Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car key is a great method to prevent getting locked out of your car in the future. However, it could be expensive depending on the vehicle you own.
There are tools that can assist shops and DIY customers program replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from some distance
To start your vehicle, you'll need a key that is programmed to work with it. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip inside it that can be accessible to a receiver in the ignition. Then, when the key is put in, it emits a signal to the receiver that is in line with the code on the chip. If the signal matches then the car will begin. This method is more secure than other methods of locking your car as the code changes constantly and cannot be deciphered.
It used to be possible to connect a car's hot-wire and drive away, however since the introduction of programmable keys this is now impossible. A lot of these cars have proximity sensors which prevent the car from being started in the event that the key isn't within reach. The newest keys are even capable of warming up your car from some distance making it easier to travel on cold days.
Using the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your new key and start your vehicle from an extended distance. This kit will allow you to bypass the anti-theft system in your vehicle and enter the mode of programming for a new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all automobiles. It is recommended to check the owner's manual to see what it can do for your car.
The procedure for programming keys is not difficult, but it requires a lot of patience and attention to details. It is imperative to follow a strict procedure in order to successfully program your car with the new key. The steps for doing this are in your car's manual or by searching online for "onboard programming step X for vehicle." Make sure to keep the ignition and key fobs secured when you attempt to program them, since waiting too long between steps could cause the car to reset its commands and then leave the programming mode.
2. You can unlock all of the doors simultaneously.
When you are in an urgent situation and don't want to wait for your family or friends to arrive, you can use a car key that is programmed to open all doors at once. This is an excellent feature to have for people who are frequently late for appointments or are having trouble finding their cars in crowded parking areas. This is a great idea for those with elderly or children who require assistance in getting into their vehicle.
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, which have cut and grooves that fit into the lock cylinder of your car's door locks and ignition, a programmable key has a computer chip inside which is connected to the car's computer systems. This chip can be programmed by either a locksmith or auto manufacturer, depending on your vehicle's model and make. This procedure is typically more complex than creating copies of the traditional car key. It takes longer and costs you more. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your programmable keys for less than the dealership and can often do it quicker. You'll need two working keys for the locksmith to link your new key to the computer in your car. A lot of modern cars also have advanced anti-theft systems that must be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
There are a few methods you can apply at home to re-program your car key. However, it is recommended to consult your owner's manual, or search the Internet to find the exact steps for your specific car's model and brand. Some manufacturers have proprietary technology that prevents you from reprograming your own key, which is why it is important to seek out an experienced locksmith or dealer to assist in this. You may damage the electronic system of your car when you attempt to program your key on your own. This can be extremely costly to repair, so it is best not to take this risk.
3. reprogram car key can lock your vehicle from an extended distance
Car thieves are often targeting motorists while they try to gain entry into their vehicles. They know that it takes only a few seconds to retrieve your keys out of your purse or pocket and then place them in the ignition. Therefore, they are waiting for you at times when you're the most vulnerable. Fortunately, you can avoid this by locking your car from a distance with an auto key that can be programmed. This feature is especially useful for people who live in an urban area or if they are afraid of losing their keys.
You can only use this feature only if your vehicle is compatible with it. Check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to determine if your vehicle is compatible. You must possess an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to unlock your vehicle remotely.
It is important to keep a spare if you lose your programmable key. It is possible that you will need to replace the transponder chip if you don't. It's expensive and it's advisable to have an additional key. You can also have the key reset by an auto locksmith or dealer. However the process of reprogramming a car's key yourself can be dangerous. It is best to hire a professional to do it so that others can't reprogram your key, and steal your vehicle.
Many car owners attempt to program their own programmable keys by following the online instructions. It's quite simple to master the process if you're familiar with it however it is difficult to master on your own and can be a bit confusing if are not familiar with it. This method isn't just dangerous, but it might be ineffective in certain situations. It's possible that key reprogramming can wipe out all of your other keys, which could cause them to cease to function. You can avoid this by ensuring you have two working keys on hand before beginning. Also, ensure that your vehicle isn't running when you try to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a programmed key is that it can unlock your doors quicker. Traditionally to unlock a door you would have to remove your key from your pocket, purse or wallet, put it in the ignition, and turn it. With a programmable car keys, however, you can simply press a button on your key fob to open the door, which is faster and more secure. This also means that you don't have to leave your family members or friends outside your car while 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 most cases, you can order an alternate key and then have it reprogrammed by an 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 far easier process than replacing the key head itself and can save you money.
For some vehicles, a specially-designed programmer is required to reprogramme the key. These advanced devices are expensive and typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. They also require a lot of experience in using these devices. Some locksmiths even employ the method known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method of reading the code of your vehicle's transponder.
Whatever type of key you own, though, it is always a good idea to keep an extra in the case. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They can be difficult to replace. You don't even know how easy it is for a criminal is to rob your car.
Fortunately, you can avoid all these problems by having an extra car key that can be programmed prepared in advance. You can get this done at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for an affordable price. This is a much cheaper and less stressful alternative than buying new automobiles after losing your original keys.