Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a great option to prevent being locked out in the future. However, it can be a bit pricey depending on the car you own.
Sanabria says that there are tools that can assist shops, and even DIY customers, to program replacement keys and restore data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from a distance
In order to start your vehicle, you'll need an ignition key that has been programmed to work with it. This means that the key needs to have a particular microchip that is readable by a receiver in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an encoded signal to the receiver. If the signal matches with the chip, 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.
It was once possible to hot-wire a car and then drive away, but with the introduction of programmable keys this has become impossible. Additionally, many of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting if it is not within reach of the key. The newest keys are even capable of warming up your car from some distance which makes it easier to drive on cold days.
With the EZ installer from Tom's Key Company it is now possible for you to program your new key and start your car from a distance. This kit lets you bypass the anti-theft system of your car and allow you to enter the programming mode of new set of keys for your vehicle. This kit is not compatible with all vehicles. You should consult the owner's manual to determine whether it is compatible with your car.
The process of programming your key is not complicated however it requires a lot of patience and concentration on the details. You must follow a specific procedure to successfully program your car with a new key. You can locate the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual or on the internet for "onboard program step X for your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked when you attempt to program them.
2. You can open all of the doors at once.
If you're in a hurry and do not want to wait for your family or friends to arrive, you can use an auto key that can be programmed to open all doors at the same time. This is a great feature for those who are frequently late for appointments or who have trouble finding their cars in crowded parking lots. It's also a good idea for people who have children or elderly family members who require assistance getting into their car.
A programmable car key differs from a conventional mechanical key, which has grooves and cuts that fit into the ignition of your car or door locks. It also comes with a computer chip that is linked with the car's computers. The chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer or auto manufacturer based on the make and model of your vehicle. This process is usually more complicated than making a copy of a traditional car key. It takes longer and will cost you more. There are ways to save money on this service.
A reliable locksmith in your neighborhood can program your programmable keys for a much lower cost than the dealership or auto parts store, and can usually do it faster too. You'll need two functioning keys to the locksmith to connect your new key with the car's computer. A lot of modern cars also have advanced anti-theft transmitters that must be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
There are a few tricks you can use at home to reprogram your car key. It is recommended to read the owner's manual for the particular model of car or go online to find the steps. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technology that prevents you from reprograming your key. This is why it is important to consult a knowledgeable locksmith or dealer for assistance in this. Attempting to program your own key could cause damage to the car's electronics. It's expensive to fix and therefore it is recommended to stay clear of this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from the distance
Car thieves are often targeting drivers as they attempt to open their cars. They know that it takes a minute for you to grab your keys from your pocket or purse and to place them in your ignition, so they're waiting for you at the exact moment when you're most vulnerable. You can stop this from happening by having a programmable key that locks your vehicle remotely. This feature is especially useful for those who live in an urban location or do not want to risk losing their keys.
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 vehicle remotely.
It is important to keep one spare in case you lose your programable key. You may need to replace the transponder chip in case you don't. It's expensive so it's recommended to have an extra key. You can also get your key reprogrammed, which can be done by an auto locksmith. However, reprogramming a car key yourself can be dangerous. It is best to get a professional do it so that others can't reprogram your key, and then steal your car.
There are a lot of car owners who try to program their own programmable car keys by following online instructions. It's quite simple to master the process if you're familiar with it however it is difficult to master on your own and may be a bit confusing if you are not familiar with the procedure. This method isn't just risky, but it could also not work in some cases. In reality, it's possible that the key reprogramming will erase your other keys, causing them to cease working. You can prevent this from happening by ensuring you have two functioning keys in your possession prior to starting. Make sure your car is off when you attempt 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 aid in unlocking your door quicker. Traditionally, key immobilizer programming near me had to take the key out of your purse or pocket, put it in the ignition, turn it, and then manually unlock each door. With a car key that is programmable, however, you can simply push the button on your key fob to open the door, which is much faster and more secure. It also means that you don't have to keep your friends or family waiting outside your car while look for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it's also easier to replace it in the event of a damaged or lost one. In many cases you can order a replacement and then have it reprogrammed by the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and will work in the way you want it to. This is a simpler process than replacing the key head and can save you money.
For certain vehicles, a specially-designed programmer is required to reprogramme the new key. These advanced devices are expensive and are typically only available to professional locksmiths. They also require a great deal of knowledge about how to use these devices. Some locksmiths even employ a method called "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated way to read the code of the transponder in your vehicle.
It is a good idea, regardless of the type of key, to always have a spare on hand. Lost car keys are frequent, and they can be an absolute hassle to replace. Also, you don't realize how easy it could be for a burglar to get into your car and drive off with it.
Fortunately, you can get rid of any of these issues by getting a spare car key that is programmable prepared in advance. You can do this at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for an affordable price. It's much cheaper and less stressful than having to buy an entirely new car when you lose your original keys.