnostic port (16 pins) where programming tools connect.
Critical situation: no working keys remain. Requires special procedures.
Process of teaching the car to recognize a new key.
Very common crypto transponder. Clonable with common tools.
Classic VAG transponder. Some versions clonable, others not.
Modern transponder with AES encryption. NOT clonable, only programmable with valid data.
Modern Honda/Acura transponder. Online programming required.
Modern Ford/Mazda/Lincoln chip. Requires PATS procedure.
Toyota chip with DST-AES encryption. Very secure.
Basic Texas Crypto chip. Clonable.
Old Ford/Mazda chip. Clonable.
More secure version of 4D63. Requires programming, not directly clonable.
The transponder always sends the same code. Easy to clone but insecure.
The code changes with each use following an algorithm. More secure than fixed code.
Advanced Encryption Standard - modern 128-bit encryption. Impossible to break by brute force.
40-bit Digital Signature Transponder encryption. Medium security.
Improved 80-bit version. More secure than DST40.
Very common rolling code algorithm in remote controls.
Copy the exact code from one chip to another. The car sees both keys as identical.
Create a new valid code for the car. The chip is added as an additional key.
A universal chip mimics the behavior of another chip.
Prepare a virgin chip with specific data before programming it to the car.
Secret 4-7 digit code needed to program keys.
20-24 character code used in modern VAG. More complex than a PIN.
Old VW term for the programming code.
Ford PATS system: outcode comes from the car, incode is calculated to program.
Challenge-response: the car gives a 'seed', the tool calculates the 'key'.
Original factory/dealership key. Most compatible and secure.
New unprogrammed key. The chip can accept programming.
Reduced permissions. Can be lent without giving full access.
Main key with all permissions. Can program other keys.
Limited key: doesn't open glove box, trunk, or has speed limit.
Intelligent key that doesn't insert. RF communication, push-button start.
Key with folding blade.
Body control module. Sometimes handles the immobilizer.
Engine Control Unit - engine brain. Stores part of immobilizer data.
Central module that filters CAN communication. Can block unauthorized programming.
Non-volatile memory where critical data is stored (CS, PIN, immo data).
Main communication network between vehicle modules.
VW modular platform since ~2012. Highly protected immobilizer.
VW online diagnostic protection. Requires certification and online ODIS access.
Special data needed to program ID88/MQB48 with aftermarket keys.
Keyless Entry Start System - VAG commercial name for proximity system.
Number sequence that defines the cut depths of the key.
Uncut key with the correct keyway for the vehicle.
2-in-1 tool to open and decode car locks.
Popular brand of tools and aftermarket keys.