Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a great solution to avoid being locked out in the future. However, it could be quite costly depending on the vehicle you own.
Sanabria states that there are tools to assist shops, and even DIY customers, to program replacement keys and retrieve information from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from an extended distance
You need a programmed key to turn on your vehicle. This means that the key needs to have a specific microchip inside it that can be capable of being read by a receiver inside the ignition. When the key is put in, it sends a signal the receiver that is a match to the code inside the chip. If the signal matches then the car will begin. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car since the code is always changing and cannot be guessed.
It used to be possible to connect a car's hot-wire and drive away, but since the introduction of programmable keys, this is now impossible. Additionally the majority of these vehicles now have proximity sensors that block the car from starting if it's not within the range of the key. The latest keys can even allow you to warm your car by remote, making it much easier to get on the road on cold winter days.
With the EZ installer from Tom's Key Company it is now possible for you to program your new key and start your car from a distance. This kit will allow you to bypass the anti-theft system of your vehicle and enter the programming mode for a new key for your car. It is important to remember that this kit doesn't work on all cars and you must consult the owner's manual to determine if it works with the model you have chosen for your vehicle.
The key programming procedure is not difficult, however it requires patience and a keen eye for details. You must follow a specific procedure to successfully program your car with a new key. You will learn the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual or online for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked when you try to program them.
2. You can also unlock the doors at the same time.
When you are in a hurry and do not want to wait for your family or friends to arrive, you can use a programmable car key to unlock all of the doors at once. This is a fantastic feature to have for people who are frequently late for appointments or have trouble finding their cars in parking lots that are crowded. It's also a great idea for people who have children or elderly relatives who require assistance getting into their car.
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys with grooves and cut-outs that fit into the lock cylinders of your car's ignition and door locks A key that is programmable has a computer chip inside which is connected to the car's computer systems. The chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer, or auto manufacturer based on the make and model of your vehicle. In general, this procedure is more complicated than creating a duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and costs you more. There are ways to cut costs on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your programmable keys for less than the dealership and are often faster. You'll need two functioning keys for the locksmith in order to link your new key with the car's computer. A lot of modern cars also have sophisticated anti-theft devices that need to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
There are some tricks you can use at home to reprogram a car key. However, it is best to consult your owner's manual or search on the Internet to find the exact steps for your vehicle's model and brand. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technology that prevents you from being able to reprogram your key. This is why it is so important to visit an experienced locksmith or dealer to assist with this. You could harm the electronic system in your car when you attempt to program your key on your own. This can be extremely costly to repair, so it's recommended not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your car from the distance
Car thieves target drivers when they attempt to unlock their vehicles. They know that it takes only a few seconds to retrieve your keys from your purse or pocket, and then place them in the ignition. They'll be waiting for you when you're most vulnerable. You can avoid this by locking your car at a distance using a programmable car key. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who live in an urban area or if they are afraid of losing their keys.
This feature is only available if your car is compatible. Check with your auto locksmith or manufacturer to confirm whether your vehicle is compatible. To remotely unlock your car you will require 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 lose your programmable car key, it is important to have a spare. In the event of a loss, you might need to get a new transponder chip. It's expensive so it's recommended to have an extra key. You can also have your key reprogrammed, which can be done by a dealer or an auto locksmith. However, reprogramming a car key yourself can be risky. It is recommended to get it done by a professional to ensure that no one else can reprogram your key and take your car.
There are many motorists who try to program their own programmable car keys by following the online instructions. It's quite simple when you are familiar with the procedure however, it can be difficult to master on your own and can be a bit confusing if aren't familiar with it. This method is not only risky, but it could be ineffective in certain situations. It is possible that key reprogramming can wipe out all of your other keys, causing them to stop working. This is prevented by having two working keys 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 your doors quicker. Traditionally when you want to unlock a door you'd need to remove your key from your purse, pocket or wallet, put it in the ignition and turn it. A key that is programmable allows you to open your car door by pressing an icon on the key fob. This is faster and safer. It's not necessary to leave your family or friends in the car while you search for your keys.
If you have a programmed car key, it is also easier to replace it in the case of a lost or broken one. In many instances you can simply purchase an alternative key and have it reprogrammed by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and function as you would expect it to. This is a much simpler procedure than trying to replace the key head itself and will typically cost you less money.
Certain vehicles will require a specialist programmer to reprogramme a new key. These sophisticated devices are costly and typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. They also require a great deal of experience in using them. Some locksmiths use a technique called "EEPROM Programming" to detect the transponder's number.
Regardless of what reprogram car key of key you own, though, it is always a good idea to keep a spare handy. Lost car keys are common, and can be quite a headache to replace. Also, you don't realize how easy it could be for a thief to gain entry into your vehicle and take it away.
You can avoid these problems by purchasing a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can make you an auto key that is programmable at a reasonable price. This will be far cheaper and less stressful than having to buy a new car after you lose your original keys.