Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car key is a great method to avoid being locked out of your car in the future. However, it could be a bit pricey depending on the vehicle you own.
Sanabria says there are tools that can help shops, and even DIY customers, program replacement keys and retrieve data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your car from a distance
In order to start your car, you need keys that are programmed to work with it. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip inside it that can be capable of being read by a receiver inside the ignition. When the key is put into the ignition, it transmits an encoded signal to the receiver. If the signal is in line with the chip, the car will begin. This type of technology is far more secure than previous methods of locking your vehicle since the code changes constantly and is unable to be detected by thieves.
It used to be possible to wire a car and drive away, however thanks to the introduction of programmable keys, it's now impossible. Many of these cars also have proximity sensors which prevent the car from being started if the key is not within range. The latest keys can make your car warm remotely, making it easier to get on the road on cold winter days.
With the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own new key and start your car from a distance. This kit allows you to bypass your car's anti-theft system and allow you to enter the mode of programming new set of keys for your vehicle. It is important to remember that this kit will not work on all vehicles, and you should consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to find out what it can do for your particular model of vehicle.
The process of programming keys isn't difficult, but it requires patience and a keen eye for details. To program your car successfully with a brand new key, you must follow a specific procedure. You will locate the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual or online for "onboard program step X vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked when you attempt to program them.
2. You can open the doors simultaneously
When you are in a hurry and don't want to be waiting for your family or friends to arrive, you can use an auto key that can be programmed to unlock all of the doors at the same time. This is an excellent feature to have for people who often miss appointments or have difficulties finding their vehicles in crowded parking lots. It's also a good idea for those with children and elderly family members who require assistance getting into their car.
A car key that is programmable differs from a traditional mechanical key, which is made of grooves and cuts that can be inserted into your car's ignition or door locks. It also comes with a computer chip that is connected to the car's computer. The chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer or auto manufacturer depending on the model and make of your car. It is generally more complicated than making duplicates of the traditional key. It takes longer and costs more money. There are, however, ways to reduce the cost of this service.
Local locksmiths can program your keys for less than the dealership and often quicker. However, you'll require two functioning keys in order for the locksmith to link your new key to your computer system of your car. A lot of modern cars also have sophisticated anti-theft devices that need to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
There are some techniques you can employ at home to reprogram a car key. However, it is best to refer to the owner's manual, or search the Internet to find the exact steps for your vehicle's brand and model. Some manufacturers have proprietary technologies that stop you from reprograming your key. This is why it is important to visit an experienced locksmith or dealer for assistance in this. You could harm the car's electronic system when you attempt to program your key on your own. It's costly to fix and therefore it is recommended to stay clear of this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance
Car thieves target drivers when they try to unlock their vehicles. They are aware that it takes a moment for you to grab your keys out of your purse or pocket and to place them in your ignition, and they're waiting for you at the time when you are most vulnerable. You can avoid this by using a programmable key that locks your car remotely. This feature is especially useful for those who live in a congested area or don't want their keys to be lost.
This feature is only available if your car is compatible. You can check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to see whether your car is compatible. To unlock your car remotely, you must have an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later and be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
If you lose your programmable car key, it is important to have a spare. It is possible that you will need to replace the transponder chip in case you don't. This can be expensive so it's best to have an extra key on hand. You can also get the key reset by an auto locksmith or a dealer. However doing it yourself can be risky. It is safer to hire a professional to perform the task so that others aren't able to reprogram your key and possibly steal your vehicle.
There are a lot of car owners who attempt to program their own programmable car keys by following the online instructions. It's quite simple when you are familiar with the procedure, but it's difficult to master by yourself and could be somewhat confusing if you are not familiar with the procedure. Moreover, this method can be dangerous and may not work in certain instances. In reality, it's possible that the reprogramming process will wipe out your other keys, causing them to stop working. car key programming is prevented by having two keys that work ready prior to beginning. You should also make sure that your vehicle isn't running while you are trying to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of having a programmable key is that you can unlock doors more quickly. Traditionally, you needed to take the key out of your pocket or purse and then put it in the ignition, turn it, and then manually unlock each door. With a car key that is programmable, however, you can simply push a button on the fob of your key to open the door, which is much more convenient and more secure. It also means you don't have to leave your family members or friends in your car while you hunt for your keys.
It is much easier to replace a programmable key in the event you lose or break one. In many cases you can just purchase a replacement key and have it reset by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and will work in the way you want it to. This is a much simpler process than trying to replace the head of the key, and will typically save you some money.
Certain vehicles will require a specialized programmer to reprogramme a new key. These sophisticated devices are costly and are typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. They also require extensive experience in using these devices. Some locksmiths even employ methods known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method of reading the code of your vehicle's transponder.
No matter what kind of key you have, however, it's a good idea to keep an extra key in your pocket. It is not uncommon to lose your keys to your car. They can be difficult to replace. You never know how easy it would be for a criminal to gain entry into your vehicle and take it away.
You can avoid these issues by ordering a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can make you an auto key that is programmable at a reasonable price. This is a much cheaper and less stressful option than buying new automobiles after you have lost your keys.