Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Car key preprogramming is a great method to avoid being locked out of your car in the future. It could be costly depending on the car you drive.
Sanabria says there are tools available to help shops, or even DIY customers, program keys for replacement and restore data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from a distance
You need a programmed key to start your car. The key must have a microchip that is read by the receiver in the ignition. When the key is inserted it sends a signal the receiver that matches the code in the chip. If the signal matches, the car will start. This kind of technology is far safer than the previous methods of locking your car, as the code is constantly changing and cannot be guessed by thieves.
It was once possible to connect a car's hot-wire and drive away, however with the introduction of programmable keys, it's now impossible. A majority of these vehicles have proximity sensors that stop the car from starting in the event that the key isn't within reach. The latest keys can even make your car warm remotely, making it easier for you to drive in cold weather.
With the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own new key and start your vehicle from an extended distance. This kit allows you to bypass your car's anti-theft device and allow you to enter the programming mode of new key for your car. It is important to note that this kit will not work on all vehicles and you must consult your owner's manual to determine if it works with your specific model of vehicle.
The key programming procedure is not difficult, however it requires a lot patience and attention to the smallest of details. To program your car successfully with a brand new key, you must follow a specific method. The steps to do this are in the car's manual or by searching online for "onboard programming step X vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs secured while you program them, since waiting too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and exit the programming mode.
2. You can unlock all the doors at once.
If you're in a hurry and don't want to wait for your friends or family to arrive, you can use an auto key that can be programmed to open all doors at once. This is an excellent option for those who often miss appointments or have difficulty finding their car in crowded parking areas. This is a great option for those who have elderly or children who need assistance in getting into their car.
A car key that is programmable is different from a traditional mechanical key, which is made of grooves and cuts that fit into the ignition of your car or door locks. It also has a computer chip that is linked with the car's computers. This chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer, or auto manufacturer depending on the model and make of your car. It is generally more complex than making a duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and is more expensive. There are, however, ways to reduce the cost of this service.
A trusted locksmith in your area can program your programmable keys for much less than the dealership or auto parts store, and generally can do it quicker too. You will need two working keys for the locksmith in order 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 a locksmith or dealer.
There are a few techniques you can employ at home to re-program a car key. However, it is best to read the owner's manual or search on the Internet for the exact steps for your car's brand and model. Some manufacturers have proprietary technology that stops you from reprograming your key. This is why it is so important to seek out an experienced locksmith or dealer to assist with this. You could damage the electronic system of your car if you try to program your key on your own. This can be extremely costly to repair, so it's recommended not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance
Car thieves are often targeting motorists while they try to open their cars. They are aware that it takes a minute for you to grab your keys from your purse or pocket and to put them in the ignition, and they're waiting for you at the moment that you are at your most vulnerable. You can avoid this from happening by locking your car from a distance by using a programmable car key. This feature is particularly beneficial for people who live in a busy area or who don't want to risk losing their keys.
You can only use this feature only if your car is compatible with it. Check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to see whether your vehicle is compatible. To remotely unlock your car, you must have 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 one spare in case you lose your programmable key. If not, you may have to purchase a new transponder chip. It's expensive and it's advisable to have an extra key. You can also have the key changed by an auto locksmith or 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.
There are a lot of car owners who try to program their own programmable car keys by following online instructions. It's quite simple if you know the process, but it's difficult to master by yourself and could be a bit confusing if you are not familiar with the procedure. Furthermore, this method can be risky and not work properly in some instances. In reality, it's possible that the reprogramming of keys will wipe out the other keys and cause them to cease working. This is avoided by having two working keys ready before you start. Make sure that your vehicle is turned off before you try to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of having a programmed key is that it can unlock your doors quicker. Traditionally to unlock a door, you'd have to take your key from your pocket, purse or wallet, then put it in the ignition and turn it. A key that is programmable allows you to open your car's doors by pressing an icon on the key fob. This is quicker and safer. This also means that you don't have to leave your family or friends waiting outside your car while you look for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it is also easier to replace it in the case of a damaged or lost one. In many instances you can just purchase a replacement key and have it reset by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle, and will function as you intended. This is a simpler process than replacing the key head and can save you money.
For certain vehicles, a special programer is required to reprogramme the key. These advanced devices are expensive and typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. smart key programming are costly and require a great deal of experience to use. Some locksmiths will even use the method known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method to read the code that is on the transponder in your vehicle.
No matter what kind of key you have however, it's recommended to keep an extra in the case. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They can be a challenge to replace. Plus, you don't know how easy a thief can be to rob your car.
You can get rid of these issues by ordering a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can make you a programmable car key at an affordable price. This is a less expensive and less stressful alternative than purchasing a new vehicle after you have lost your keys.