Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming car keys is a great option to ensure that you are not locked out of your car in the future. It can be costly based on the car you drive.
Sanabria says there are tools available to assist shops, and even DIY customers, to program replacement keys and retrieve information from immobilizers.
1. You can start your car from a distance
In order to start your vehicle, you'll need a key that is programmed to work with it. The key should have a microchip that is read by the receiver inside the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, it sends an encoded signal to the receiver. 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 guessed.
It used to be possible to wire a car and then drive away, but thanks to the introduction of programmable keys this has become impossible. Many of these cars also have proximity sensors which prevent the car from being started in the event that the key isn't within range. The latest keys can allow you to warm your car remotely, making it easier for you to drive in cold weather.
Utilizing the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your new key and start your car from an extended distance. This kit will allow you to bypass the anti-theft system of your vehicle and go into mode of programming for a new key for your vehicle. It is important to remember that this kit doesn't work on all cars, and you should consult your owner's manual to find out whether it is compatible with your specific model of vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not difficult, however it requires a lot patience and a keen eye for details. It is imperative to follow a strict procedure in order to successfully program your car with a new key. The steps needed to accomplish this can be found in the 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 waiting too long between steps could cause the car to reset its commands and leave the programming mode.
2. You can also unlock the doors at the same time.
When you are in an urgent situation and don't want to be waiting for your family or friends, you can use a programmable car key to unlock all of the doors at once. This is an excellent feature for those who are always late for appointments or find it difficult to find their car in the crowded parking lots. This is a great idea for those with elderly or young children who require assistance in getting into their car.
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys with grooves and cut-outs that fit into the lock cylinders of your car's ignition and door locks, a programmable key has an embedded computer chip that is linked to the car's computer systems. This chip can be programmed by an auto manufacturer or locksmith depending on the car's make and model. This procedure is typically more complicated than making an exact copy of a traditional car key. It takes longer and will cost you more. There are ways to save money on this service.
A trusted locksmith in your area can program your programmable keys at a lower cost than a dealership or auto parts store, and generally can do it quicker too. You will need two working keys for the locksmith in order to link your new key with the computer in your car. Many modern cars also have advanced anti-theft systems that must be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
There are some methods you can apply at home to re-program the car key. It is best to consult the owner's manual for the particular model of car or search online for the steps. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technology that prevents you from being able to reprogram your key. This is why it's important to visit an experienced locksmith or dealer for assistance with this. mobile key programming could harm the electronic system in your car if you try to program your key on your own. This could be costly to repair, so it's recommended not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from the distance
Car thieves usually target motorists while they try to open their cars. They are aware that it takes a minute for you to grab your keys out of your purse or pocket to place them in your ignition, and they're waiting for you at the time when you're most vulnerable. You can avoid this by using the use of a key that can be programmed to lock your car remotely. This feature is particularly useful for those who live in a congested area or don't want their keys to be lost.
This feature is only available if your car is compatible. Check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to determine whether your car is compatible. You must have an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to unlock your car remotely.
It is crucial to keep an extra in case you lose your programable key. Otherwise, you may need to purchase a new transponder chip. It can be costly so it's recommended to have an additional key. You can also have the key reset by an auto locksmith or dealer. Reprogramming your car key can be dangerous. It is best to get it done by a professional to ensure that no one else can reprogram your key and steal your car.
Many car owners try to program their programmable keys on their own by following online instructions. It can be quite easy to master the process if you're familiar with it, but it's difficult to master by yourself and could be a bit confusing if you are not familiar with it. Moreover, this method can be risky and not work properly in some cases. In reality, it's possible that the reprogramming of keys will erase the other keys and cause them to cease functioning. This is avoided by having two keys that work ready before you start. Make sure that your car is off when you try to program your third keys.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of a programmed key is that it can unlock doors more quickly. 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 keys, however, you can simply press a button on the key fob to unlock the door, which is faster and more secure. It's not necessary to leave your family or friends outside the car while you hunt for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it's also easier to replace it in the event of a broken or lost one. In many cases you can just purchase a replacement key and then have it reset by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and will function as you intended. This is a simpler process than trying to replace the head of the key and can save you money.
For certain vehicles, a specialized programer is required to reprogramme the new key. These advanced devices are expensive and typically only available to professional locksmiths. They also require a lot of experience in using these devices. Some locksmiths use a technique known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder code.
It is a good idea regardless of the type of keys, to always have a spare on hand. Lost car keys are frequent, and they can be an absolute hassle to replace. Also, you don't know how easy a burglar will find it to steal your car.
You can avoid these issues by purchasing a spare programmed key in advance. You can do this at your local Pop-Alock locksmith for a reasonable price. This will be far cheaper and less stressful than buying a new car if you lose your original keys.