AUSTIN AUTOMOTIVE LOCKSMITH

Lost Your Key Fob or Need a Spare? We Program It at Your Car.

Texas-licensed automotive locksmith, License #B19847, serving Austin and 36 Texas cities since 2010. Mobile service: no towing, no dealer wait.

License #B19847 · Family owned since 2010

Pros On Call technician programming a transponder key at a car door in an Austin parking lot, OBD-II diagnostic equipment visible, branded cobalt blue service van parked behind.
Licensed #B19847
4.9 Stars on Google
Mobile to Your Location
30-50% Less Than Dealer

WHAT WE PROGRAM

  • Transponder Keys

    Chip keys for most 1995 and later vehicles. OBD-II access to the immobilizer. 20 to 45 minutes on site.

  • Smart Keys and Fobs

    Proximity keys, push-button start, and remote entry for 2010 and later vehicles. Vehicle-specific programming sequences.

  • All Keys Lost (EEPROM)

    When every key is gone, we access the EEPROM directly to clear old codes and write new ones. No tow to the dealer required.

  • European and Luxury Makes

    BMW CAS/FEM, Mercedes EIS, Audi KESSY. Manufacturer-level diagnostic tools, not generic OBD scanners.

HOW CAR KEY PROGRAMMING WORKS

  1. Call With Your Vehicle Info

    Give us the year, make, model, and your location. We confirm coverage, quote the job, and dispatch before we hang up.

  2. Technician Arrives at Your Car

    We come to your driveway, parking lot, or roadside. No tow needed. Median Central Texas arrival: 14 minutes from dispatch.

  3. OBD-II or EEPROM Connection

    We connect professional diagnostic equipment to your vehicle's OBD-II port. All-keys-lost jobs on select models require direct EEPROM access at the BCM or ECU.

  4. Immobilizer Access and Key Pairing

    Manufacturer-specific software logs into the immobilizer control module. The new transponder code or smart key signature is added to the authorized list.

  5. Test All Functions

    We verify the key starts the engine, the security light clears, and all remote functions operate. Spare keys programmed in the same session at a reduced rate.

THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND THE SERVICE

Transponder Pairing, Rolling Codes, and Why a Dealer Is Not Always Necessary

Every vehicle built since 1996 in the United States is required to carry an immobilizer. The system works in two parts. The key contains a passive transponder chip, usually a Texas Instruments DST or Philips Hitag2 type, that draws power inductively from the ignition coil and transmits a unique code. The immobilizer control module, which sits on the CAN bus alongside the BCM and ECU, receives that code and compares it against its stored list. If the code matches, the ECU is granted fuel and spark. If not, the engine does not run, even with a perfectly cut metal blade.

Older systems, covering most vehicles from 1996 through 2010, use a fixed transponder code. Programming means adding the new code to the module's authorized list via the OBD-II port. Vehicles from approximately 2010 onward frequently use encrypted or rolling-code systems, where the transponder and module exchange a cryptographic challenge each ignition cycle. Programming these requires manufacturer-specific PIN or security-access codes that a generic aftermarket scanner cannot retrieve. Our equipment, Autel MaxiIM and XTOOL series, holds proprietary access to these systems through direct licensing agreements with OEMs.

All-keys-lost situations require a different path because the immobilizer module cannot authorize a new key without at least one existing key to confirm identity. We bypass this by reading the EEPROM chip, which holds the key table in non-volatile memory. On Ford PATS, GM Passlock, and most Japanese platforms, EEPROM access comes through the OBD port. On BMW CAS3 and newer, Volkswagen MED17 ECUs, and some Mercedes platforms, physical EEPROM reading from the soldered chip may be necessary. We carry both OBD and chip-reading hardware on every mobile vehicle.

  • Ford PATS, GM Passlock and Passkey, Toyota G and H chips, Honda PCF7936, BMW CAS3/CAS4
  • OEM-compatible blanks stocked on every vehicle: no waiting on parts orders
  • Manufacturer-level diagnostic access: not the same as a $30 ELM327 dongle
  • Aftermarket blanks verified for chip compatibility before programming begins

30-50%

Less than dealer pricing for the same programming result

1996

Federal mandate year: every U.S. vehicle since then carries an immobilizer

Since 2010

Texas-licensed family automotive locksmith

Texas DPS License #B19847 · Bonded · Insured

DEALER, MOBILE LOCKSMITH, OR DIY? COMPARE YOUR OPTIONS

Factor Dealer Pros On Call DIY
Typical cost, transponder key $200 to $400 $75 to $150 $0 labor, fails on most 2010+ vehicles
Typical cost, smart key $300 to $600 $150 to $300 Not possible without dealer-level tool
All-keys-lost capable Yes, with appointment Yes, same day No
Comes to your location No, tow required Yes, mobile service included N/A
Wait time 1 to 5 business days Median 14 minutes to arrival Hours of research, often fails
European and luxury makes Yes Most makes, confirm with VIN No
OEM vs. aftermarket blank OEM only, at dealer markup OEM-compatible, lower cost Buyer sources blank independently

Customers, on the work

Texas reviews.

