Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car key is a great way to ensure that you are not locked out of your car in the future. It could be costly depending on your car.
Sanabria says that there are tools available to assist shops, and even DIY customers, to program replacement keys and retrieve data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your car from an extended distance
You require a key that is programmed to start your car. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip in it that is accessible to a receiver in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an encoded signal to the receiver. If the signal is in line, the car will begin. This kind of technology is much more secure than traditional methods of locking your vehicle since the code changes constantly and is unable to be detected by thieves.
It used to be possible to hot-wire a car and then drive away, but with the introduction of programmable keys, this has become impossible. In addition, many of these vehicles are now equipped with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting if not within range of the key. The most recent keys can warm up your car by remote, making it much easier to travel in cold weather.
With the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your new key and start your vehicle from an extended distance. This kit lets you bypass the anti-theft system of your car and allow you to enter the mode of programming new automotive keys. This kit is not compatible with all automobiles. You should consult the owner's manual to see if it will work with your car.
The process of programming keys is not difficult, however it requires a lot patience and a keen eye for details. To program your car successfully with a new, you must follow a specific method. The steps needed to accomplish this are in your car's manual or on the internet for "onboard programming step X vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs secured while you are trying to program them, as the inability to wait too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and exit the programming mode.
2. You can unlock all of the doors at the same time
You can use a key that is programmable to unlock the doors of your vehicle at once if you're in hurry and don't have time to wait for friends or family members to arrive. This is a fantastic feature to have for people who often miss appointments or who have trouble finding their cars in crowded parking areas. It is also a good idea for people who have children and elderly family members who need help getting into their car.
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys which have cut and grooves that fit into the lock cylinder of your vehicle's ignition and door locks, a programmable key has an internal computer chip that is connected to your 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. This process is usually more complex than creating copies of the traditional car key. It takes longer and is more expensive. There are ways to save 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 generally can do it quicker as well. However, you will require two functioning keys to allow the locksmith to connect your new key to the car's computer system. Many 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 easy but there are a few techniques you can try at home. It is best to consult the owner's manual of your particular model of car or search online for the steps. Some manufacturers have proprietary technologies that stop you from being able to reprogram your own key, which is why it is important to consult a knowledgeable dealer or locksmith for help with this. In the event that you attempt to program your personal key could damage the car's electronics. 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 usually target motorists while they try to open their cars. They know that it takes only a few seconds to take your keys out of your purse or pocket to place them in your ignition, and they're waiting for you at the exact moment that you are at your most vulnerable. You can avoid this by locking your car from a distance by using an auto key that can be programmed. This feature is especially beneficial for those who live in a dense area or don't want their keys to be lost.
This feature only if your vehicle is compatible with it. To make sure car key programming is compatible, you can inquire with the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. You must have an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to allow you to unlock your car remotely.
It is essential to have an extra in case you lose your programable key. It is possible that you will require replacing the transponder chip in case you don't. It can be costly and it's advisable to have an extra key. You can also have the key changed by an auto locksmith or dealer. Reprogramming your own car keys could be risky. It is safer to do it professionally so that nobody else is able to reprogram your key and steal your car.
There are a lot of motorists who try to program their own car keys that are programmable by following the online instructions. It's quite simple if you know the process however, it can be difficult to master by yourself and could be somewhat confusing if you are not familiar with it. This method isn't only dangerous, but it might not work in certain cases. It is possible that key reprogramming can wipe out all of your other keys, which could cause them to cease to function. This can be avoided by having two working keys ready prior to beginning. Make sure that your car is off when you attempt to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of having a programmed key is that it can unlock your doors faster. Traditionally when you want to unlock a door, you would have to remove your key from your pocket, purse or wallet, put it in the ignition and turn it. With a car key that is programmable instead, you can simply push the button on the key fob to unlock the door, which is much quicker and more secure. It also means that you don't have to keep your family members or friends in your car while you look for your keys.
If you own a programmable car key, it is also easier to replace it in the case of a broken or lost one. In many instances, you can order a replacement and then have it reprogrammed by an locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and will function as you intended. This is a much simpler process than replacing the key head and will save you money.
Certain vehicles may require a specialized programmer to reprogramme the key. These advanced devices are expensive and typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. These devices are expensive and require a lot of experience to use. Some locksmiths will even use a method called "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method to read the code that is on your vehicle's transponder.
It is a good idea regardless of the type of key to always have a spare key on the side. It is not uncommon to lose your keys to your car. They aren't easy to replace. Plus, you never know how easy it would be for a criminal to get into your car and take it away.
You can avoid these problems by purchasing a spare programmed key in advance. Pop-Alock can create you a programmable car key at an affordable cost. This is a cheaper and less stressful option than buying an entirely new car after losing your original keys.