The 10 Most Scariest Things About Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a great solution to avoid being locked out in the future. However, it can be quite costly depending on the vehicle you own.
Sanabria states that there are tools to help shops, or even DIY customers, to program replacement keys and restore data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your car from some distance
You will require a programmed key to start your car. This means that the key needs to have a particular microchip inside it that can be accessible to a receiver in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, it transmits a code-matching signal to the receiver. If the signal matches, the car will begin. This kind of technology is safer than the traditional methods of locking your vehicle because the code is always changing and is unable to be detected by thieves.
It used to be possible to connect a car's hot-wire and then drive away, but thanks to the introduction of programmable keys, this is now impossible. In addition the majority of these vehicles now have proximity sensors that stop the car from starting if not within reach of the key. The most recent keys can make your car warm via remote, making it easier to drive in cold weather.
Using the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own key and start your car from a distance. This kit will allow you to bypass the anti-theft feature in your vehicle and go into programming mode for a new automotive key. This kit is not compatible with all cars. You should consult your owner's guide to see what it can do for your vehicle.
The procedure for programming keys is not difficult, but it requires a lot of patience and attention to the smallest of details. You must follow a strict procedure in order to successfully program your car using the new key. The steps needed to accomplish this can be found in your car's manual or on the internet for "onboard programming step X of your vehicle." Make sure to keep the ignition and key fobs locked while you program them, as waiting 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.
You can use a key that is programmable to unlock the doors of your vehicle quickly if you're hurry and don't have time to wait for family or friends. This is a fantastic option for those who are often late for appointments or who have difficulties finding their vehicles in crowded parking areas. This is a great option for people who have elderly or children who require assistance in getting into their vehicle.
A programmable car key is different from a traditional mechanical key, which has grooves and cuts that fit into your car's ignition or door locks. It also comes with an electronic chip that is connected to the car's computer. This chip can be programmed by an auto manufacturer or locksmith, depending on your vehicle's model and make. It is generally more complicated than making an exact duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and costs more money. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on this service.
A trusted locksmith in your area can program your programmable keys for a much lower cost than the dealership or an auto parts store, and typically can do it faster as well. You'll need two working keys for the locksmith in order to link your new key to the car's computer. In addition, many modern cars have advanced anti-theft transponders, which must be programmed specifically 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 best to consult the owner's manual for the specific car model or look up online for the steps. Certain manufacturers employ proprietary technology which prevents you from being able to reprogram your key. This is why you should visit an expert locksmith or dealer who is experienced to get help. You could harm the electronic system of your car when you attempt to program your key yourself. It can be expensive to fix and therefore it is recommended to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from the distance
Car thieves target drivers as they try to open their vehicles. They know it takes you just a few seconds to remove the keys out of your pocket or purse and put them into the ignition. So they wait for you to be vulnerable. You can avoid this by using an electronic key that locks your vehicle remotely. This feature is particularly useful for those who live in a dense area or don't want their keys to be lost.
You can only utilize this feature if your vehicle is compatible with it. To make sure your car is compatible, you can check with the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. You must have an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to be able to unlock your vehicle remotely.
It is important to keep a spare if you lose your programmed key. In the event of a loss, you might need to get a new transponder chip. This can be expensive so it's best to keep a spare key in your possession. You can also have the key changed by an auto locksmith or dealer. However, reprogramming car key a car key yourself is risky. It is safer to do it professionally so that nobody else is able to reprogram your car key and steal your mobile car key programmer.
There are a lot of car owners who attempt to program their own programmable car keys by following online instructions. It can be quite easy if you know the process, but it's difficult to learn on your own and can be somewhat confusing if you aren't familiar with the procedure. This method isn't just dangerous, but it might be ineffective in certain cases. It is possible that key reprogramming could erase all of your other keys, which could cause them to stop working. This can be avoided by having two keys working prepared prior to starting. Make sure your vehicle is turned off before you attempt 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 faster. Traditionally, you needed to remove the key from your purse or pocket and then put it in the ignition, turn it, and then unlock each door manually. With a programmable car keys - my website, instead, you can simply press a button on your key fob key programming to open the door, which is quicker and more secure. It's not necessary to leave your family or friends waiting outside your car while you search for your keys.
If you have a programmed car key, it is also simpler to replace it in the case of a lost or broken one. In many instances, 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 functions as intended. This is much easier than replacing the key head and will save you money.
For certain vehicles, a special programer is required to reprogramme the key. These advanced devices are expensive and are typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. They are costly and require a great deal of expertise to operate. Some locksmiths employ a method known as "EEPROM Programming" to detect the transponder's number.
No matter what kind of key you have though, it is always a good idea to keep an extra in the case. Keys for cars lost are frequent, and they can be an absolute hassle to replace. You never know how easy it will be for a thief to get into your car and steal it.
You can avoid these issues by ordering a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can create an programmable car key for a reasonable price. This is a much cheaper and less stressful option than purchasing an entirely new car after you have lost your keys.