Professional Job Planning

Complete Guide to JLR Key Programming Jobs

Step-by-step planning strategies for spare keys, all keys lost, and alarm-active scenarios across KVM and RFA vehicle systems

6

Job Scenarios Covered

2

Vehicle System Types

100%

Success Rate

Now Identify Customer's Key Type

Before programming, identify if they have Type 1 or Type 2 keys

Identify Key Type by Looking at Customer's Keys

Before connecting any tools, determine the key type by examining the customer's existing keys. This tells you which system the vehicle has.

Step 1: Visual Identification

Identify Key Type by Looking at Customer's Keys

Before connecting any tools, determine the key type by examining the customer's existing keys. This tells you which system the vehicle has.

1

Type 1 Keys

PCF7953 / KVM System

2010-2020 Vehicles

Type 1 Key - KVM system key with PCF7953 chip showing typical key fob design for 2010-2020 JLR vehicles

Key Identifiers:

Chip Type:

PCF7953 (Hitag Pro)

System:

KVM (Keyless Vehicle Module)

Frequency:

125 kHz (LF - Low Frequency)

Physical Design:

Larger blade/key visible, traditional key fob shape

Common Models:

Discovery 4, Range Rover L405, Range Rover Sport L494, Evoque L538

Quick Tip: If the key looks "older" with a visible metal blade and traditional fob design, it's Type 1

2

Type 2 Keys

NCF29A1 / RFA System

2017-2025+ Vehicles

Type 2 Keys - RFA PEPS keys with 433MHz/315MHz frequency showing NCF29A1 chip for newer JLR vehicles

Key Identifiers:

Chip Type:

NCF29A1 / 29A1 (NFC)

System:

RFA (Remote Function Actuator) / PEPS

Frequency:

433 MHz / 315 MHz (UHF - Ultra High Frequency)

Physical Design:

Sleeker, modern design, smaller emergency blade, slim profile

Common Models:

New Defender L663, Discovery 5 L462, Range Rover L460, Range Rover Sport L461

Quick Tip: If the key looks "modern" with a slim profile and hidden emergency blade, it's Type 2

Critical: Type 2 Lock Status Check

If you've identified Type 2 keys (RFA system), you need to determine if the RFA module is locked or unlocked before proceeding.

How to check lock status: Attempt OBD connection first. If Lock50 software reports "RFA Locked" or programming fails, the module is locked and requires SW36 method.

Pro Tips for Key Type Identification

Year Range Overlap

2017-2020 vehicles can have either Type 1 or Type 2 depending on the specific model and build date. Always verify by looking at the physical key.

Multiple Key Types

Some customers may have both old and new keys. Always examine ALL keys to determine the actual system type - the newest key is most reliable.

Chip Reading

If you have a chip reader, place the key on it. PCF7953 = Type 1, NCF29A1 = Type 2. This is the most accurate method.

VIN Lookup

When in doubt, use the VIN to look up the exact model year and platform (EVA1/EVA2) which determines Type 1 or Type 2 system.

Identified your key type? Click the buttons above to jump to the relevant guide, or continue to the decision tree below

Continue to Decision Tree
READ BEFORE YOU START

Important Tips & Best Practices

Follow these critical guidelines to ensure successful key programming every time

1

Always Try Method 1 First!

If customer has non-working keys, start with Method 1 (relearn existing keys via OBD) - it's the fastest and easiest approach!

2

Key Capacity

KVM vehicles typically support up to 8 keys maximum. Plan your key inventory accordingly for fleet vehicles.

3

OBD Programming Requirements

OBD programming works when KVM is unlocked AND alarm is off. If alarm is active, the OBD gateway blocks access.

Bypass Options When Gateway is Blocked:

  • Use CAN wire connection to bypass gateway → access CAN2 network directly
  • Use ARM OFF option (2010-2020 vehicles)
  • Use direct adapter connection to KVM module
4

Locked System Bypass

When system is LOCKED, OBD gateway is blocked.

Solution:

Use CAN wires or adapters to bypass gateway and access CAN2 network, allowing you to copy existing keys from locked KVM or run ARM OFF option.

5

Power Management

Keep battery charger connected during all programming operations to prevent voltage drops that can cause module corruption or failed programming.

6

Working Key Preparation

If client has a working key, ensure it's unlocked before programming so you can relearn it back in.

Important Note:

Only for Locked KVM systems is it needed to unlock the existing keys before learning in FK72 or HPLA systems.

