Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car key is a great method to ensure that you are not locked out of your car in the future. However, it could be quite costly depending on the car you own.
Sanabria says there are tools that can assist shops, and even DIY customers, to program replacement keys and retrieve information from immobilizers.
1. You can start your car from a distance
You require a key that is programmed to turn on your vehicle. This means that the key needs to have a specific microchip inside it that can be 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 is a match to the code inside the chip. If the signal matches, 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.
With the advent of programmable keys, it's now impossible to hot-wire your car and drive off. A majority of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from being started if the key is not within reach. The newest keys are even capable of warming your car from an infinity distance, making it easier to travel on cold winter days.
Using 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 will allow you to bypass the anti-theft system of your vehicle and enter the programming mode for a brand new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all cars. It is recommended to check your owner's guide to see whether it is compatible with your vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not complicated, but it does require patience and attention to detail. To successfully program your car using a new model system, you need to follow a specific process. The steps for doing this can be found in your car's manual or online by searching for "onboard programming step X for vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs secured while you are trying to program them, as waiting too long between steps could cause the car to reset its commands and then leave the programming mode.
2. You can unlock all of the doors at the same time
When you are in the midst of a rush and do not want to wait for your friends or family, you can use a programmable car key to unlock all of the doors simultaneously. This is a great feature for those who always arrive late for appointments or are unable to locate their car in crowded parking areas. It's also a good idea for those with children or elderly relatives who require assistance getting into the car.
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys with grooves and cut-outs that fit into the lock cylinder of your vehicle's ignition and door locks A programmable key comes with 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 depending on the model and make of your car. This process is usually more complex than making a copy of a traditional car key. It takes longer and costs you more. There are ways to save money on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your programmable keys for less than the dealership and can often do it quicker. But, you'll require two functioning keys to allow the locksmith to connect your new key to the computer system of your car. In addition, many modern cars come with advanced anti-theft transponders that need to be specifically programmed for your car by a professional locksmith or dealer.
There are a few tricks you can use at home to reprogram the car key. However, it is best to consult your owner's manual or search the Internet for the specific steps for your vehicle's brand and model. Some manufacturers have proprietary technology that prevents you from reprogramming your own key, which is why it's important to seek out an experienced locksmith or dealer to assist in this. Attempting to program your own key could damage the car's electronic systems. It's costly to fix, so it's best to stay clear of this risk.
3. You can lock your car from the distance
Car thieves target drivers as they attempt to unlock their vehicles. They are aware that it takes a minute for you to grab your keys out of your pocket or purse and to place them in your ignition, and they're waiting for you at the moment when you are most vulnerable. Fortunately, you can avoid this by locking your car from a distance by using the ability to program your car keys. This feature is particularly useful for those who live in a crowded area or do not want their keys to be lost.
This feature only if your car is compatible with it. Check with your auto locksmith or manufacturer to determine whether your vehicle is compatible. To unlock your car remotely you need an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later and you must be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
It is crucial to keep one spare in case you lose your programmed key. It is possible that you will require replacing the transponder chip if you don't. It's expensive and it's advisable to have an extra key. You can also get your key reprogrammed, which can be done by a dealer or an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your own car keys could be risky. It is safer to hire a professional to do it so that others can't reprogram your key, and then steal your car.
There are many car owners who try to program their own programmable car keys by following online instructions. It's not difficult to master the process if you're familiar with it however it is difficult to master on your own and can be a bit confusing if you aren't familiar with it. This method is not only dangerous, but it may also not work in some cases. In fact, it's possible that the reprogramming of keys will wipe out your other keys, causing them to stop working. This is avoided by having two keys working ready prior to beginning. Make sure that your car is off when you try to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of having a programmed key is that it can unlock doors more quickly. Traditionally, you needed to take the key out of your pocket or purse, put it in the ignition, turn it, and then manually unlock each door. With a car key that is programmable it is possible to simply press the button on your key fob to open the door, which is much more convenient and safer. You don't have to leave your family or friends waiting outside your car while you hunt for your keys.
It is simpler to replace a key that is programmable in the event you have to replace or break one. In many cases you can purchase an alternate key and have it reprogrammed by the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and works exactly as you intended. This is a far easier process than attempting to replace the head of the key and will typically save you some money.
Certain vehicles may require a specialized programer to reprogramme a key. These devices are costly, and are typically only available to locksmiths. They also require extensive knowledge about how to use them. Some locksmiths use a technique called "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder code.
It is a good idea regardless of the type of keys, to always have a spare key on hand. It is not uncommon to lose your keys to your car. They can be a challenge to replace. automotive key programming don't even know how easy a thief will find it to steal your car.
You can avoid these issues by purchasing a spare programmed key in advance. This can be done at your local Pop-Alock locksmith for an affordable price. This is a less expensive and less stressful option than having to purchase an entirely new car after losing your original keys.