Five-star work, in the customers' own words. No edits, no filters.

4.9 average across 1,423 reviews on our Texas Google profiles
  • I had “Pros On Call” change the locks on my home that I recently purchased. It was easy to get a hold of them, they made an appointment quickly and did a great job for a fair price. I had them come out about two weeks later and put a deadbolt lock on my front door as well and again - easy to get a hold of, they had to order an aged bronze deadbolt lock 🔐 but once it arrived they came out quickly, did a great job, were neat and it was a fair price. I highly recommend “Pros On Call” for all of your Locksmith needs! 5 Stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ for sure!!

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    Joe

    2 months ago

  • This guy come and help me at the last moment and be very professional and fair price

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    Sayed H.

    4 months ago

  • Josh was amazing! I called him when I was locked out of my car, and he arrived within 20 minutes. He was professional, fast, and had my car unlocked in no time. The whole process was stress free, and his pricing was fair. I really appreciate how quickly he came to help. Highly recommend Josh if you ever need a reliable locksmith!

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    Samantha C.

    5 months ago

  • Josh was awesome, he came to the rescue and I didn’t have to wait longer than 30 minutes in total. He also was incredibly kind and understanding of my situation. Dropped off my kids, and somehow my key fab went missing! Also gave me a discount!!

    Read more on Google

    Nicole S.

    a year ago

  • It sucks they charge an inconvenience fee of 49.00. Which I wish you would have mentioned this on our intial call. Transparency would have been to say hey we charge an inconvenience fee. Never once was this mentioned. When we spoke with the representative all she said was the locksmith will call you with a price. Never once did she say we take your payment info so we can charge you an inconvenience fee. If that was mentioned then this would have been handled differently. She made it seem like we need a card on file to help. Then they attempted to debit my card twice for two separate transactions for 49.00. I understand you run a business. But transparency is key. I specifically asked her what I would be charged for never once did she mention this. Lesson learned. Update***she reached out in regards to my Google review. Although I attempted to resolve per phone call. Shameless.

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    Alex B.

    3 months ago

  • Great service Ermi took less than 2 minutes. Thank you so much!

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    Jennifer S.

    4 months ago

  • Excellent service and high quality items! Roland was able to get me this key fob AND program it for a great price. Rechargeable fob is a lot more convenient than having to replace the battery every time it dies. Thank you !

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    Hector O.

    10 months ago

  • I have been a customer of pros on call for like over 2 years about and have had to call on them about 6 times. I had used several other locksmith in the prior 15 years but once Roland , one of many these pros came over I never use sny other locksmith service. I am very happy with this company I usually asks for Roland because I know him best and I have developed a kinda professional friendship with him but you can't lose no matter who it is that helps you. All top notch pros. I have called days and night. I am elderley snd lost my keys and I had some stolen. I would tell anyone that ask to call this company. You won't find any better. Here are a few keys Roland msde for me. I have 3 cars an a home. I have to locate my home keys do I didn't have the opputunity to take a picture of them but these here are greal examples.

    Read more on Google

    Kim V.

    10 months ago

  • Super great experience! Roland was very fast at getting to where I was. Overall he did an amazing job! Plus super affordable prices, you can't beat that! 10/10

    Read more on Google

    Shyla R.

    10 months ago

  • Locksmith Roland provided exceptional service at a affordable price point, and I highly recommend both the individual and the company. 💯

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    Rolando R.

    10 months ago

  • I had Zach come out to the property that I purchased out in Luling, Texas. It’s about 10 acres, and it has a garage with a corroded lock. Out of all the companies I have called, which is roughly 5 to 6. He was able to take my call, head out the next day, and take care of the corroded lock I need fixed on my property. He was extremely professional and helped me by giving me instructions on how to operate the lock as well! I’m in the military and not able to be in the area, so he was very understanding and professional. Highly recommend!

    Read more on Google

    G S

    a month ago

  • Josh was amazing!!! Got us back up and running with two new key fobs in less than 30 mins. He definitely knows his business and has the experience. Got a great deal and I will definitely be calling him the next time we are in need of assistance again. Thank you, Josh!

    Read more on Google

    TxCountryGirl

    2 months ago

  • Josh was a really good technician fast and prompt.... If this ever happens again (hopefully it doesn't )I'll be calling him.

    Read more on Google

    Ssk W.

    2 months ago

  • Zach got to me asap and even called to make sure we were communicating the right location of my truck! Within 10 minutes it was open and running! He’s the man! Thank you so much for the quick turnaround!

    Read more on Google

    mark V.

    3 months ago

  • Their response time was great. Orlando did a great job. No replacement parts were needed and repairs took an hour. I was badly disappointed at the high bill, even with a military discount. Maybe that is why I couldn’t get an approximate estimate before Orlando came. Bottom line : good work, too expensive

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    Frank K.

