Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Car key preprogramming is a great option to prevent getting locked out of your car in the future. It could be costly depending on the car you drive.
There are tools to assist shops and DIY customers create replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from some distance
In order to start your car, you require keys that are 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. 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, 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 deciphered.
It was once possible to wire a car and then drive away, but with the introduction of programmable keys, this is now impossible. Additionally, many of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that block the car from starting if it's not within range of the key. The latest keys can even allow you to warm your car via remote, making it easier for you to drive on cold winter days.
Using the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own new key and start your vehicle from a distance. This kit allows you to bypass the anti-theft feature in your vehicle and enter the programming mode for a new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all vehicles. It is recommended to check the owner's manual to determine whether it is compatible with your car.
The procedure for programming keys is not difficult, but it requires patience and attention to the smallest of details. To program your car successfully with a brand new key program, you must follow a specific method. You can find the steps in your car's owner's manual, or search on the internet for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked as you are trying to program them.
2. You can open all of the doors at the same time
When you are in the midst of a rush and do not want to wait for your family or friends to arrive, you can use a programmable car key to open all doors at the same time. This is a great feature for those who are always late for appointments or find it difficult to find their car in the crowded parking spaces. This is a great idea for people who have elderly or children who require assistance in getting into their vehicle.
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys which have cut and grooves that fit into the lock cylinder of your car's ignition and door locks A programmable key comes with an embedded computer chip which is connected to the car's computer systems. This chip can be programmed by either an auto manufacturer or locksmith based 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 more money. There are, however, ways to save money on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your keys for less than the dealership and often faster. However, you will need to have two working keys in order for 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 your car key isn't a simple process, and there are some tricks you can try at home. It is recommended to read the owner's manual for your specific car model or go online to find the steps. Some manufacturers have proprietary technologies that stop you from reprogramming your key. This is why it is so important to seek out an experienced locksmith or dealer for assistance in this. You could harm the car's electronic system if you try to program your key yourself. It can be expensive to repair, so it's best to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle 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 out of your purse or pocket and then place them in the ignition. So they wait for you at times when you're the most vulnerable. You can stop this from happening by having a programmable key that locks your vehicle remotely. This feature is especially useful for those who live in a crowded area or do not want their keys to be lost.
This feature is only available if your vehicle is compatible. You can check with your auto locksmith or manufacturer to see if your vehicle is compatible. You must have 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. You might have to replace the transponder chip if don't. It's costly and it's advisable to have an extra key. You can also get your key reprogrammed, which can be done by a dealer or an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your car key could be risky. It is best to do it professionally so that nobody else is able to reprogram your key and take your car.
There are many motorists who try to program their own programmable car keys by following online instructions. It can be quite easy if you know the process however, it can be difficult to learn on your own and can be a bit confusing if are not familiar with the procedure. Additionally, this method could be risky and 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 functioning. This can be avoided by having two keys working ready prior to beginning. Make sure your car is turned off when you attempt to program your third keys.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The most obvious benefit of a car key is that it can assist you in unlocking your door faster. Traditionally to unlock a door you'd have to take your key from your pocket, purse or wallet, then put it in the ignition and turn it. A key that is programmable allows you to unlock your car's door by simply pressing a button on the key fob. This is faster and more secure. It's not necessary to leave your family or friends waiting outside the car while you hunt for your keys.
It is much easier to replace a programmable lock in the event you break or lose one. In most cases, you can request a replacement and have it reprogrammed at the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle, and work as intended. This is a simpler process than replacing the head of the key and will typically cost you less money.
For certain vehicles, a specially-designed programer is required to reprogram the new key. These devices are costly and are typically only available to locksmiths. These devices are expensive and require a great deal of expertise to operate. Some locksmiths use a technique called "EEPROM Programming" to detect the transponder's number.
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 they can be quite a headache to replace. Plus, you never know how easy it would be for a thief to gain entry into your vehicle and drive off with it.
You can avoid these issues by purchasing a spare programmed key in advance. You can do this at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for a low cost. This is much less expensive and less stressful than having to buy a new car if you lose your original keys.