Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is an excellent solution to avoid being locked out in the future. It could be costly depending on your car.
Sanabria says that there are tools that can assist shops, and even DIY customers, program keys for replacement and restore data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from some distance
You will require a programmed key to start your car. The key must be equipped with a microchip that can be read by the receiver inside the ignition. When the key is inserted, it sends out a signal to the receiver that is a match to the code inside the chip. If the signal matches then the car will start. This type of technology is far more secure than previous methods of locking your vehicle since the code changes constantly and is not able to be deciphered by thieves.
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. A lot of these cars have proximity sensors which prevent the car from starting if the key is not within reach. The newest keys are even capable of warming up your car from some distance which makes it easier to drive on cold winter days.
Using the EZ installer from Tom's Key Company it is now possible to program your new key and start your car from a distance. This kit will allow you to bypass the anti-theft system in your vehicle and go into programming mode for a new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all vehicles. You should consult your owner's guide to see what it can do for your vehicle.
The process of programming your key is not complicated however it requires a lot of patience and attention to detail. To program your car successfully with a new system, you need to follow a specific method. The steps to do this are in the car's manual or online by searching for "onboard programming step X vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs in a locked state when you attempt to program them, as waiting too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and exit the programming mode.
2. You can open the doors simultaneously
If you're in a hurry and don't want to wait for your family or friends, you can use a programmable car key to unlock all of the doors simultaneously. This is a useful feature for people who are always late to appointments or have trouble to locate their car in crowded parking lots. It is also a good idea for people who have children or elderly relatives who require assistance getting in the car.
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys that have grooves and cuts that fit into the lock cylinders of your car's ignition and door locks, a programmable key has an embedded computer chip that is connected to your car's computer systems. This chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer, or auto manufacturer depending on the model and brand of your car. This procedure is typically more complex than making copies of the traditional car key. It takes longer and will cost you more. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the cost of this service.
A reliable locksmith in your neighborhood can program your programmable key for a much lower cost than the dealership or auto parts store, and they can usually do it faster as well. However, you'll need to have two working keys to allow the locksmith to connect your new key to the car's computer system. Many modern cars also have advanced anti-theft transmitters that must be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
The process for reprogramming a car key isn't easy but there are a few techniques you can try at home. It is recommended to refer to the owner's manual for the specific model of car, or go online to find the steps. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technology that stops you from being able to reprogram your key. This is why it is so important to visit an experienced locksmith or dealer for assistance in this. In the event that you attempt to program your personal key could cause damage to the car's electronic components. This can be extremely costly to repair, so it's best not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your car from the distance
Car thieves often target drivers while they are trying to gain entry into their vehicles. They are aware that it takes a few seconds to take the keys out of your purse or pocket, and then place them in the ignition. Therefore, they are waiting for you to be vulnerable. You can avoid this by using a programmable key that locks your vehicle remotely. This feature is especially useful for people who live in a busy location or are afraid of losing their keys.
You can only utilize this feature only if your car is compatible with it. To ensure that your car is compatible, you can check with the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. To unlock car key programming need an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later and be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
If you lose your programmable car key, it is important to have an extra. It is possible that you will require replacing 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 an auto locksmith. However, reprogramming a car key yourself can be risky. It is safer to do it professionally, so that others cannot reprogram your car key and steal your car.
Many car owners try to program their programmable keys themselves by following the online instructions. It's not difficult to master the process if you're familiar with it, but it's difficult to learn on your own and may be a bit confusing if are not familiar with the procedure. Additionally, this method could be risky and not function properly in certain situations. It's possible that reprogramming your keys can wipe out all of your other keys, causing them to cease to function. This is avoided by having two keys that work ready prior to beginning. Also, ensure that your car isn't running when you try to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a programmable vehicle key is that it can help you unlock your door quicker. Traditionally, you had to take the key out of your pocket or purse and place it in the ignition, turn it on, and then manually unlock each door. A programmable key enables you to unlock your car's door by simply pressing a button on the key fob. This is quicker and more secure. It also means that you don't have to leave your friends or family waiting outside your car while hunt for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it's possible to replace it in the event of a damaged or lost one. In many cases you can purchase a replacement and have it reprogrammed at the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and will function as you intended. This is a simpler process than replacing the key head and can save you money.
For certain vehicles, a specially-designed programer is required to reprogram the key. These devices are costly, and they are usually only accessible to locksmiths. reprogram car key require extensive knowledge about how to use them. Some locksmiths employ a method called "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder code.
It is a good idea, regardless of the type of keys, to always have a spare key on the side. It is not uncommon to lose your keys to your car. They can be a challenge to replace. You don't even know how easy a thief will find it to steal your car.
Fortunately, you can avoid all these problems by having a spare programmable car key prepared in advance. This can be done at your local Pop-Alock locksmith for a reasonable price. This is a less expensive and less stressful option than purchasing an entirely new car after you have lost your keys.