5 Myths About Programmable Car Keys That You Should Stay Clear Of
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is an excellent option to prevent being locked out in the future. However, it can be a bit pricey depending on the vehicle you own.
Sanabria says there are tools available to help shops, or even DIY customers, to program replacement keys and retrieve data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from a distance
In order to start your car, you require keys that are programmed to work with it. 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 the code, then the car will start. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car since the code is always changing and cannot be deciphered.
It used to be possible to connect a car's hot-wire and drive away, but since the advent of programmable keys, this has become impossible. In addition that many of these cars are now equipped with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting if it is not within the range of the key. The newest keys are even capable of warming up your car from some distance, making it easier to travel on cold days.
Using the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own key and start your vehicle from the distance. This kit allows you to bypass the anti-theft system of your car and enter the 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 car.
The key programming procedure is not difficult, but it requires patience and attention to details. It is imperative to follow a strict procedure to successfully program your car with the new key. The steps for doing this can be found in the car key reprogrammed's manual or online by searching 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 leave the programming mode.
2. You can unlock the doors at the same time.
You can use a programmable key to unlock the doors of your car quickly if you're a rush and don't have time to wait for friends or family members to arrive. This is an excellent feature to have for people who often miss appointments or are having difficulty finding their car in crowded parking areas. It's also a great idea for people who have children or elderly relatives who require assistance getting into the car key programing near me.
A car key that can be programmed differs from a conventional mechanical key, which has grooves and cuts that fit in your car's ignition or door locks. It also has a computer chip connected to the car's computer. This chip can be programmed by either a locksmith or auto manufacturer based on your vehicle's make and model. This procedure is typically more complicated than making a copy of a traditional car key. It takes longer and is more expensive. There are, however, ways to save money on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your programmable keys for less than the dealership and often faster. You will need two working keys for the locksmith to link your new key with the computer in your car. Many modern cars also have sophisticated anti-theft devices that need to be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
The process of reprogramming a car key isn't easy, and there are some methods you can attempt at home. However, it is best to refer to the owner's manual or search on the Internet for the specific steps for your car's brand and model. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technologies that stop you from reprograming your key. This is why it's important to consult a knowledgeable dealer or locksmith for help with this. Attempting to program your own key can cause damage to the car's electronic systems. It's expensive to repair and therefore it is recommended to stay clear of this risk.
3. You can lock your car from an extended distance
Car thieves target drivers as they try to open their vehicles. They know that it takes only a few seconds to retrieve your keys out of your purse or pocket, and then place 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 vehicle remotely. This feature is particularly useful for those who live in a congested area or do not want their keys to be lost.
This feature is only available if your car is compatible. You can check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to determine if your vehicle is compatible. You must possess an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to unlock your car remotely.
It is essential to have an extra in case you lose your programable 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 have an extra key in the house. You can also have the key changed by an auto locksmith or a dealer. However, reprogramming a car key yourself can be risky. It is safer to have it done professionally to ensure that no one else can reprogram your key and 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's easy to do if you already know the procedure. However it can be confusing and difficult to learn on your own. Additionally, this method could be risky and might not work in certain situations. In fact, it's possible that the reprogramming of keys will wipe out your other keys, causing them to stop working. You can prevent this from happening by ensuring that you have two working keys in your possession prior to starting. Make sure your car is turned off when you attempt to program your third keys.
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 quicker. Traditionally, you had to take the key out of your pocket or purse, put it in the ignition, turn it on, and then manually unlock each door. A programmable key enables you to unlock your car's door by pressing the button on the key fob. This is quicker and more secure. It also means you don't need to leave your family members or friends outside your car while search for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it is also simpler to replace it in the case of a damaged or lost one. In many instances, you can purchase an alternative key and have it reprogrammed at an locksmith. This will ensure that your new key will work with your vehicle and will function as you intended. This is a simpler process than replacing the head of the key and will typically cost you less money.
For some vehicles, a specialized programmer is required to reprogramme car key the new key. These advanced devices are expensive and typically only available to professional locksmiths. They also require a great deal of knowledge about how to use them. Some locksmiths use a technique called "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder code.
No matter what kind of key you have, regardless of the type, it's recommended to keep an extra in the case. It is not uncommon to lose your keys to your car. They aren't easy to replace. You don't even know how easy it is for a criminal will find it to steal your car.
You can avoid these issues by purchasing a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-Alock can create you an programmable car key for an affordable cost. This is much less expensive and less stress-inducing than buying a new car if you lose your keys.
