That may not work because it sounds like his current keys are not being recognized by the new computer. So there is no "active" key to start the process with.I also had good luck with a locksmith shop. They hooked a computer to my car, used the key I had and then inserted the two new keys into the ignition. That programmed the new keys to the car.
Good luck
Forscan is free if you sign up for their forum. Load it on a windows laptop, buy the ODB adapter off Amazon that they recommend. Get in the PATS menu, delete existing keys, program new one and the backup. Plenty of YouTube on that.I put a new computer in the car, supposedly relearned the existing keys, did not start, put old computer back in, car started right up, how would you program the keys to a new computer ? 2009 v6, 4.0 5 man.