How to tell if the main chip of a smart key is NCF29
By miniobdJune 26th, 2026125 views
How to tell if the main chip of a smart key is NCF29? There are four ways to identify NCF29 series chips (NCF29A1 / NCF29A2 / NCF29AG), sorted by ease of operation for locksmith work: NXP Killer can copy all car keys with NCF29 chip . 1. Check the chip marking by disassembling the key (Most accurate method) 1. Take apart the smart key case and take out the circuit board. Locate the square QFN main IC (5×5mm). 2. Read the text printed on the chip surface with a magnifying glass: If you see the NXP logo plus NCF29A1 / NCF29A2 / NCF29AG, it is confirmed as an NCF29 chip. 3. Distinction from older PCF79xx chips: PCF7938 / PCF7939 chips are larger and not compact 5mm single integrated chips. 2. Read chip data via locksmith tools (No disassembly required, fast on-site test) Applicable devices: VVDI Key Tool Plus, KD-X4, AutoKey Unlocker, NK001, etc. 1. Place the smart key on the induction coil, select the transponder identification / read function. 2. Judgment standard: The device displays chip models including NCF29A1, NCF29A2, NCF29AG, NCF2953, NCF2954 or marks Hitag AES encryption exclusive to NCF29. 3. Key feature: NCF29 chips are labeled as PEPS single-chip with 4A Hitag AES encryption. Older PCF79xx only support HT2 / HT3 without AES encryption. 3. Quick judgment based on vehicle models (Empirical screening) Vehicles commonly equipped with NCF29 chips: - All new GM vehicles (Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, Cadillac PEPS smart keys after 2017) - BMW G chassis, new Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Jeep, Dodge Ram - Partial new Honda, Acura, high-end Hyundai & Kia proximity keys Typical feature of NCF29 keys: The vehicle can still start by touching the ignition sensor even when the key battery is dead, as NCF29 has an integrated passive anti-theft coil. Older PCF79xx keys fail the touch start function once the battery runs out. 4. Distinguish by functional characteristics (Auxiliary identification) Exclusive features of NCF29 - Single chip integrating LF low-frequency induction and UHF remote transmission, with very few components on the circuit board. - Supports RSSI distance detection for automatic lock/unlock when the driver walks away or approaches the car. - Adopts Hitag AES encryption, which cannot be directly cloned by ordinary copy tools. NCF Killer or dedicated unlocking equipment is required to erase the key ID. Features of traditional PCF79xx chips Separate circuits for transponder and remote control, no AES encryption, compatible with regular key copying devices.
