Updated: June 2023

OVERVIEW

Welcome to the article all about programmers, we were expecting you as programmers are a big conversation here at Tom’s Key Company, -because you know… we create spare keys that almost always need some kind of programming/ pairing.  Allow us to jump right in.

What is a programmer, how does it work, and why is it needed?

Let’s start with the biggest and most obvious questions:

What is a programmer?: A programmer here at Tom’s Key usually has a rectangular form and exists to pair a new key to your vehicle.

Why do you need one?: Essentially because without a programmer you have “A” key but not “The” key for your vehicle. Without a programmer you essentially have a shiny kabob that may open your doors, but outside of that won’t give you full functionality of your vehicle. 

How does a programmer work?: All vehicles need the key of their vehicle to communicate with their vehicle. In order to create this communication you need a programmer. Think of the programmer as a mutual friend of both the car and your new key, and the programmer is doing an introduction of a soon to be new and long awesome friendship with many miles of adventure ahead of them.

Why are there different types of programmers?

It should be no surprise that different vehicles have different ways of doing things, this means different programming systems. This is the reason why there are different types of programmers and it really comes down to what kind of vehicle you have. But at Tom’s Key Company we keep it simple and offer 3 different types of programmer possibilities, again all depending on your vehicle type.

What are Tom’s Key 3 different types of programmers?

The 3 different types of programmers that Tom’s Key Company offers are the TSL programmers, the EZ Installer, and the Simple Key variety. 

What are the differences between the 3 different types of programmers?

Let’s break it down:

TSLs: When referring to the TSLs we are talking about both the TSL-1 and TSL-2. These type of programmers are specifically designed for Toyota, Scion, and Lexus vehicles, hence the name “TSL.” They will only program vehicles of these types. So if you have any of these brands you will either need a TSL-1 or TSL-2. (To know the differences between a TSL-1 and TSL-2 we will cover this in a more detailed article focused only on the TSL programmers in the near future).

Important note: (TSLs are rentals that come with a fully refundable deposit fee found at check out.)

EZ Installer: The EZ installer has a large use case for mainly American cars, but this is not the rule nor its sole definer, but is just what comes to mind on how to easily define this programmer for general audiences. It is however one of the more exciting programmers because it has the capability to program a lot of different cars and it is a product that continues to evolve with its vehicle capabilities.

Important note: (EZ Installers are rentals that come with a fully refundable deposit fee found at check out.)

Simple Key: Simple Key focuses on providing “kits” which come with both key and programmer in one purchase. Each key kit can program up to 8 times and can be very useful for future use cases as this is a programmer you keep rather than rent.

Important note: (Simple Key Kits are programmers that are purchased and kept by the customer.)

What programmer is right for me?

To know what programmer is best for your vehicle follow Tom’s Key vehicle selection tool. Once you input your vehicle's information you will be given the best options for your vehicle, this includes the type of programmer needed for this endeavor. 

What do I need to program a new key?

The following are all things required to make sure programming can go smoothly:

Matching part numbers, FCCID, and items: 

For this you can use our vehicle selection tool. It does the work for you and moves your selection into smaller categories specifically for your make, model, and year of your vehicle. From here you are thrown back a small list of items that will show you all compatible items. It is important that within this list given back you, you still make sure that all part numbers and FCCIDs match your current key, although the parts may look similar to what you have.

Can one programmer program all of my vehicles?

The most truthful answer is “maybe.” It really all depends on what kind of programmer is available for your vehicle.

In the case of Simple Key Kits the programmer can only program one vehicle only, as this type of programmer pairs to your vehicle’s vin and will not allow for further programming on any other vehicle.

For the TSL you will have the option to program multiple vehicles, so long as the vehicle you own can be paired by these tools. 

For the EZ Installer, this particular rental programmer pairs with the vin of the vehicle being programmed and needs to be cleared back at our facility, therefore you will not be able to program multiple vehicles with this rental.

Can one programmer program multiple keys?

So long as it is the same vehicle and your vehicle's memory allows it, yes.

How much is a programmer?

What is a deposit fee? How much is the deposit fee?

What if I already have a key, can I still use your programmer to have it programmed?

Again, the most truthful answer is “maybe.” Our programmers have only been tested with our own keys, as testing with the many types of keys out in the world would be a near impossible feat. However, in theory and from what we see in our business most often, it is that this endeavor works out most of the time, however we cannot guarantee it as a feature of our product. 

Do programmers have warranty and guarantees? What are they?

One of the great things about Tom’s Key Company is our desire to have our customer come out on top. We do this by offering low prices, guarantees, and warranties that prove our commitment to our products and our customers.

Tom’s Key 90 Day Warranty - If you encounter any issues with your Tom's Key products, do not fret Tom's Key Company has your back for 90 days from the date of purchase.

Tom's Key 90 Day Warranty can be fully reviewed here.

Have any other questions or concerns?

If we missed anything, don’t hesitate to contact us at [email protected], we look forward to speaking with you and getting you back on the road with peace of mind.