Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a great option to avoid being locked out in the future. It can be expensive depending on the car you drive.
Sanabria says that there are tools to help shops, and even DIY customers, program replacement keys and retrieve data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from an extended distance
To start your vehicle, you'll need an ignition key that has been programmed to work with it. This means that the key has to have a specific microchip in it that is readable by a receiver in the ignition. Then, when the key is put in, it emits a signal to the receiver that is in line with the code on the chip. If the signal matches then the car will start. This technology 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 connect your car to the hot-wire and drive off. Additionally, many of these vehicles now have proximity sensors that block the car from starting if not within the reach of the key. The most recent keys are capable of warming up your car from an infinity distance which makes it easier to get on the road 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 vehicle from a distance. This kit allows you to bypass your car's anti-theft system and enter the programming mode of new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all cars. You should check the owner's manual to see if it will work with your vehicle.
The process of programming your key is not complicated however, it requires patience and concentration on the details. To successfully program your car with a brand new key system, you need to follow a specific process. The steps for doing this can be found in your car's manual or by searching online for "onboard programming step X for vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs in a locked state while you are trying to program them, as waiting too long between steps could cause the car to reset its commands and leave the programming mode.
2. You can also unlock the doors simultaneously
If you're in the midst of a rush 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 simultaneously. programming car key is an excellent option for those who are always late to appointments or find it difficult to find their car in the crowded parking lots. This is a great option for those who have elderly or children who need assistance getting into their car.
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, which have cut and grooves that fit into the lock cylinders of your car's door locks and ignition, a programmable key has an internal computer chip which is connected to the car's computer systems. The chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer or auto manufacturer, based on the model and brand of your vehicle. In general, this procedure is more complex than making an exact duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and costs you more. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on this service.
Local locksmiths can program programmable keys at a lower cost than dealerships and can often do it faster. However, you'll need to have two working keys in order for the locksmith to connect your new key to your computer system of your car. In addition, many contemporary automobiles have sophisticated anti-theft transponders that must be programmed specifically for your car by a trained locksmith or dealer.
There are some methods you can apply at home to reprogram the car key. However, it's best to consult your owner's manual or search the Internet for the exact steps for your vehicle's model and brand. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technology that stops you from reprogramming your own key, which is why it is important to consult a knowledgeable locksmith or dealer for assistance with this. You could harm the electronic system in your car in the event that you attempt to program your key on your own. This could be costly to repair, so it is recommended not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your car from the distance
Car thieves target drivers when they try to open their vehicles. They are aware that it takes a minute for you to grab your keys from your purse or pocket to place them in your ignition, and they're waiting for you at the moment when you are most vulnerable. You can prevent this with the use of a key that can be programmed to lock your vehicle remotely. This feature is especially useful for those who live in an urban area or if they are afraid of losing their keys.
This feature is only available if your car is compatible. Check with your auto locksmith or manufacturer to see whether your car is compatible. You must possess an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to be able to unlock your vehicle remotely.
If you lose your car key programmable it is essential to have a spare. You may have to replace the transponder chip if you don't. It's expensive and it's advisable to have an extra key. You can also have the key changed by an auto locksmith or a dealer. Reprogramming your car key could be risky. It is best to get a professional perform the task so that others can't reprogram your key, and possibly steal your vehicle.
Many car owners attempt to program their programmable keys themselves by following online instructions. It's easy to do if you already know the procedure. However it can be confusing and difficult to learn by yourself. Moreover, this method can be risky and might not work properly in some situations. It is possible that key reprogramming could erase all of your other keys, making them stop working. This is prevented by having two working keys prepared prior to starting. You should also make sure that your car isn't running while you are trying to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of having a programmable key is that you can unlock your doors faster. 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. With a car key that is programmable instead, you can just push the button on your key fob to open the door, which is quicker and more secure. You don't have to leave your family or friends waiting outside the car while you look for your keys.
If you have a programmed car key, it is possible to replace it in the event of a broken or lost one. In most cases you can simply purchase a replacement key and then have it reset by locksmiths. This will ensure that your new key will work with your vehicle, and function as you would expect it to. This is a far simpler process than trying to replace the head of the key, and can save you some money.
For some vehicles, a specialized programer is required to reprogramme the new key. These devices are costly, and they are usually only available to locksmiths. They also require extensive experience in using these devices. Some locksmiths even employ the method known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated way 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 hand. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They aren't easy to replace. Also, you don't realize how easy it could be for a criminal to gain entry into your vehicle and steal it.
Fortunately, you can get rid of all these problems by having an extra car key that can be programmed made in advance. You can do this at your local Pop-Alock locksmith for a low cost. This is a cheaper and less stressful option than buying an entirely new car after you have lost your keys.