Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Car key preprogramming is a great way to prevent getting locked out of your car in the future. However, it could be quite costly dependent on the car you own.
Luckily, there are tools to assist shops and DIY customers program replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from an extended distance
In order to start your car, you require an ignition key that has been programmed to work with it. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip that is capable of being read by a 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, then the car will begin. This method is more secure than other methods of locking your car as the code changes constantly and cannot be deciphered.
It used to be possible to wire a car and drive away, but since the introduction of programmable keys, this is now impossible. A majority of these vehicles have proximity sensors that stop the car from being started if the key is not within range. The latest keys can make your car warm by remote, making it much easier for you to get on the road on cold winter days.
Utilizing 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 your car's anti-theft system and allow you to enter the mode of programming new key for your car. It is important to remember that this kit does not work with all vehicles and you should check the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine what it can do for the model you have chosen for your vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not difficult, but it requires a lot of patience and attention to details. You must follow a strict procedure in order to successfully program your car with the new key. The steps to do this can be found in your car's manual or online by searching for "onboard programming step X vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs in a locked state while you are trying to program them, since waiting too long between steps could cause the car to reset its commands and then leave the programming mode.
2. You can unlock the doors at the same time.
When you are in an urgent situation and do not want to wait for your family or friends, you can use a programmable car key to unlock all of the doors simultaneously. This is a useful feature for those who are always late for appointments or are unable to find their car in the crowded parking areas. programming car keys is a great idea for those who have elderly or young children who require assistance getting into their car.
A programmable car key differs from a conventional mechanical key, which is made of grooves and cuts that fit in the ignition of your car or door locks. It also has an electronic chip that is connected to the car's computers. The chip can be programmed by a locksmith or auto manufacturer, depending on your vehicle's make and model. This process is usually more complex than creating copies of the traditional car key. It takes longer and will cost you more. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on this service.
Local locksmiths can program programmable keys at a lower cost than dealerships and often faster. But, you'll require two working keys to allow the locksmith to connect your new key to the computer system of your car. In addition, many contemporary cars come with advanced anti-theft transponders that need to be programmed specifically for your vehicle by a trained locksmith or dealer.
There are some tricks you can use at home to re-program your car key. It is best to consult the owner's manual for the specific car model or search online for the steps. Some manufacturers use proprietary technology that blocks you from being able to reprogram your key. This is why you must visit a locksmith or dealer who has the expertise to help you. In the event that you attempt to program your personal key can cause damage to the car's electronic components. It's costly to repair, so it's best to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance
Car thieves often target drivers while they are trying to gain entry into their vehicles. They know that it takes only a few seconds for you to grab your keys out of your purse or pocket and to place them in the ignition, and they're waiting for you at the time that you are at your most vulnerable. You can avoid this by using an electronic key that locks your car remotely. This feature is particularly beneficial for people who live in a crowded area or if they don't want to risk losing their keys.
You can only use this feature if your vehicle is compatible with it. You can check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to see whether your car is compatible. To unlock your car remotely you will require an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later and you must be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
If you lose your car key programmable, it is important to have an extra. Otherwise, you may need to purchase a replacement transponder chip. It's expensive, so it's best to have an extra key. You can also get the key reset by an auto locksmith or a dealer. However, reprogramming a car key yourself can be risky. It is best to do it professionally, so that others cannot reprogram your car key and steal your car.
Many car owners try to program their programmable keys themselves by following the online instructions. It's not difficult when you are familiar with the procedure, but it's difficult to learn on your own and can be a bit confusing if you are not familiar with it. Additionally, this method could be risky and not work in certain cases. In reality, it's possible that the key reprogramming will wipe out your other keys, causing them to cease functioning. This is prevented by having two keys working ready before you start. You should also ensure that your vehicle isn't running while you are trying to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of a programmed key is that you can unlock your doors faster. Traditionally, you needed to remove the key from your pocket or purse, put it in the ignition, turn it, and then manually unlock each door. With a programmable car keys, however, you can simply push a button on the key fob to unlock the door, which is quicker and more secure. You don't need to leave your family or friends in the car while you hunt for your keys.
It is easier to replace a programmable lock in the event you break or lose one. In most cases, you can order a replacement and have it reprogrammed at the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will work with your vehicle, and work as intended. This is a much simpler process than attempting to replace the head of the key and will typically save you some money.
For some vehicles, a specialized programer is required to reprogram the new key. These devices are expensive, and they are usually only accessible to locksmiths. These devices are expensive and require a great deal of knowledge to use. Some locksmiths even employ the method known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method of reading the code that is on the transponder in your vehicle.
No matter what kind of key you own, however, it's recommended to keep an extra key in your pocket. Lost car keys are very frequent, and they can be an absolute pain in the neck to replace. You don't even know how easy a burglar is to rob your car.
You can avoid these problems by purchasing a spare programmed key in advance. You can get this done at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for an affordable price. This is much less expensive and less stressful than buying a new car if you lose your original keys.