Bookmark these tips! They'll save you hours of troubleshooting.
Job Categories

Three Types of Key Programming Jobs

Understanding which scenario you're dealing with is the first step to successful key programming

Spare Key Job

Customer has at least one working key and wants additional keys

Vehicle accessible with working key
Type 1 (KVM): OBD programming with HW05/HW06
Type 2 (RFA): OBD if RFA unlocked

⏱️ Time: 5-10 minutes

All Keys Lost

No working keys, but alarm is NOT active

Vehicle accessible (no alarm)
Type 1 (KVM): Copy via OBD to HW05/HW06
Type 2 (RFA): Requires RFA adapter

⏱️ Time: 15-25 minutes

Keys Lost + Alarm

No working keys AND alarm is active

Alarm prevents normal access
BCM may block OBD
Requires ARM OFF first

⏱️ Time: 20-30 minutes

Quick Decision Guide

Which Method Should You Use?

Follow this decision tree to determine the right approach for your specific job

START: Does customer have working keys?
YES

Customer Has Working Keys

✓ This is a SPARE KEY job

Easiest scenario - proceed with standard key programming

NO

All Keys Lost

⚠️ Check alarm status next

Alarm status determines your approach

Is the vehicle alarm active/triggering?
NO

Alarm NOT Active

✓ Standard All Keys Lost

More options available without alarm interference

YES

Alarm IS Active

⚠️ ARM OFF Required First!

Must disable alarm before programming

Quick Reference: Time & Difficulty

Scenario Time Difficulty Special Tools
Spare Key (KVM/RFA) 5-10 min Easy OBD Cable
All Keys Lost - No Alarm 15-25 min Medium HW03-C or SW40
All Keys Lost + Alarm 20-30 min Hard HW03-B/C + ARM OFF
Scenario 1: Easiest Job

Spare Key Programming

Customer has at least one working key and wants additional keys. Vehicle is accessible with working key. No alarm issues. Fastest and easiest scenario.

Programming Methods by Key Type

Type 1 Keys (PCF7953)

Can program all keys via OBD when unlocked

Type 2 PSFOB (2017-2020)

Non-UWB keys can program via OBD when unlocked

Type 2 UWB (2017-2026+)

UWB-enabled keys must copy using HW03-C adapter connected to RFA for full function keys

1

Type 1 Keys (PCF7953 / KVM System)

2010-2020 vehicles (Discovery 4, Range Rover L405, Range Rover Sport L494, etc.)

What Does a KVM Module Look Like?

KVM Keyless Vehicle Module showing connector ports

Connection Ports

KVM modules can have 2 or 3 connector plugs - all versions are supported by Lock50

All Supported

Whether your KVM has 2 or 3 plugs, the programming process is the same

Module Location

Location varies by model. View KVM locations by model →

Critical Question: Are you REPLACING all keys or just ADDING spare keys?

  • REPLACE: Client lost keys, bought used car, or wants to deactivate old keys from memory
  • ADD: Client has working keys and just wants additional spare keys

YES - Need to ERASE/REPLACE Keys

⚠️ Different Process Required - Must erase old keys from KVM/RFA/BCM and program new ones

Requirements depend on system status:

  • EVA2 RFA (not armed): Can unlock RFA
  • Other models (if locked): Need new RFA or KVM module
  • If unlocked: Use "Replace RFA" function to erase & add keys
  • If BCM also locked: Need HW04-B or higher (2020+ models)
  • BJ32 DPLA KVM: Always unlocked - can use Replace RFA function to erase keys if needed and back with keys with old ones disabled
  • FK72 or HPLA: Can use Replace RFA function to erase keys if needed and back with keys with old ones disabled only after unlocking the RFA with other tools or making it virgin or using a new one purchased from the Dealer

NO - Just Adding Spare Keys

Standard Process - Client has working keys, just needs extras

Important Note:

If client has a working key, the process is the same - follow the standard spare key workflow below.

Follow standard spare key workflow:

  • • Step 1: Check for non-working keys (quick clone)
  • • Step 2: Check KVM lock status via OBD
  • • Step 3 or 4: Add or copy keys based on lock status

Module-Specific Notes:

  • BJ32 DPLA KVM: Always unlocked - always use "Add Keys" method (best practice)
  • FK72 or HPLA: When locked, use SW36 Key Duplicator onto HW05/HW06 keys

RFA System Vehicles

2017-2025+ PEPS/UWB (New Defender, Discovery 5, Range Rover L460, etc.)

What Does an RFA Module Look Like?

RFA PEPS module showing three connector ports

Connection Ports

RFA modules can have 1, 2, or 3 connector plugs - all versions are supported by Lock50

All Supported

Different plug configurations work the same way - just different connector amounts

Module Location

Location varies by model. View RFA locations by model →

Required Hardware

Lock50 HW04
HW03-D/E Cable
New Key(s)
HW03-C (if locked)

Important: Check RFA Lock Status

For RFA vehicles, you need to determine if the RFA module is locked or unlocked. This determines which method to use.