    3 months ago

  • Very helpful and super friendly. They were able to unlock my door in minutes at an affordable price! Even offered spare key services!

    Read more on Google

    Isaiah V.

    a week ago

  • Miguel was very professional and efficient in his work he was very easy to work with and quick in doing his job

    Read more on Google

    Jhantem T.

    2 weeks ago

  • The locksmith was quick and very efficient, got me back on the road on no time!

    Read more on Google

    Abraham R.

    3 weeks ago

  • He was very fast, was able to make me a key and a spare when I was stranded

    Read more on Google

    Nora P.

    a month ago

24/7 ON CALL

Stuck? Don't wait. Median Central Texas response: 14 minutes.

Pricing for this service is custom-quoted

Specialty work like this depends on parts, building type, and scope. Call for a precise price or send the details and we will quote within the hour.

Licensed #B19847. Free phone quotes.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How does transponder key programming work?

Your key contains a small chip that broadcasts a unique code when it enters the ignition. The vehicle's immobilizer control module compares that code to its authorized list. If it matches, the engine starts. Programming teaches the module to recognize a new chip's code. We connect diagnostic equipment to the OBD-II port, access the immobilizer system using manufacturer-specific software, and add the new key's code to the authorized list. On most 2010 and later vehicles this takes 20 to 45 minutes on site.


What is all-keys-lost programming and why does it cost more?

All-keys-lost programming applies when every key to the vehicle is gone. Normally, adding a spare key uses an existing working key to authorize the new one. Without any existing key, we cannot use that shortcut. Instead we access the vehicle's EEPROM, which is the memory chip that stores the authorized key list, read its current data, erase the old key codes, and write new ones. On some makes we do this through the OBD-II port. On others, including many European models, we must physically read the EEPROM chip from the BCM or ECU. The process takes 60 to 120 minutes and requires specialized hardware not carried by most mobile locksmiths. We do. Cost typically runs $200 to $500 depending on make and model.


Does a dead key fob battery require reprogramming?

Rarely. Replacing the coin cell battery in a key fob does not erase programming on most vehicles built after 2005. The transponder chip is passive: it draws power from the ignition coil's radio frequency field, not the fob battery. The fob battery powers only the remote lock and unlock buttons. If your vehicle does not start after a fob battery swap, check that the battery is seated correctly and the contacts are clean. If it still will not start, call us. A small number of European models, particularly older BMW and Mercedes, can lose transponder pairing after a complete battery drain. We diagnose it on site.


Can you program a key I bought online or from a parts store?

Often, yes, if the blank is the correct OEM or compatible aftermarket chip type for your vehicle. Bring the cut-but-unprogrammed key and we program it at your location. We verify chip compatibility before starting: the wrong chip type cannot be forced to pair, and some cheap aftermarket blanks use counterfeit chips that fail midway through programming. If you are unsure, let us supply the blank. We stock OEM-compatible transponder blanks for Ford, GM, Toyota, Honda, Nissan, Hyundai, and most domestic makes.


Will programming a new key erase my other keys?

No. Adding a new key to the authorized list does not remove existing keys. Your other programmed keys continue to work normally. The only exception is all-keys-lost programming, where we must clear the old key codes before writing new ones. Since those keys are gone, clearing them causes no practical problem.


How much cheaper is a locksmith than the dealer for key programming?

Typically 30 to 50 percent less, sometimes more for smart keys and luxury vehicles. A dealer transponder key for a 2018 Honda Civic runs $200 to $300 including programming. We program the same key for $75 to $150 depending on whether you supply the blank. Dealer smart key programming for a 2022 Ford F-150 with Intelligent Access runs $350 to $500 at the dealership. Our mobile rate is $150 to $250, and we come to your driveway or parking lot. You also skip the tow if you have no working key.


Do you program keys for BMW, Mercedes, and other European vehicles?

Yes for most models. European vehicles use more complex immobilizer architectures than domestic makes. BMW CAS and FEM modules, Mercedes EIS, Volkswagen and Audi KESSY systems all require manufacturer-level diagnostic tools, not generic OBD scanners. We carry Autel MaxiIM, XTOOL, and Yanhua ACDP equipment that covers the major European platforms. Call with your VIN and we confirm coverage before dispatch. A small number of late-model models with dealer-only key registration may require a dealer step; we will tell you if that applies before any work begins.


Can you reach Round Rock, Cedar Park, or Georgetown for mobile key programming?

Yes. We dispatch mobile automotive locksmith service to Round Rock, Cedar Park, Pflugerville, Georgetown, Leander, Kyle, Buda, San Marcos, and 36 Texas markets. Mobile service is included in the programming price. No towing required. Call us with your vehicle location and we route the nearest technician.


Pros On Call Austin automotive locksmith cutting and programming transponder key on site

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Texas-licensed automotive locksmith, License #B19847. Mobile programming at your location. No tow required. Call now.

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