The 10 Scariest Things About Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Car key preprogramming is a great way to avoid being locked out of your car in the future. However, it can be a bit pricey dependent on the car you own.
Sanabria says that there are tools available to help shops, and even DIY customers, program keys for replacement and restore data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from some distance
You require a key that is programmed to start your vehicle. The key must be equipped with a microchip that is read by the receiver inside the ignition. Then, when the key is inserted, it sends out a signal to the receiver that matches the code in the chip. If the signal matches with the chip, the car will start. This kind of technology is far more secure than other methods of locking your vehicle, as the code is always changing and cannot be guessed by thieves.
With the advent of a programmable key, it is now impossible to hot-wire your car and drive away. In addition that many of these cars now have proximity sensors that block the car from starting if not in reach of the key. The most recent keys can warm up your car via remote, making it easier to drive during cold days.
Using 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 allows you to bypass the anti-theft system in your vehicle and enter the programming mode for a brand new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all vehicles. It is recommended to check the owner's manual to see whether it is compatible with your vehicle.
The procedure for programming keys is not difficult, but it requires a lot patience and attention to details. You must follow a specific procedure in order to successfully program your car using a new key. You will find the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual or on the internet for "onboard program step X vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked as you try to program them.
2. You can open the doors at the same time.
When you are in the midst of a rush and don't want to be waiting for your friends or family to arrive, you can use a programmable car key to open all doors at once. This is a great feature for those who are always late to appointments or have trouble to locate their car key programing in crowded parking lots. This is a great idea for people who have elderly or children who require assistance in getting into their vehicle.
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys which have cut and grooves that fit into the lock cylinder of your vehicle's ignition and door locks A programmable key comes with an internal computer chip that is linked to the car's computer systems. This chip can be programmed by a locksmith or auto manufacturer based on your vehicle's model and make. It is generally more complicated than making duplicates of the traditional key. It is more time-consuming and costs you more. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your keys at a lower cost than dealerships and often quicker. You will need two working keys to the locksmith to link your new key to your computer in your car. Additionally, many modern cars have advanced anti-theft transponders that need to be specifically programmed for your car by a professional locksmith or dealer.
The process for reprogramming a car key isn't a simple process but there are a few methods you can attempt at home. It is recommended to read the owner's manual for your specific car model or look up online for the steps. Certain manufacturers employ proprietary technology which prevents you from being able to change the programming of your key. This is why you should visit a locksmith or dealer that is experienced to get help. You may damage the electronic system of your car in the event that you attempt to program your key on your own. It's expensive to fix, so it's best to stay clear of this risk.
3. You can lock your car from a distance
Car thieves target drivers as they try to unlock their vehicles. They know that it takes only a few seconds to retrieve your keys from your pocket or purse and then put them in the ignition. Therefore, they are waiting for you at times when you're the most vulnerable. You can avoid this by using an electronic key that locks your car remotely. This feature is especially useful for those who live in a crowded area or are worried that their keys could be lost.
You can only use this feature if your vehicle is compatible with it. You can consult your auto locksmith key programming near me locksmith or manufacturer to see whether your car is compatible. To unlock your car remotely you need an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later and be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
It is important to keep an extra in case you lose your programable key. You may need to replace the transponder chip in case you don't. This can be costly, so it is best to keep an extra key on hand. You can also have your key reprogrammed. This can be done by a dealer or an auto locksmith. However the process of reprogramming a car's key yourself can be risky. It is safer to get it done by a professional so that nobody else is able to reprogram your key and take your car.
There are a lot of car owners who attempt to program their own car keys that are programmable by following online instructions. It can be quite easy if you know the process however, it can be difficult to master on your own and can be somewhat confusing if you are not familiar with it. This method isn't only dangerous, but it may be ineffective in certain situations. It is possible that key reprogramming can erase all your other keys, making them stop working. You can avoid this by making sure that you have two working keys in your possession prior to starting. Also, ensure that your car is not running while you attempt to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The most obvious benefit of a programmable vehicle key is that it will aid in unlocking your door faster. Traditionally to unlock a door, you'd need to remove your key from your pocket, purse, or wallet, place it in the ignition and turn it. With a programmable car key it is possible to just push the button on the fob of your key to open the door, which is quicker and safer. You don't have to leave your family or friends in the car while you search for your keys.
It is much easier to replace a key that is programmable in the event you lose or break one. In many instances, you can simply order an alternative key and have it reprogrammed by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and functions in the way you want it to. This is a much simpler process than replacing the key head and will save you money.
Certain vehicles may require a special programer to reprogramme a key. These devices are costly, and are typically only available to locksmiths. These devices are expensive and require a great deal of knowledge to use. Some locksmiths even employ a method called "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method to read the code of the transponder in your vehicle.
Regardless of what type of key you own, though, it is always an excellent idea to have an extra in the case. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They can be a challenge to replace. Also, you don't know how easy a thief can be to rob your car.
You can avoid these problems by purchasing a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can make you a programmable car key at an affordable cost. This is a less expensive and less stressful alternative than purchasing new automobiles after you have lost your keys.