Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a fantastic option to avoid being locked out in the future. It can be costly based on the car you drive.
There are tools that can help shops and DIY customers create replacement keys and restore immobilizer data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from a distance
You require a key that is programmed to turn on your vehicle. This means that the key has to have a specific microchip in it that is readable by a receiver in the ignition. When the key is put into the ignition, it transmits a code-matching signal to the receiver. If the signal matches with the chip, the car will begin. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car, because the code is constantly changing and cannot be deciphered.
With the advent of programmable keys, it's now impossible to wire your car and drive away. A majority of these vehicles have proximity sensors which prevent the car from starting if the key is not within range. The most recent keys can warm up your car remotely, making it easier for you to drive on cold winter days.
Utilizing the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own new key and start your car from the distance. This kit allows you to bypass your car's anti-theft device and enter the mode of programming new automotive keys. This kit is not compatible with all cars. You should consult your owner's guide to see if it will work with your vehicle.
The process of programming keys isn't difficult, but it does require patience and focus on detail. You must follow a strict procedure to successfully program your car using a new key. You can learn the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual, or search on the internet for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked when you are trying to program them.
2. You can unlock all of the doors at the same time
If you're in an urgent situation and do not want to wait for your family or friends to arrive, you can use an auto key that can be programmed to unlock all of the doors at the same time. This is a great feature for those who often miss appointments or who have difficulty finding their car in crowded parking areas. This is a great idea for those with elderly or young children who require assistance getting into their car.
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys that have grooves and cuts that fit into the lock cylinders of your car's ignition and door locks, a programmable key has an embedded computer chip which is connected to the car's computer systems. This chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer, or auto manufacturer depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Typically, this process is more complicated than creating a duplicate of a traditional key. It is more time-consuming and costs you more. There are ways to save on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your programmable keys for less than the dealership and often quicker. You'll need two working keys for the locksmith to link your new key with the computer in your car. A lot of modern cars also have sophisticated anti-theft devices that need to be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
There are a few methods you can apply at home to reprogram your car key. It is recommended to refer to the owner's manual of your specific car model or search online for the steps. Certain manufacturers employ proprietary technology which prevents you from being in a position to change the programming of your key. This is why you should consult a locksmith or dealer that has the expertise to help you. You could harm the electronic system in your car if you try to program your key on your own. This can be very expensive to repair, so it's recommended not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your car from the distance
Car thieves target drivers as they try to open their vehicles. They are aware that it takes a minute for you to grab your keys from your purse or pocket to place them in the ignition, and they're waiting for you at the exact moment when you are most vulnerable. You can avoid this by using the use of a key that can be programmed to lock your vehicle remotely. This feature is particularly beneficial for people who live in a crowded area or who don't want to risk losing their keys.
You can only use this feature only if your car is compatible with it. To confirm that your vehicle is compatible, you can check with the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. To unlock your car remotely, you must have 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 essential to have an extra. If not, you may have to get a new transponder chip. It's expensive, so it's best to have an extra key. You can also get your key reprogrammed. This can be done by a dealer or an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your own car key could be risky. It is best to have a professional do the job so that other people cannot reprogram your keys and possibly steal your vehicle.
There are a lot of car owners who try to program their own programmable car keys 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 aren't experienced with the procedure. Moreover, programming car key can be risky and might not work in certain cases. It is possible that key reprogramming can erase all your other keys, making them cease to function. This can be avoided by having two keys that work ready before you start. Make sure your car is off when you attempt to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a programmed key is that you can unlock your doors faster. Traditionally, you had to take the key out of your purse or pocket and then put it in the ignition, turn it on, and then manually unlock each door. With a programmable car keys, however, you can simply push the button on the key fob to unlock the door, which is much faster and more secure. It also means that you don't need to leave your family or friends waiting in your car while you look for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it's also simpler to replace it in the event of a damaged or lost one. In many instances you can simply purchase a replacement key and then have it changed by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle, and function as you would expect it to. This is a simpler procedure than trying to replace the head of the key, and will typically save you money.
Certain vehicles may require a specialized programer to reprogramme a key. These sophisticated devices are costly and typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. They are costly and require a lot of experience to use. Some locksmiths even employ methods known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method of reading the code that is on the transponder in your vehicle.
It is a good idea regardless of the type of keys, to always have a spare key on hand. Lost car keys are very frequent, and they can be an absolute pain in the neck to replace. Plus, you never know how easy it would be for a burglar to get into your car and steal it.
You can avoid these issues by ordering a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-Alock can create you an auto key that is programmable at a reasonable price. This is a much cheaper and less stressful alternative than purchasing an entirely new car after losing your original keys.