European Car Key Programming FAQ

European Car Key Programming Questions Answered

I lost all the keys to my BMW. Can you make a new one?

Yes, in most cases. When every key is lost we connect to the car on-site, read or reset the access module (CAS, FEM or BDC depending on the car) and program a new key to it. We ask you to verify ownership before any key is made. See BMW key programming and car key replacement.

Can you program a Mercedes key without the dealer?

Yes. Mobile programming of Mercedes-Benz keys is a core part of our work, including all-keys-lost situations on most models. The car stays where it is parked and we come to it. Details are on our Mercedes-Benz key programming page.

What is ELV failure?

ELV is the electronic steering lock found on many Mercedes-Benz models. When it fails the car may refuse to start, the steering may stay locked and the dash may show a steering-lock message. We diagnose the fault and, where appropriate, program or replace the unit. See ELV in module programming.

Do I need to tow the car?

No. Key programming, module programming and diagnostics are done where the car is parked. That is the point of a mobile service: we bring the equipment to you in Bloomfield or a nearby town.

Can you program a used ECU or BCM?

In many cases yes. A used engine or body control module usually has to be matched to the car's immobilizer and, on some vehicles, coded to the car. We confirm what is possible for your specific vehicle before we start. See ECM programming and BCM programming.

What diagnostics do you do?

We scan every module we can reach for fault codes, check immobilizer and key faults, trace no-start and crank-no-start problems, look at module communication faults, and check ELV and EIS faults. Full list on European car diagnostics.

Which towns do you cover?

Bloomfield and surrounding towns within about 5 miles: Glen Ridge, Montclair, Nutley, Belleville, Newark (North Ward), East Orange, Orange, West Orange, Verona, Cedar Grove, Clifton and Lyndhurst. See all service areas.

What are your hours?

Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed Sunday. Call (973) 943-0786.

Can you program a smart key for an Audi or Volkswagen?

Yes, on most models. Many Audi and Volkswagen vehicles use KESSY keyless entry and start. We program new smart keys to the car and can work on the related modules when needed. See Audi key programming and Volkswagen key programming.

Does it change anything if all keys are lost?

It changes the method. With a working key we can add a spare to the car. With no key, we have to access the immobilizer or access module directly, which takes more steps. Either way the work is done on-site.

My key is not detected or the immobilizer light stays on. What does that mean?

Common causes are a weak or failed key, a fault in the key reader or antenna, or an access module problem. A diagnostic scan tells us which. See key programming and diagnostics.

What is module cloning, and is it the same as replacing a module?

Cloning copies the data from a faulty module onto a replacement so the car treats it as the original. Replacing a module normally means programming the new one to the car. Which approach suits your car depends on the module and the fault. See module cloning and coding.

Do you work on cars that are not German or European?

European and German cars are our focus. We also do some general automotive locksmith work. Call (973) 943-0786 with the vehicle and the problem and we will tell you whether we can help.

What should I have ready when I call?

The year, make and model, what the car is doing, how many working keys you have, and where the car is parked. That lets us tell you what the job involves.