Scenario 2: Medium Difficulty

All Keys Lost (No Alarm Active)

Customer has no working keys, but vehicle alarm is NOT triggering

Important: When Alarm is NOT Active

The process is IDENTICAL to spare key programming!

When the vehicle alarm is NOT triggering, programming keys for an "all keys lost" scenario follows the EXACT SAME steps as adding a spare key. The only difference is you don't have an existing working key to open the vehicle.

KVM Systems (Type 1)

2010-2020 vehicles - Follow the spare key guide

Go to Type 1 Spare Key Guide

RFA Systems (Type 2)

2017-2025+ vehicles - Follow the spare key guide

Go to Type 2 Spare Key Guide

How to Access Vehicle Without Keys

Physical Access Methods:

  • • Use emergency key blade (if available)
  • • Locksmith services
  • • Door lock picking tools
  • • Window access (last resort)

Programming Access:

  • • OBD port accessible from under dash
  • • Or remove KVM/RFA module for direct programming
  • • Battery must remain connected

What's Different from Spare Key Job?

✓ Same Programming Process

All the technical steps (checking lock status, copying keys, adding keys) are identical. Follow the spare key guides below:

⚠️ Only Difference: Vehicle Access

You'll need to physically access the vehicle first (locksmith, emergency key, etc.) since customer has no working keys

What If Alarm IS Active/Triggering?

That's a different scenario - see below

If the vehicle alarm is actively triggering (horn honking, lights flashing), you need to disable the alarm FIRST using ARM OFF function before programming keys.

Scenario 3: Most Complex

All Keys Lost WITH Active Alarm

Customer has no working keys AND vehicle alarm is continuously triggering - multiple solutions available

CRITICAL: ARM OFF Methods Work for All Hardware Levels

ARM OFF via CAN Wires (ALL Hardware A/B/C/C+): Works for ALL hardware levels using HW03-B or HW03-C adapters. Supported on 2010-2020 vehicles where BCM and RFA security was not yet updated by JLR. This method disables the alarm before programming keys.

HW04-C/C+ Users - Additional Options: Can ALSO copy keys directly from locked RFA/KVM (via HW03-C adapter + SW36) even with alarm active, and this method works through 2026+! Using the copied keys will automatically turn off the alarm. C/C+ users have BOTH ARM OFF and key copy methods available.

Quick Reference

Job Planning Cheat Sheet

Quick reference guide for choosing the right approach

Scenario KVM (2010-2020) RFA (2017-2025+) Time*

Spare Key

Customer has working keys

OBD Standard

HW03-D Cable

OBD or HW03-C

PSFOB: OBD if unlocked

UWB: HW03-C adapter only

5-10 min

15-25 min UWB

All Keys Lost

No alarm active

OBD Method

Works for locked or unlocked KVM

HW03-D/E via OBD port

HW03-C F1+M1

PSFOB: SW36/SW40

UWB: HW03-C adapter only

15-25 min

Keys Lost + Alarm

Alarm continuously active

Direct KVM Access

HW03-C M2 adapter

Or HW03-B with CAN wires

SW36 + HW03-C

Works with alarm

UWB: HW03-C adapter only

20-30 min

*Time includes: Programming time + vehicle entry/access + hardware setup. Actual time may vary based on vehicle accessibility and technician experience.

Essential Hardware

  • Lock50 HW04-A+ for spare keys
  • Lock50 HW04-C/C+ for SW36 (locked RFA)
  • HW03-D/E Cables for OBD connection
  • HW03-B Adapter for ARM OFF (CAN wires)
  • HW03-C M2/F1+M1 for direct module access

Key Learning Points

  • Always check if alarm is active before planning approach
  • SW36 works in ALL scenarios (spare, lost, alarm)
  • SW40 is for EVA2 RFA unlocking on specific UWB-enabled vehicles with non-updated BCM/RFA systems - use it as an alternative to SW36 direct copying for models where no other solution exists
  • Post-2020 PSFOB systems: If BCM/RFA security was updated by JLR, must replace RFA, use service mode, or use SW40 for EVA2 types unlocking to add/erase keys (direct copying via SW36 may not be available)
  • ARM OFF is permanent until car is locked again using new remotes programmed
  • Always test ALL key functions before customer leaves
Additional Resources

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Before You Start

Understanding JLR Key Types First

Before planning your key programming job, you need to understand the different JLR key types available and how they work

Ready to Learn More About Keys?

View our comprehensive guides to understand key specifications, programming methods, and compatibility