Can you program car keys with OBD2 scanner?

If you’ve ever lost a car key (or just wanted a spare), you probably heard that some people program new keys using just an OBD2 scanner.

(Go here to see scanners with KEY programming)

Sounds cool, right? But how does that actually work?

Let me break it down.

What “Key Programming” Actually Means

Modern car keys aren’t just metal—they’ve got chips inside. That chip talks to the car’s immobilizer system and says, “Hey, it’s me, let me start the engine.”

When you program a key, you’re doing one of a few things:

• Adding a New Key – You already have one working key and want to add a second.
• Cloning a Key – You copy the chip from an existing key to a blank one.
• All Keys Lost (AKL) – No keys at all. Now you need to program the car from scratch. That’s a whole other level.

You can also:

• Delete old keys (like if you lost one)
• Program remotes (for lock/unlock or push-start)

Can You Really Do This with an OBD2 Scanner?

Yes but not with every scanner.

The key programming part usually works through the OBD2 port, but not just any $20 scanner will do it. You need a tool with IMMO functions (immobilizer access).

There are entry-level tools that can add or clone keys on common cars like Toyota, Honda, Ford, etc. But for more advanced stuff, like programming a brand-new smart key when all keys are lost, you need higher-end gear.

Here’s a simple rule:

The newer or fancier the car, the more complex the system.

If it’s a 2005 Corolla? Pretty easy.

2022 Mercedes with push-start? Good luck. That one needs special adapters and often dealer-level tools.

What You Can (and Can’t) Do

✅ What most DIY key tools can do:

• Add spare key (when you have one)
• Clone keys for older cars
• Delete old keys from memory
• Pair a new remote

❌ What they usually can’t:

• Handle smart keys on Euro cars
• Work on cars with locked security gateways (like newer Chrysler/Stellantis)
• Program keys when you have zero working keys without PIN codes or EEPROM work

What You’ll Need

1. OBD2 IMMO Scanner – Something like the XTOOL D7 or VVDI Key Tool Max is solid for budget users.
2. Correct Blank Key – Must match your car’s chip type and FCC ID.
3. Basic Internet Access – Some tools need to connect online to pull a PIN.
4. Patience – Key programming can be trial-and-error, especially on newer cars.

Don’t Use the Wrong Tool (Or You Might Brick It)

Here’s a real warning: Trying to program keys with a cheap tool on a car it doesn’t support can lock you out completely.

You might trigger anti-theft mode or corrupt the immobilizer. So always check if the scanner supports your exact car model and year before hitting “Program.”

✅ Recommended list of OBD2 scanners with KEY programming

Final Tip: Keep It Simple at First

If you’ve never done key programming before, start with a car you already have a working key for. Try adding a spare.

Don’t jump straight into All-Keys-Lost on a push-start BMW unless you’re ready for some real locksmith-level stuff.

Also, check if your car has a security gateway (like 2018+ Chrysler). You’ll need a bypass cable or AutoAuth login to do anything.

Best OBD2 scanners in 2025

I constantly test new OBD-II scanners to give you the best options possible. Here is a full list of the best tools in all categories currently.