Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a fantastic option to avoid being locked out in the future. It could be costly depending on the car you drive.
Luckily, there are tools to help shops and DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your car from a distance
You require a key that is programmed to turn on your vehicle. The key must have an embedded microchip that can be read by the receiver in the ignition. When the key is put into the ignition, it transmits an encoding signal to the receiver. If the signal matches then the car will start. This method is more secure than other methods of locking your car as the code changes constantly and cannot be deciphered.
With the advent of a programmable key, it is now impossible to wire your car and drive away. A majority of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting if the key is not within range. The latest keys can even make your car warm by remote, making it much easier 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 own new key and start your vehicle from the distance. This kit allows you to bypass the anti-theft system of your vehicle and enter the mode of programming for a new automotive key. It is important to remember that this kit will not work on all vehicles and you must consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to find out whether it is compatible with your specific model of vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not complicated however it requires patience and attention to detail. You must follow a specific procedure to successfully program your car using the new key. The steps for doing this can be found in the manual of your car or online by searching for "onboard programming step X for vehicle." Make sure to keep the ignition and key fobs secured while you program them, as 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 simultaneously
If you're in the midst of a rush 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 simultaneously. This is a useful feature for people who are always late to appointments or have trouble to find their car in the crowded parking areas. This is a great idea for those who have elderly or children who need assistance in getting into their car.
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys with grooves and cut-outs that fit into the lock cylinder of your car's door locks and ignition A key that is programmable has an internal computer chip which is connected to the car's computer systems. The chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer or auto manufacturer, based on the make and model of your vehicle. This procedure is typically more complex than making a copy of a traditional car key. It takes longer and costs you more. There are automotive key programming to save money on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your programmable keys for less than the dealership and can often do it quicker. You'll need two functioning keys for the locksmith in order to link your new key to the computer in your car. In addition, many modern automobiles have sophisticated anti-theft transponders that must be specifically programmed for your car by a certified locksmith or dealer.
There are some techniques you can employ at home to re-program a car key. However, it is best to refer to the owner's manual, or search the Internet for the specific steps for your specific car's model and brand. Certain manufacturers use proprietary technology which prevents you from being in a position to change the programming of your key. This is why you should consult an expert locksmith or dealer who is experienced to get help. In the event that you attempt to program your personal key could cause damage to the car's electronic systems. It can be expensive to repair, so it's best to stay clear of this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance
Car thieves target drivers as they try to open their vehicles. They know that it takes a minute for you to pull your keys from your purse or pocket and to put them in the ignition, so they're waiting for you at the exact moment that you are at your most vulnerable. You can avoid this by locking your car from a distance with the ability to program your car keys. This feature is especially useful for those who live in a congested area or do not want their keys to be lost.
You can only utilize this feature only if your car is compatible with it. To confirm that your vehicle is compatible, you can inquire with the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. You must possess an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to allow you to unlock your car remotely.
It is crucial to keep an extra in case you lose your programmed key. You may require replacing the transponder chip if don't. It can be costly so it's recommended to have an extra key. You can also have the key reprogrammed by an auto locksmith or dealer. Reprogramming your own car key could be risky. It is safer to get a professional do the job so that other people cannot reprogram your keys and steal your vehicle.
Many car owners try to program their own programmable keys by following online instructions. It can be quite easy if you know the process, but it's difficult to learn on your own and can be a bit confusing if you aren't experienced with the procedure. Additionally, this method could be risky and not work in certain cases. It is possible that the reprogramming of keys will erase the other keys and cause them to stop working. This is avoided by having two keys that work ready prior to beginning. Make sure that your vehicle is turned off before you try to program your third keys.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a programmed key is that it can unlock your doors quicker. Traditionally, you needed to remove the key from your purse or pocket and place it in the ignition, turn it on, and then unlock each door manually. A programmable key allows you to unlock your car's door by simply pressing the button on the key fob. This is faster and safer. This also means that you don't have to keep your family or friends waiting outside your car while look for your keys.
If you have a programmed car key, it is also simpler to replace it in the case of a damaged or lost one. In most cases, you can request an alternate key and have it reprogrammed by an locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and functions in the way you want it to. This is a simpler process than replacing the key head and can save you money.
For some vehicles, a special programmer is required to reprogramme the new key. These devices are costly and are typically only available to locksmiths. They also require extensive expertise in the use of them. Some locksmiths will even use a method called "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method to read the code that is on your vehicle's transponder.
Regardless of what type of key you have, regardless of the type, it's a good idea to keep an extra in the case. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They aren't easy to replace. Plus, you don't know how easy a thief is to rob your car.
Fortunately, you can get rid of any of these issues by getting a spare programmable car key created in advance. You can do this at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for a reasonable price. This is much less expensive and less stressful than having to buy an entirely new car when you lose your keys.