How to program a spare key with the new Autel MaxiiM KM100 Key Programming Tool.

Electronic car keys, also known as chip key transponders were first introduced in the 1990s

With the aim of providing car owners convenience and security for their vehicles. Electronic keys come in different shapes and sizes, and  range from two buttons to up to eight buttons. Each key must be programmed to an individual vehicle before they can be used to start the car’s ignition.
This also works alongside with the car’s immobilizers system, which protects the car from thieves. Key programming may sound quite intimidating, but it can be simple when you have the right tools.

In this article, we are going to take you through the essential steps needed to program a spare key.

We are using the Volkswagen Polo (2010-2014) as our chosen vehicle for demonstration.

Here is a list of things you will need to carry out this task.

First, a quick introduction on the Autel MaxiiM KM100

The Autel KM100 is a well designed, fast and compact key programming tool that combines OBD IMMO programming, universal key generating, key renewal, transponder editing and other services into one. It’s light with a strong quality feel. It uses an android based operating system, (Android 9.0), which makes its interface very user-friendly.

The device features a 5.5 inch touchscreen display with a Bluetooth VCI, capable of programming keys, as well as Autel IKEY as a smart replacement for more that 700 vehicles. It also offers Immobilizer programming capability for numerous vehicle brands including BMW, Volkswagen, Toyota and Honda to name a few. Other additional innovative features include key renewal and transponder editing of up to 20 supported protocols.

The KM100 boasts with a lot of useful functions, here are some of the notable key functions

  • 60-Second Key Generation (Autel Universal Only)
  • Key Renewal: Supporting 36 Vehicle Makes
  • Transponder Reading/Writing/Cloning
  • Frequency Detection & Ignition Coil Detection

The Autel KM100 Kit Includes

 

  • KM100 Wireless Tablet
  • 1x OBD Adapter (MaxiVCI V200)
  • 2x Universal Keys (3 buttons and 4 buttons key)
  • Power Adapter
  • 1x KM100 Key Generator
  • 1x Hard Shell Carrying Case
  • Custom mini USB cable (for key programming)

Be sure to check out wide range of Autel Products

In order to successfully program a spare key, the new key will need to be cut using a key cutting machine, which uses the original key as a blueprint.
It is vital that this is done correctly or else, the new key will not be able to turn the ignition. Before you start with the key programming, make sure to test cut the key on the vehicle’s locks (door lock, ignition and boot lock).

Programming your new Blank Key

After having successfully cut your new key and tested it on all the locks on the vehicle, you are now ready to begin with the key programming process.

 

  • Switch on the device by pressing and holding the Lock/Power button that is located on the right side of the device.

     

  • Make sure that the device is updated to the latest firmware. Updates can be easily made by connecting your device to the internet using the built in wifi system and accessing the update section on the main menu.

Getting Started

  • Locate the OBDII port on your vehicle. Most vehicle’s OBD II port are located below the dashboard on the driver side.
  • Insert the VCI  into the designated DLC (Diagnostic Link Connector) also known as the OBDII port. Wait a few seconds for the light on the VCI to turn green, this  means that the VCI is ready for use.
  • Using the old (original key), turn the car ignition onto the ON position, but do not start. This will allow the VCI to connect to the vehicle’s system.
  • Make sure that the connection between the VCI and Tablet has been successfully established, by either pairing them wirelessly via bluetooth, or by using the provided USB-C to USB-C cable.
  • Once the connection between the car and the KM100 tablet has been established, proceed by selecting the IMMO function on the main menu.

Auto VIN selection and vehicle Identification

After selecting the Auto VIN Detection, the programming tool should automatically acquire the vehicle’s VIN number with the help of the VCI that’s connected to the OBD II port.

-This can also be done by manually typing in the vehicle’s VIN number or by scanning it using the KM100 built-in rear camera.

The vehicle’s VIN number will appear onto the screen. Press read for the device to decode the VIN.

A region (market list), model and year of production of the vehicle will appear on the screen.
Please make sure to select the correct region your car is from e.g (Europe Polo 2010-2014).

Then wait for the system to perform a quick data analysis.

After the data analysis has been completed, you will be asked to confirm the vehicle’s profile, which will be displayed: Area, Model, Year and VIN.
– If all the information above appears to be correct, proceed by pressing Yes”.

The system will redirect you to the main menu, where you’ll need to complete the IMMO scan.

IMMO (Immobilizer)

IMMO status scan: This function allows the device to make connection with the vehicle’s immobilizer system, which will then learn and retrieve all the necessary data in order to correctly embed it into the new key. The scan will be performed automatically by the device.

  • Once the immobilizer status scan is complete, make sure to clear any faults/errors that may appear after the scan, by pressing DTC quick clearance to ensure that the new key works correctly with the vehicle’s immobilizer system.

After having cleared all faults/errors, the device will display the vehicle’s anti-theft information.

  • Progress by pressing “Save”, this will copy the vehicle’s anti-theft information. You can also take a screenshot or a picture with your phone for reference, to cross check if all the information is correct when you are about to import it into the new key.

After saving the Immobilizer data, you’ll be redirected to the main menu, on which you will proceed with the key learning function.

Key Learning

Tap on Key learning and make sure to correctly select whether the car uses keyless (KESSIE) entry or not. In our case, we click “No”.

  • Select the number of keys that need to be learned. In our case we will pick 2. and continue by pressing “Ok”.

Wait for the device to finish establishing communication with the vehicle. 

  • Once the communication has been fully established, Insert the keys that need to be learned into the ignition switch (in sequence) within 30 seconds and turn ON. the keys should be changed at an interval of less than 5 seconds. Starting with the old key, then followed by the new key.

  • Once complete, turn the ignition off using the new key and wait for 5 seconds, then turn the ignition switch to ON and wait for another 5 seconds before starting the car. After having programmed your key,  make sure that all the buttons on the remote/fob are working correctly.

Congratulations, you have successfully programmed your new spare key.

This process is fast and easy thanks to the KM100’s user-friendly interface that provides you with instructions, every step of the way.
Depending on your vehicle, programming a car key can be very easy or a little bit more complicated.
Keep in mind that having the right tool and the necessary knowledge is crucial when it comes to key programming.
That being said, with a little time, patience and determination, you can learn to program a key without needing an expert and  save a bit of money at the same time.

We hope that this article has been insightful and has provided you with enough information about the Autel KM100 and everything you need to know to program a car key.

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We at autosupply have a wide range of key programming tools, as well as other car related products, make sure to visit autosupply.co.za to browse through our product range.

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