Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a great solution to avoid being locked out in the future. It can be costly based on the car you drive.
Luckily, there are tools available to help shops and even DIY customers create replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your car from some distance
You need a programmed key to start your vehicle. 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 put in, it sends a signal the receiver that is a match to the code inside the chip. If the signal is in line, the car will begin. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car as the code changes constantly and cannot be deciphered.
With the advent of programmable key, it is now impossible to hot-wire your car and drive away. A majority of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from being started when the key isn't within reach. The newest keys are even capable of warming your car from a distance making it easier to drive during cold weather.
With 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 allows you to bypass the anti-theft feature in your vehicle and enter the programming mode for a new key for your vehicle. This kit is not compatible with all vehicles. It is recommended to check your owner's guide to see if it will work with your vehicle.
The key programming procedure is not difficult, however it requires patience and attention to details. You must follow a specific procedure to successfully program your car using a new key. The steps to do this are in your car's manual or online by searching for "onboard programming step X for vehicle." Make sure to keep the ignition and key fobs locked while you are trying to program them, since the inability to wait too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and exit the programming mode.
2. You can unlock the doors simultaneously
You can use a key that is programmable to unlock the doors of your vehicle immediately if you're in a rush and don't have time to wait for family or friends. This is a great feature for those who often miss appointments or are having difficulties finding their vehicles in crowded parking lots. It's also a good idea for people who have children and elderly family members who need help getting in the car.
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, which have cut and grooves that fit into the lock cylinders of your car's door locks and ignition A key that is programmable has an embedded computer chip that is connected to your car's computer systems. The chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer, or auto manufacturer depending on the make and model of your car. Typically, this process is more complicated than making duplicates of the traditional key. It is more time-consuming and costs you more. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the cost of this service.
A trusted locksmith in your area can program your programmable keys for a much lower cost than the dealership or auto parts store, and typically can do it faster too. You'll need two functioning keys for the locksmith to link your new key to your car's computer. Additionally, many modern cars come with advanced anti-theft transponders that need to be programmed specifically for your vehicle by a professional locksmith or dealer.
The process for reprogramming a car key isn't exactly straightforward but there are a few techniques you can try at home. However, it is recommended to refer to the owner's manual or search the Internet for the specific steps for your car's brand and model. Certain manufacturers use proprietary technology that prevents you from being able to reprogramme your key. This is why you should visit an expert locksmith or dealer who has the expertise to help you. You may damage the car's electronic system when you attempt to program your own key. This can be extremely costly to repair, so it's best not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance
Car thieves often target motorists while they try to gain entry into their vehicles. They know that it takes just a few seconds to remove the keys out of your purse or pocket and then put them in the ignition. So they wait for you at times when you're the most vulnerable. You can prevent this with a programmable key that locks your car remotely. This feature is particularly beneficial for people who live in a crowded location or do not want to risk losing their keys.
This feature only if your vehicle is compatible with it. You can check with your auto locksmith or manufacturer to determine 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.
If you lose your car key programmable it is essential to have an extra. You may need to replace the transponder chip in case you don't. It's costly, so it's best to have an additional key. You can also have the key changed by an auto locksmith or dealer. However, reprogramming a car key yourself can be risky. It is safer to have a professional do it so that others cannot reprogram your keys and then steal your car.
Many car owners try to program their own programmable keys by following the online instructions. It's not difficult when you are familiar with the procedure. However it can be complicated and difficult to master by yourself. This method isn't just dangerous, but it might also not work in some instances. In reality, it's possible that the reprogramming of keys will erase your other keys and cause them to stop working. This can be avoided by having two working keys ready before you start. Make sure your vehicle is turned off before you attempt to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The most obvious benefit of a car key is that it can aid in unlocking your door quicker. Traditionally when you want to unlock a door you'd need to remove 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 simply pressing the button on the key fob. This is faster and safer. It also means you don't have to keep your family members or friends in your car while you search for your keys.
It is simpler to replace a programmable lock in the event that you lose or break one. In many instances, you can simply order a replacement key and have it changed by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and works in the way you want it to. This is a simpler procedure than trying to replace the key head itself and can cost you less money.
Some vehicles will require a specialist programer to reprogramme a key. auto car key programmer near me are costly and they are usually only available to locksmiths. They also require a great deal of expertise in the use of them. Some locksmiths may even employ the method known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method of reading the code of your vehicle's transponder.
It is a good idea regardless of the type of key, to always have a spare on the side. Lost car keys are frequent, and they can be a real headache to replace. You don't even know how easy it is for a criminal will find it to steal your car.
Fortunately, you can avoid any of these issues by getting a spare car key that is programmable created in advance. This can be done at your local Pop-Alock locksmith for a low cost. It's much cheaper and less stressful than buying an entirely new car when you lose your original keys.