Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is an excellent solution to avoid being locked out in the future. However, it can be expensive depending on the vehicle you own.
Luckily, there are tools that can help shops and DIY customers create replacement keys and restore immobilizer data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from some distance
You require a key that is programmed to start your car. This means that the key needs 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 in, it sends out a signal to the receiver that is in line with the code on the chip. If the signal matches, then the car will start. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car because the code is constantly changing and cannot be deciphered.
It used to be possible to connect a car's hot-wire and drive away, but thanks to the introduction of programmable keys this is now impossible. In programming car key of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that block the car from starting if not in range of the key. The latest keys are capable of warming your car from a distance which makes it easier to get on the road on cold winter days.
Utilizing the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own new key and start your car from an extended 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. This kit is not compatible with all vehicles. You should check the owner's manual to determine what it can do for your car.
The process of programming keys isn't difficult, but it requires a lot patience and a keen eye for details. It is imperative to follow a strict procedure in order to successfully program your car using the new key. The steps to do this can be found in your car's manual or online by searching for "onboard programming step X of your vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs in a locked state while you are trying to program them, since waiting too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and exit the programming mode.
2. You can open all of the doors at once.
When you are in a hurry and do not want to wait for your family or friends to arrive, you can use an auto key that can be programmed to unlock all of the doors at once. This is a great option for those who are always late for appointments or find it difficult to find their car in busy parking lots. This is a great idea for those who have elderly or young children who require assistance in getting into their car.
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys with grooves and cut-outs that fit into the lock cylinder of your car's door locks and ignition A key that is programmable has an embedded computer chip which is connected to the car's computer systems. The chip can be programmed by an auto manufacturer or locksmith depending on the car's model and make. It is generally more complicated than making duplicates of the traditional key. It takes longer and is more expensive. There are ways to cut costs on this service.
A trusted locksmith in your area can program your programmable key for a much lower cost than the dealership or an auto parts store, and can usually do it faster too. But, you'll need to have two working keys to allow the locksmith to link your new key to the car's computer system. A lot of modern cars also have advanced anti-theft systems that must be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
The process of reprogramming a car key isn't exactly straightforward, and there are some methods you can attempt at home. However, it is recommended to read the owner's manual, or search the Internet to find the exact steps for your car's brand and model. Some manufacturers have proprietary technology that stops you from reprograming your key. This is why it's important to seek out an experienced locksmith or dealer for assistance with this. If you attempt to program your own key can cause damage to the car's electronic components. It's costly to fix, so it's best to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from the distance
Car thieves target drivers as they attempt to unlock their vehicles. They are aware that it takes a moment to take your keys from your purse or pocket and to put them in the ignition, and they're waiting for you at the time when you are most vulnerable. Luckily, you can prevent this from happening by locking your car from a distance by using an auto key that can be programmed. This feature is especially useful for those who live in a congested area or do not want their keys to be lost.
This feature is only available if the car is compatible. To ensure that your car is compatible, you can consult the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. To remotely unlock your car you need an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later and you must be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
If you have lost your car key that is programmable it is essential to have a spare. You might have to replace the transponder chip in case you don't. This can be costly and it is recommended to keep an extra key in the house. You can also get the key reprogrammed by an auto locksmith or a dealer. Reprogramming your own car keys could be risky. It is recommended to get a professional perform the task so that others can't reprogram your key, and steal your vehicle.
There are a lot of car owners who attempt to program their own keys that can be programmed by following online instructions. It's simple once you know the procedure. However it can be confusing and difficult to learn on your own. Additionally, this method could be risky and might not function properly in certain cases. It's possible that key reprogramming can wipe out all of your other keys, which could cause them to stop working. You can prevent this from happening by making sure that you have two keys that work in your possession prior to starting. Make sure that your car is off when you try to program your third keys.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The most obvious benefit of a programmable car key is that it will help you unlock your door quicker. Traditionally, to unlock a door you'd have to take your key from your pocket, purse or wallet, put it in the ignition and turn it. A key that is programmable allows you to open your car door by simply pressing the button on the key fob. This is quicker and safer. It also means that you don't need to leave your family members or friends outside your car while look for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it's also simpler 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 reprogrammed by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and function as you would expect it to. This is a easier process than attempting to replace the key head itself and it will usually save you money.
Some vehicles will require a specialized programmer to reprogramme a new key. These advanced devices are expensive and typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. These devices are expensive and require a great deal of knowledge to use. Some locksmiths will even use the method known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method to read the code of your vehicle's transponder.
It is a good idea regardless of the type of key, to always have a spare on to hand. Lost car keys are common, and can be a real headache to replace. You never know how easy it would be for a burglar to get into your car and steal it.
You can avoid these issues by purchasing a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can create an programmable car key for an affordable cost. It's much cheaper and less stress-inducing than buying a new car after you lose your original keys.