Locksmithing 101 | Key Code Software

I want to give you a quick overview of how Genericode works, specifically the G Code Online, which is the online version of Genericode that requires a one-time yearly fee to access. We often receive questions about the capabilities of Genericode or code software in general. Essentially, these tools allow you to input a key code and get the key bidding. They also tell you which key blanks to use and include a key blank reference that will show you the options available.

One of the most important features is the ability to progress keys. For example, let's say you decode a door lock and it shows spaces one through six, but you're trying to make an ignition key that has spaces two through eight. You can input the bidding decoded from the door lock, and it will tell you which keys to cut to progress and obtain the last two cuts needed for the ignition key. I’ll demonstrate that shortly.

A common question we get asked is whether this software, or any software, can provide a key code from a VIN number. The answer is no—this software does not have that capability. In fact, this function doesn’t exist outside of a subscription through something like NASTF, and even then, it’s not as simple as just inputting a VIN number and getting a key code.

Let’s get started, and I’ll show you how Genericode works.

We’re on the home screen of gcodeonline.com. First, click "Login." Once you purchase this service, you’ll receive an email almost immediately with your password to log in. After logging in, you’ll be on the home screen, where you can search the database by code number, make, model year, original manufacturer, padlock, sidewinders, utility lock, or vehicle by make, model, and year.

Next, you'll see a key blank cross-reference. For instance, you can look up your blank type. Let's select Ilco and type in TR47, then hit search. If nothing shows up, ensure that the blank value is correctly entered. For instance, TR47 is an Ilco Easy number, and its Ilco number is X217. When we correct it to Ilco Easy and search again, it will display details like the Ilco number, Ilco Easy number, Jet, JMA number (which is TOYO15), Silca number, and Taylor. For reference, all the X numbers that Ilco uses originated from Taylor. This tool is particularly helpful if you're trying to cross-reference a key blank from one manufacturer to another, as long as the blank type is set up correctly.

Now, let’s go over to the "Search Database." Searching by code number is the main screen you’ll use frequently. For example, let's type in M250, which is a Honda code. When you set the lock type to "Vehicle" and search, it narrows down results to 34, rather than showing 53 results if you had selected "All Locks."

Sometimes, it helps to adjust the view to display more results per page. For example, selecting "View 50" lets you quickly scroll through to find what you need. You’ll see details like the code series and a comment area with keywords like “Honda CRV.” Keep in mind, this doesn’t necessarily exclude other Honda models like the Accord. You'll also find the key blank number and source, like “Automotive.” When you click “View Details,” you’ll see the series information, code, comments, spacing, increments, and cuts. The head of the key is displayed on one side, and the tip on the other.

The key blank cross-reference is also embedded within this screen, showing the JMA number for the Honda key, for example, along with machine details. For instance, selecting "Ilco" will reveal the Ilco card number, jaw, and stop information.

Let’s go back for a moment, and I'll give you an example of an edge-style key. Suppose we input 1258X, which could be a Ford vehicle code. The code series for all Ford vehicles is consistent, so ensure you select the correct option to avoid something like a valet key. You can view details, cuts, spacing, and depth, and even use the embedded cross-reference chart for key blank numbers.

If you're using a machine like HPC, it will provide you with the HPC card number, cutter number, and other essential details. Suppose you lose an HPC code card; you can simply click “View Card” to print and cut out a replacement. This feature is especially useful for random utility locks that never had an HPC code card made. Just ensure you're printing to the actual size to avoid issues.

Returning to the main screen, you can explore other options like Ilco or Sidewinder information, including spacing block, alignment, cam, space key, and cutter specifications.

Finally, let’s try searching by vehicle make, model, and year. For instance, let's choose Chevrolet Suburban 2018. It will show details such as the transponder type and the blank number. The tumbler information reveals that ignition wafers are in positions one through nine, while door wafers are in positions six through ten. This is important if, for example, you’ve decoded the door lock but still need to figure out the ignition cuts.

This is where it gets interesting—when you enter the decoded cuts from the door and leave unknown positions as dashes, the software sifts through the code series to present potential keys. For example, you may need to cut only two keys to find the right progression that works in the ignition. The progression table displays the key options, allowing you to cut only the necessary keys without waste.

That’s a quick overview of G Code Online. Tell me, is there a feature I didn’t cover that’s your favorite? Or what is your favorite feature about Genericode?