20 Things You Must Be Educated About Programmable Car Keys
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 a bit pricey dependent on the car you own.
Sanabria says that there are tools to help shops, or even DIY customers, to program keys for replacement and restore data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your car from some 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 specific microchip that is readable by a receiver in the ignition. Then, when the key is inserted, 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 begin. This kind of technology is much more secure than previous methods of locking your car because the code changes constantly and is not able to be deciphered by thieves.
It was once possible to wire a car and drive away, however with the introduction of programmable keys this has become 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 a distance, making it easier to drive during cold weather.
Using 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 lets you bypass your car's anti-theft system and enter the mode of programming new set of keys for your vehicle. It is important to remember that this kit doesn't work on all vehicles and you must consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine if it works with your specific model of vehicle.
The procedure for programming keys is not difficult, but it requires a lot of patience and attention to the smallest of details. It is imperative to follow a strict procedure in order to successfully program your car with a new key. You will find the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual, or look online for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked when you try to program them.
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, you can use a car key that is programmed to unlock all of the doors simultaneously. This is a useful feature for people who are always late for appointments or have trouble to locate their car in crowded parking spaces. It's also a good idea for those with children or elderly family members who need assistance in getting into their car.
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, that have grooves and cuts that fit into the lock cylinder of your car's door locks and ignition, a programmable key has an embedded computer chip which is connected to the car's computer systems. This chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer, or auto manufacturer, based on the model and brand of your car. In general, this procedure is more complex than making duplicates of the traditional key. It is more time-consuming and costs you more. There are ways to cut costs on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your programmable keys at a lower cost than dealerships and often faster. But, you'll need to have two working keys in order for the locksmith to connect your new key to your computer system of your car. Modern cars are also equipped with sophisticated anti-theft devices that need to be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
The process of reprogramming your car key isn't easy, and there are some tricks you can try at home. It is recommended to refer to the owner's manual of your particular model of car key programmer or go online to find the steps. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technology that prevents you from reprogramming your key. This is why it is important to consult a knowledgeable locksmith or dealer to assist with this. Attempting to program your own key could damage the car's electronic components. This can be very expensive to repair, so it's wise not to take the risk.
3. You can lock your car from a distance
Car thieves target drivers when they try to open their vehicles. They are aware that it takes a minute for you to pull your keys from your pocket or purse and to place them in the ignition, so they're waiting for you at the exact moment when you're most vulnerable. You can avoid this by using the use of a key that can be programmed to lock your vehicle remotely. This feature is particularly useful for people who live in a crowded location or do not want to risk losing their keys.
This feature is only available if your car is compatible. To confirm that your vehicle 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 allow you to unlock your car remotely.
If you lose your programmable car key, it is important to have an extra. Otherwise, you may need to purchase a new transponder chip. It's expensive, so it's best to have an extra mobile key programming near me. You can also have your key reprogrammed. This can be done by an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your car key could be risky. It is best to hire a professional to do it so that others cannot reprogram car keys your keys and possibly steal your vehicle.
There are many car owners who attempt to program their own car keys that are programmable by following online instructions. It's quite simple if you know the process, but it's difficult to learn by yourself and could be somewhat confusing if you are not familiar with the procedure. This method isn't just risky, but it could not work in certain instances. In reality, it's possible that the reprogramming process will wipe out the other keys and cause them to cease working. You can avoid this by ensuring you have two working keys at hand prior to beginning. You should also ensure that your car 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 programmed key is that you can unlock your doors faster. Traditionally, you had remove the key from your purse or pocket, put it in the ignition, turn it on, and then manually unlock each door. With a car key that is programmable instead, 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 need to leave your friends or family waiting outside your car while you hunt for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it is also easier to replace it in the event of a lost or broken one. In many instances you can just purchase an alternative key and have it changed by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle, and work as intended. This is a much simpler process than replacing the head of the key and will save you money.
Certain vehicles may require a specialized programer to reprogramme a key. These devices are expensive, and are typically only available to locksmiths. These devices are expensive and require a great deal of experience to use. Some locksmiths employ a method called "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder code.
No matter what kind of key you have, however, it's recommended to keep an extra key in your pocket. Keys for cars lost are common, and can be quite a headache to replace. Also, you don't realize how much to programme a car key (relevant web page) easy it could be for a thief to get into your car and steal it.
Fortunately, you can avoid all these problems by having a spare car key that is programmable made in advance. Pop-A-Lock can create an auto key that is programmable at a reasonable price. This is a much cheaper and less stressful option than having to purchase a new vehicle after you have lost your keys.