r/Autolocksmith

Key Tool Plus vs Smart Pro, do I really need Smart Pro?

I’m UK-based and new to auto locksmith programming. I’ve just completed a programming course and the trainer recommended owning both Key Tool Plus and Smart Pro.

The problem is Smart Pro seems very expensive once you include the token/subscription system.

My current plan is:

• OBD programming
• Solderless EEPROM/bench work only
• No soldering jobs
• Mainly aiming for common UK vehicles and trying to cover around 70–80% of the market

What do you suggest i do ? 

I think I already know the answer to this, but I want to know if anyone has ever experienced similar.

I haven’t struggled too much with lishi picking since starting up as an auto locksmith a couple of months ago, until it came to the HU101.

I’ve had 3 jobs that needed a HU101, and only successfully picked one of them, this was concerning.

I have a friend in the industry who isn’t too far away from me, he came to help me on a job once, took one look at my lishi pick and asked me to try his.

Like some sort of miracle, I had the lock picked and decoded in 30 seconds. His pick felt solid, weighty and gave amazing feedback in the lock. Mine on the other hand - felt flimsy in the lock, feedback was terrible, I couldn’t actually feel some waters at all.

This got me worried, I have around 20-30 lishi’s already, most from Ali Express or similar. I’m starting to think I made a mistake, and should have ordered a bulk set from a reputable buyer in the UK.

Anyone have any experience with a similar situation? I’d prefer not to drop £600 on another set of Lishi’s if most of mine are fine, and it’s just the odd few that are off etc.

Thanks.

24 Ford F150

Can anyone help me to determine which of my 4 fobs are the culprit for this DTC? Ive checked the battery voltage on all key fobs and all 4 work as expected. There are 2 keys 3 button keys and 2 4 button keys. Remote start was added and all key fobs work as expected. I do have FORScan but cant seem to access the PATS menus on a 24 in FORScan.

I would like to resolve the code but it really is just in the background and doesnt affect anything at all.

Would anyone be so kind as to assist me with how to go about resolving this code?

what are better alternatives then the km100 since it is region locked 😢😢 in north america need to program a key ASAP