Transponder security first made its way into the domestic car market when the 1986 Corvette included a VATS security system. There were 15 different VATS values and it was a matter of testing each of the 15 values until the correct one was found. From this small beginning, transponder types and security levels have increased to the point we are at today. Each type of transponder can have millions of values which removes any possibility of using the old VATS trial and error system. Special programming tools and often a connection to the internet are required before present-day vehicle key servicing can be accomplished.
One group of vehicles is presently using an 80 bit transponder chip made by Texas Instruments. Vehicles using this T80 chip include various models of Ford cars, Ford trucks, Lincoln, Hyundai and Kia. According to a press release, "Ilco is pleased to introduce the first worldwide 80 bit transponder cloning solution for Ford, Hyundai and Kia models that are using Texas 80 bit transponders. Locksmiths can also provide cloning and/or pre-coding for Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Toyota and Subaru keys. The simple read/write cloning procedure takes less than five minutes. "
Samuel Adams, Kaba Ilco regional North American automotive product manager, explained the cloning process. "The process is very easy for cloning the TI 80 bit transponders for Ford, Hyundai and Kia models. There is neither a need to use a Snoop nor for the vehicle to be present. You would simply read the existing key, the unit will advise the expected wait time and once accepted begins the encryption cracking process. Once done you will insert the T80 Plus transponder and write the algorithm to the new chip. Insert the chip into the appropriate key shell, cut the key, and you are ready to start the vehicle."
Programming tool components required include either an RW4 Plus or Ilco EZ-Clone Plus machines which then must be paired with an Ilco M-box. Older RW4-EZ-Clone with Plus Box machines are not usable for programming the T80 Plus.
A free software update completes the package. Software updates can be obtained from Ilco Tech Support. New software update versions must be 04.06.091 or higher. Appropriate GTS key shells or GTHT80 Plus head and T80 Plus chips are sold separately.
Models which can be cloned include Ford CMax, Edge, Escape, Fiesta, Flex, Focus, Fusion and Taurus. Ford trucks include, E-series, Expedition, Explorer, F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, Transit and Transit Connect.
Hyundai vehicles include Accent, Elantra, Santa Fe, Sonata, Tucson and Veloster.
Kia models include Forte, Rio, Ronda, Sorento, Soul and Sportage.
Lincoln models include MKX, MKZand Navigator.
Mazda MX5 Miata is included.
Several Subaru models including Tribeca, BRZ, Forester, Impreza, Legacy, Outback, WRX and XV Crosstrek can be pre-coded but not cloned.
For further information contact your local locksmith distributor or: Kaba Ilco Corp., 800-334-1381 or www.ilco.us.
