Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Car key preprogramming is a great method to ensure that you are not locked out of your car in the future. However, it can be quite costly depending on the car you own.
Luckily, there are tools to help shops and even DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from a distance
You require a key that is programmed to turn on your vehicle. This means that the key needs to have a specific microchip that is capable of being read by a receiver inside the ignition. When the key is inserted it sends a signal the receiver that matches the code in the chip. If the signal matches with the chip, the car will begin. This type of technology is much more secure than previous methods of locking your vehicle because the code is always changing and is not able to be deciphered by thieves.
With the advent of a programmable key, it's impossible to hot-wire your car and drive away. Additionally, many of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting if not within proximity to the key. The latest keys can warm up your car remotely, making it easier for you to drive in cold weather.
Utilizing 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 car and enter the programming mode for a new automotive key. It is important to note that this kit doesn't work with all vehicles, and you should consult the owner's manual to find out whether it is compatible with your particular model of vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not complicated however, it requires a lot of patience and focus on detail. You must follow a strict procedure to successfully program your car with the new key. The steps for doing this are in the car's manual or by searching online for "onboard programming step X vehicle." Make sure to keep the ignition and key fobs locked while you 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 open all of the doors at once.
When you are in an urgent situation and don't want to wait for your family or friends, you can use an auto key that can be programmed to unlock all of the doors simultaneously. This is a great feature for those who are frequently late for appointments or are having trouble finding their cars in crowded parking areas. It's also a good idea for those with children or elderly relatives who need help getting in the car.
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys that have grooves and cuts that fit into the lock cylinder of your car's ignition and door locks, a programmable key has an internal computer chip which is connected to the car's computer systems. This chip can be programmed by either an auto manufacturer or locksmith depending on the car's model and make. Typically, automotive key programming near me is more complex than making duplicates of the traditional key. It takes longer and costs you more. There are, however, ways to reduce the cost of this service.
A trusted locksmith in your area can program your programmable keys at a lower cost than a dealership or an auto parts store, and they typically can do it faster as well. However, you will require two functioning keys in order for the locksmith to link your new key to your computer system of your car. In addition, many modern cars have advanced anti-theft transponders that must be programmed specifically for your vehicle by a professional locksmith or dealer.
There are some tricks you can use at home to reprogram your car key. It is best to consult the owner's manual for your particular model of car or go online to find the steps. Some manufacturers have proprietary technology that stops you from reprogramming your own key, which is why it is so important to consult a knowledgeable dealer or locksmith for help with this. In the event that you attempt to program your personal key could cause damage to the car's electronic components. It can be expensive to fix, so it's best 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 are aware that it takes a moment for you to grab your keys from your pocket or purse and to place them in the ignition, and they're waiting for you at the time when you are most vulnerable. You can avoid this by locking your vehicle at a distance using the ability to program your car keys. This feature is particularly useful for people who live in an urban area or who do not want to risk losing their keys.
You can only utilize this feature only if your car is compatible with it. To make sure your car is compatible, consult the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. To remotely unlock your car you need an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later, and you must be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
It is important to keep a spare if you lose your programmed key. You might have to replace the transponder chip if don't. This can be costly, so it is best to have an extra key in your possession. You can also have the key reprogrammed by an auto locksmith or dealer. However, reprogramming a car key yourself is risky. It is safer to get a professional do the job so that other people can't reprogram your key, and then steal your car.
There are many car owners who try to program their own keys that can be programmed by following the online instructions. It can be quite easy when you are familiar with the procedure however, it can be difficult to learn on your own and may be a bit confusing if you aren't experienced with it. Additionally, this method could be risky and not work in certain situations. In fact, it's possible that the reprogramming of keys will wipe out the other keys and cause them to cease functioning. You can avoid this by ensuring you have two keys that work on hand before starting. You should also make sure that your car is not running while you are trying to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The most obvious benefit of a programmable car key is that it can assist you in unlocking your door quicker. Traditionally, to unlock a door you'd have to take your key from your pocket, purse or wallet, put it in the ignition, and turn it. With a programmable car key, however, you can just push a button on your key fob to open the door, which is much more convenient and safer. You don't have to leave your family or friends waiting in the car while you hunt for your keys.
If you own a programmable car key, it's possible to replace it in the event of a lost or broken one. In most cases, you can simply order a replacement key and have it reprogrammed by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and works in the way you want it to. This is a far simpler procedure than attempting to replace the head of the key, and can save you some money.
For certain vehicles, a specialized programmer is required to reprogramme the new key. These advanced devices are expensive and are usually only accessible to professional locksmiths. My Page require a great deal of experience in using them. Some locksmiths use a technique called "EEPROM Programming" to detect the transponder's number.
It is a good idea, regardless of the type of key, to always have a spare key on to hand. Lost car keys are very common, and they can be an absolute hassle to replace. Plus, you never realize how easy it could be for a criminal to gain entry into your vehicle and take it away.
You can avoid these issues by purchasing a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-Alock can create you a programmable car key at an affordable price. This is a cheaper and less stressful option than buying a new vehicle after you have lost your keys.