Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is an excellent option to avoid being locked out in the future. It can be expensive depending on the car you drive.
Sanabria says there are tools to help shops, and even DIY customers, to program replacement keys and restore information from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from an undetermined distance
To start your car, you require an ignition key that has been programmed to work with it. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip that is accessible to a receiver in the ignition. Then, when the key is inserted, it sends out a signal to the receiver that is a match to the code inside the chip. If the signal matches with the chip, the car will begin. This type of technology is safer than the previous methods of locking your car, as the code is always changing and is not able to be deciphered by thieves.
It was once possible to hot-wire a car and drive away, but thanks to the introduction of programmable keys it's now impossible. In addition, many of these vehicles now have proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting if not in reach of the key. The most recent keys are capable of warming your car from some distance making it easier to get on the road on cold days.
Utilizing the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your new key and start your vehicle from a distance. This kit allows you to bypass the anti-theft system of your car and enter the mode of programming for a new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all cars. You should check the owner's manual to determine if it will work with your vehicle.
The process of programming your key is not difficult however it requires a lot of patience and focus on detail. To program your car successfully with a new, you must follow a specific method. You will learn the steps in your car's owner's manual, or look on the internet for "onboard program step X vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked when you try to program them.
2. You can unlock the doors at the same time.
When you are in a hurry and don't want to wait for your family or friends to arrive, you can use a programmable car key to unlock all of the doors simultaneously. This is a great feature for those who are often late for appointments or have difficulty finding their car in parking lots that are crowded. This is a great option for people who have elderly or young children who require assistance getting into their car.
A programmable car key differs from a conventional mechanical key, which is made of grooves and cuts that fit in your car's ignition or door locks. It also has an electronic chip that is connected to the car's computers. This chip can be programmed by either an auto manufacturer or locksmith, depending on your vehicle's make and model. This process is usually more complex than creating a copy of a traditional car key. It takes longer and costs more money. There are ways to cut costs on this service.
A reliable locksmith in your neighborhood can program your programmable keys at a lower cost than a dealership or auto parts store, and generally can do it quicker too. However, you will require two functioning keys to allow the locksmith to connect your new key to the computer system of your car. In addition, many contemporary cars have advanced anti-theft transponders, which must be specifically programmed for your vehicle by a certified locksmith or dealer.
There are some techniques you can employ at home to reprogram a car key. It is recommended to refer to the owner's manual of your specific model of car, or go online to find the steps. Some manufacturers use proprietary technology that prevents you from being able to change the programming of your key. This is why you should consult an expert locksmith or dealer who has the expertise to help you. You could damage the electronic system in your car in the event that you attempt to program your key on your own. It can be expensive to fix, so it's best to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance
Car thieves usually target drivers while they are trying to open their cars. They are aware that it takes a moment for you to pull your keys out of your purse or pocket and to put them in the ignition, so they're waiting for you at the exact moment when you are most vulnerable. Fortunately, you can avoid this from happening by locking your car from a distance with a programmable car key. This feature is especially beneficial for those who live in a congested area or do not want their keys to be lost.
You can only utilize this feature only if your car is compatible with it. To ensure that your car is compatible, consult the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. You must possess an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to unlock your car remotely.
It is crucial to keep an extra in case you lose your programmable key. If not, auto car key programmer may have to purchase a new transponder chip. It's costly, so it's best to have an extra key. You can also get your key reprogrammed. This can be done by a dealer or an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your own car keys can be dangerous. It is safer to do it professionally, so that others cannot reprogram your car key and steal your car.
Many car owners attempt to program their programmable keys on their own by following online instructions. It's not difficult when you are familiar with the procedure. However it can be complicated and difficult to master on your own. This method is not only dangerous, but it might be ineffective in certain cases. In fact, it's possible that the reprogramming of keys will erase your other keys and cause them to stop working. You can avoid this by making sure that you have two keys that work on hand before beginning. Also, ensure that your car is not running while you attempt to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The most obvious benefit of a car key is that it will help you unlock your door faster. In the past, you had remove the key from your purse or pocket and place it in the ignition, turn it on, and then unlock each door manually. A key that is programmable allows you to unlock your car's door by simply pressing the button on the key fob. This is quicker and safer. This also means that you don't need to leave your family members or friends in your car while you hunt for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it is also easier to replace it in the case of a lost or broken one. In many cases you can just purchase a replacement key and then have it reset by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will work with your vehicle, and function as you would expect it to. This is a far simpler process than replacing the head of the key and will typically cost you less money.
For some vehicles, a special programer is required to reprogram the new key. These devices are costly and are typically only accessible to locksmiths. These devices are expensive and require a lot of expertise to operate. Some locksmiths use a technique known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder code.
It is a good idea, regardless of the type of key, to always have a spare on to hand. Keys for cars lost are common, and can be an absolute headache to replace. Also, you don't know how easy it will be for a thief to gain entry into your vehicle and drive off with it.
Fortunately, you can avoid any of these issues by getting a spare programmable car key created in advance. Pop-A-Lock can create an programmable car key for an affordable price. This is a cheaper and less stressful option than having to purchase an entirely new car after losing your original keys.