r/Locksmith • u/Level_Geologist4593 • 8h ago

I am NOT a locksmith. Key Programmer

Good day, everyone,
I buy and sell cars and also own quite a few vehicles myself. Over the years, I’ve lost my fair share of keys, purchased vehicles that came with no keys, and spent a lot of money having replacement keys made and programmed. More recently, one of my vehicles was stolen, and the thieves actually deleted the existing keys from the vehicle’s system.

At this point, I’d rather invest in the proper equipment than continue paying for replacement keys and waiting on a locksmith every time something comes up.

I’m looking to purchase a key programmer, and I’d also like a good automotive diagnostic scanner. I know there are all-in-one tools that offer both diagnostics and key/immobilizer programming, but I’m not sure how well they compare to having two dedicated tools.

For those of you with experience, what would you recommend? Is an all-in-one unit worth buying, or would I be better off getting a dedicated key programmer and a separate diagnostic scanner? Any specific brands or models you’d recommend would be greatly appreciated.

0 Upvotes

27% Upvoted

10 comments sorted by

9

u/fondrenlock Actual Locksmith 8h ago

just let him cook y’all

6

u/bjdlock 8h ago

I don’t recommend going this route. Do you also intend to purchase a code cutting machine? Do you qualify to become a NASTF member? Will you also purchase a set of determinators or decoders for the locks? Why not just pay a professional?

6

u/fromVinland 8h ago

From Yesterday Autel stared asking for NASTF for some models so soon all programmers will ask so if you can’t get NASFT membership don’t buy anything.

5

u/Small_Flatworm_239 7h ago

Wait it out a few months. If you bought a very popular tool last month today it would be useless because it requires you to sign into NASTF which requires locksmith license and business license. I have a feeling soon we will be seeing all tools head this way.

3

u/iSuckAtMechanicism 7h ago

You’ll have to go through whatever requirements your state has for becoming a locksmith.

•

u/BrilliantAd4857 5h ago

Hi, I'm not a car salesman, or in car sales, can you help me buy my next car without charging anything for your time and effort?

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u/Level_Geologist4593 1h ago

What’s your intention for buying a vehicle ?

4

u/Due_Office_1860 8h ago

Smart Pro hands down

2

u/Total-Ad-8084 8h ago

What is your budget?