Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Car key preprogramming is a great method to avoid being locked out of your car in the future. It can be expensive depending on your car.
Luckily, there are tools to help shops and even DIY customers program replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from a distance
In order to start your car, you need an ignition key that has been programmed to work with it. The key must have an embedded microchip that can be read by the receiver in the ignition. When the key is put into the ignition, it sends an encoded signal to the receiver. If the signal matches, then the car will start. This method is more secure than other methods of locking your car because the code is constantly changing and cannot be deciphered.
With the advent of programmable key, it is now impossible to hot-wire your car and drive off. A lot of these cars come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting if the key is not within range. The latest keys are capable of warming your car from an infinity distance, making it easier to travel during cold weather.
Utilizing the EZ installer from Tom's Key Company it is now possible for you to program your new key and start your car from afar. This kit will allow you to bypass the anti-theft system in your vehicle and go into programming mode for a brand new automotive key. It is important to note that this kit will not work on all vehicles and you must consult the owner's manual to find out what it can do for your specific model of vehicle.
The key programming process isn't difficult however, it requires a lot of patience and concentration on the details. It is imperative to follow a strict procedure to successfully program your car using the new key. The steps needed to accomplish this can be found in the car's manual or by searching online for "onboard programming step X vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs in a locked state while you 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 all of the doors at once.
If you're in a hurry and do not want to wait for your friends or family to arrive, you can use an auto key that can be programmed to unlock all of the doors at the same time. This is a great feature for those who often miss appointments or are having trouble finding their cars in crowded parking lots. This is a great idea for those who have elderly or children who require assistance in getting into their car.
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, which have cut and grooves that fit into the lock cylinders of your car's ignition and door locks A key that is programmable has a computer chip inside that is connected to your car's computer systems. The chip can be programmed by an auto manufacturer or locksmith based on your vehicle's model and make. This procedure is typically more complicated than making a copy of a traditional car key. It takes longer and costs more money. There are ways to save on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your programmable keys for less than the dealership and are often faster. You will need two working keys for the locksmith in order to connect your new key with the computer in your car. A lot of modern cars also have sophisticated anti-theft devices that need to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
The process of reprogramming a car key isn't exactly straightforward but there are a few tricks you can try at home. It is recommended to refer to the owner's manual of your specific model of car, or look up online for the steps. Certain manufacturers use proprietary technology that prevents you from being in a position to change the programming of your key. This is why you should visit a locksmith or dealer who is experienced to get help. You may damage the electronic system in your car if you try to program your own key. It's expensive to repair so it's recommended to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance
Car thieves target drivers when they try to unlock their vehicles. They know that it takes only a few seconds to retrieve the 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 avoid this by locking your car from a distance with the ability to program your car keys. 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. To ensure that your car is compatible, check with the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. To remotely unlock your car, you must have 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 a spare. Otherwise, you may need to purchase a replacement transponder chip. This can be costly and it is recommended to keep an extra key on hand. You can also get your key reprogrammed, which can be done by an auto locksmith. However, reprogramming a car key yourself is risky. It is recommended to get a professional do it so that others aren't able to reprogram your key and then steal your car.
Many car owners try to program their programmable keys themselves by following online instructions. It's not difficult once you know the procedure. However car key programming can be difficult and confusing to learn on your own. This method isn't only dangerous, but it may be ineffective in certain instances. In reality, it's possible that the reprogramming of keys will erase your other keys and cause them to stop working. This is avoided by having two keys that work ready prior to beginning. You should also make sure that your vehicle isn't running while you are trying to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a programmable car key is that it can help you unlock your door quicker. Traditionally, to unlock a door you'd need to remove your key from your purse, pocket or wallet, then put it in the ignition, and turn it. A programmable key enables you to unlock your car's door by pressing the button on the key fob. This is faster and more secure. This also means that you don't need to leave 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 event of a lost or broken one. In most cases, you can request an alternative key and have it reprogrammed at a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and will work as intended. This is a much simpler process than replacing the key head and will save you money.
For certain vehicles, a special programer is required to reprogramme the new key. These devices are costly, and are typically only available to locksmiths. They are costly and require a lot of knowledge to use. Some locksmiths use a technique known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder code.
It is a good idea regardless of the type of key to always have a spare key on hand. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They can be difficult to replace. You don't even know how easy a thief will find it to steal your car.
Fortunately, you can get rid of all of these issues by having a spare car key that is programmable prepared in advance. You can do this at your local Pop-Alock locksmith for a low cost. This is much less expensive and less stressful than buying a new car after you lose your keys.