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 assist shops and DIY customers program replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your car from an undetermined distance
You need a programmed key to start your vehicle. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip that is accessible to a receiver in the ignition. When the key is inserted it emits a signal to the receiver that is in line with the code on the chip. If the signal is in line, the car will start. This kind of technology is safer than the other methods of locking your car, as the code changes constantly and cannot be guessed by thieves.
With the advent of programmable key, it is now impossible to hot-wire your car and drive away. In addition, many of these vehicles now have proximity sensors that block the car from starting if it is not within the proximity to the key. The latest keys can warm up your car via remote, making it easier to travel on cold winter days.
Utilizing the EZ installer from Tom's Key Company it is now possible for you to program your new key and start your car from afar. This kit allows you to bypass the anti-theft system of your vehicle and go into programming mode for a brand new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all automobiles. 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 however, it requires a lot of patience and attention to detail. It is imperative to follow a strict procedure in order to successfully program your car using the new key. The steps to do this can be found in the manual of your car or on the internet for "onboard programming step X vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs locked while you program them, as waiting too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and leave the programming mode.
2. You can unlock the doors at the same time.
You can use a key that is programmable to unlock the doors of your car quickly if you're a rush and don't have time wait around for your family or friends. This is an excellent feature to have for people who are frequently late for appointments or have difficulties finding their vehicles in crowded parking areas. This is a great option for those who have elderly or children who need assistance in getting into their vehicle.
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys with grooves and cut-outs that fit into the lock cylinder of your car's ignition and door locks, a programmable key has an embedded computer chip that is connected to your car's computer systems. This chip can be programmed by either an auto manufacturer or locksmith based on your vehicle's make and model. It is generally more complex than making a duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and will cost you more. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the cost of this service.
Local locksmiths can program your keys at a lower cost than dealerships and are often faster. But, you'll require two working keys to allow the locksmith to connect your new key to your car's computer system. In addition, many contemporary cars come with advanced anti-theft transponders that need to be specifically programmed for your car by a certified locksmith or dealer.
There are a few techniques you can employ at home to reprogram your car key. It is best to consult the owner's manual of your specific car model or search online for the steps. Some manufacturers have proprietary technologies that stop you from reprogramming your own key, which is why it is important to seek out an experienced locksmith or dealer for assistance with this. You could harm the car's electronic system when you attempt to program your key on your own. It's costly to fix, so it's best to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from an extended distance
Car thieves are often targeting motorists while they try to unlock their cars. They are aware that it takes just a few seconds to remove your keys out of your purse or pocket and then put them in the ignition. Therefore, they are waiting for you to be vulnerable. You can avoid this by using an electronic key that locks your vehicle remotely. This feature is especially beneficial for those who live in a congested area or are worried that their keys could be lost.
This feature is only available if your car is compatible. To make sure your car is compatible, inquire with the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. You must have an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to unlock your vehicle remotely.
It is crucial to keep one spare in case you lose your programmed key. If not, you may have to get a new transponder chip. It's costly and it's advisable to have an additional key. You can also have the key reset by an auto locksmith or dealer. Reprogramming your own car key could be risky. It is recommended to have it done professionally so that nobody else is able to reprogram your car key and steal your car.
There are many motorists who try to program their own programmable car keys by following online instructions. It's not difficult if you already know the procedure. However it can be difficult and confusing to learn on your own. Moreover, this method can be dangerous and may not work properly in some situations. In reality, it's possible that the key reprogramming will erase your other keys and cause them to cease working. This is avoided by having two keys that work ready prior to beginning. Make sure that your car is off when you attempt to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of a programmed key is that it can unlock your doors quicker. Traditionally, to unlock a door you'd have to take your key from your pocket, purse, or wallet, place it in the ignition and turn it. A programmable key enables you to open your car door by pressing an icon on the key fob. This is faster and safer. It also means that you don't need to leave your friends or family waiting outside your car while you look for your keys.
It is easier to replace a programmable key in the event you break or lose one. In many cases you can order an alternate key and then have it reprogrammed by the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and will function as you intended. car key programming is a much simpler procedure than trying to replace the key head itself and can save you some money.
For some vehicles, a special programer is required to reprogramme the new key. These devices are expensive, and they are usually only available to locksmiths. They also require a great deal of expertise in the use of these devices. Some locksmiths employ a method 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 the side. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They can be a challenge to replace. Plus, you never know how easy it will be for a thief to get into your car and take it away.
Fortunately, you can steer clear of all of these issues by having a spare car key that is programmable prepared in advance. You can get this done at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for an affordable price. It's much cheaper and less stressful than buying a new car after you lose your original keys.