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 can be costly based on the car you drive.
Sanabria says 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 vehicle from an undetermined distance
In order to start your car, you require a key that is programmed to work with it. The key must have a microchip that is read by the receiver inside the ignition. When the key is put into the ignition, it sends a code-matching signal to the receiver. If the signal is in line, the car will begin. This type of technology is much more secure than previous methods of locking your car since the code changes constantly and cannot be guessed by thieves.
With the advent of a programmable key, it is now impossible to hot-wire your car and drive away. A lot of these cars come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting in the event that the key isn't within range. The newest keys are even capable of warming up your car from some distance making it easier to get on the road on cold winter days.
Utilizing the EZ installer from Tom's Key Company it is now possible to program your new key and start your car from afar. This kit allows you to bypass your car's anti-theft system and enter the programming mode of new set of keys for your vehicle. This kit is not compatible with all vehicles. You should check the owner's manual to determine what it can do for your car.
The process of programming keys isn't difficult, but it requires a lot of patience and a keen eye for details. It is imperative to follow a strict procedure in order to successfully program your car with a new key. You will learn the steps in your car's owner's manual, or look online for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked when you are trying to program them.
2. You can also unlock the doors simultaneously
When you are in an urgent situation and do not want to wait for your friends or family to arrive, you can use a programmable car key to open all doors at once. This is a great feature for people who are always late to appointments or find it difficult to find their car in busy parking areas. This is a great option for those who have elderly or young children who require assistance in getting into their vehicle.
A programmable car key is different from a traditional mechanical key that has grooves and cuts that fit in your car's ignition or door locks. It also comes with a computer chip connected to the car's computer. This chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer, or auto manufacturer depending on the make and model of your car. It is generally more complex than making an exact duplicate of a traditional key. It is more time-consuming and costs you more. There are automotive key programming to save on this service.
A reputable local locksmith can program your programmable key for much less than the dealership or an auto parts store, and typically can do it faster as well. However, you will require two working keys to allow the locksmith to link your new key to the car's computer system. In addition, many contemporary cars have advanced anti-theft transponders that need to be specifically programmed for your car by a professional locksmith or dealer.
The process of reprogramming your car key isn't easy but there are a few techniques you can try at home. However, it's best to consult your owner's manual or search on the Internet to find the exact steps for your vehicle's brand and model. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technologies that stop you from reprogramming your own key, which is why it's important to visit an experienced locksmith or dealer to assist with this. In the event that you attempt to program your personal key could cause damage to the car's electronics. This can be very expensive to repair, so it is best not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your car from a distance
Car thieves are often targeting drivers as they attempt to unlock their cars. They know that it takes only a few seconds for you to grab your keys out of your pocket or purse and to place them in the ignition, and they're waiting for you at the moment when you are most vulnerable. Fortunately, you can avoid this from happening by locking your car from a distance with an auto key that can be programmed. This feature is especially useful for those who live in a dense area or don't want their keys to be lost.
This feature is only available if the car is compatible. To confirm that your vehicle is compatible, 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.
If you lose your programmable car key it is essential to have an extra. Otherwise, you may need to get a new transponder chip. This can be costly, so it is best to keep an extra key in your possession. You can also get the key reset by an auto locksmith or dealer. Reprogramming your car key can be dangerous. It is best to get a professional do it so that others cannot reprogram your keys and possibly steal your vehicle.
Many car owners attempt to program their programmable keys on their own by following the online instructions. It's not difficult when you are familiar with the process. However it can be difficult and confusing to learn by yourself. Furthermore, this method can be risky and might not function properly in certain cases. It's possible that key reprogramming can wipe out all of your other keys, which could cause them to stop working. This is avoided by having two keys that work ready prior to beginning. You should also ensure that your car is not running while you attempt to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of a programmed key is that you can unlock doors more quickly. In the past, you had remove the key from your pocket or purse, put it in the ignition, turn it on, and then unlock each door manually. With a programmable car keys, however, you can simply push a button on the fob of your key to open the door, which is more convenient and more secure. It also means you don't have to keep your family or friends waiting outside your car while search for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it is possible to replace it in the event of a lost or broken one. In many cases you can purchase an alternate key and have it reprogrammed at the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and work as intended. This is a simpler process than replacing the key head and will save you money.
For some vehicles, a special programer is required to reprogramme the new key. These sophisticated devices are costly and are typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. They also require a lot of knowledge about how to use them. Some locksmiths may even employ methods known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method to read the code that is on your vehicle's transponder.
No matter what kind of key you own, though, it is always recommended to keep an extra in the case. It is not uncommon to lose your keys to your car. They aren't easy to replace. You never know how easy it would be for a burglar to get into your car and steal it.
You can avoid these problems by purchasing a spare programmed key in advance. Pop-Alock can create you an programmable car key for an affordable price. This is a cheaper and less stressful alternative than having to purchase new automobiles after losing your original keys.