Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car key is a great way to avoid being locked out of your car in the future. It could be costly depending on the vehicle you own.
Sanabria says that there are tools to assist shops, and even DIY customers, to program replacement keys and restore information from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from a distance
You will require a programmed key to turn on your vehicle. The key must be equipped with a microchip that can be read by the receiver inside the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an encoded signal to the receiver. If the signal matches, the car will start. This type of technology is much more secure than other methods of locking your car since the code changes constantly and is unable to be detected by thieves.
With the advent of programmable keys, it's now impossible to connect your car to the hot-wire and drive off. In addition the majority of these vehicles now have proximity sensors that stop the car from starting if it's not within the reach of the key. The most recent keys can make your car warm by remote, making it much easier to drive on cold winter days.
With the EZ installer from Tom's Key Company it is now possible for you to program your new key and start your car from a distance. This kit lets you bypass your car's anti-theft system and allow you to enter the mode of programming new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all automobiles. You should consult the owner's manual to see whether it is compatible with your vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not difficult, but it requires a lot patience and attention to details. To program your car successfully with a new system, you need to follow a specific method. The steps to do this can be found in the manual of your car or on the internet for "onboard programming step X of your vehicle." Make sure to keep the ignition and key fobs secured while you are trying to program them, since waiting too long between steps could cause the car to reset its commands and exit the programming mode.
2. You can unlock all of the doors simultaneously.
When you are in an urgent situation and don't want to wait for your friends or family, you can use an auto key that can be programmed to unlock all of the doors at once. This is an excellent feature for those who are often late for appointments or have trouble finding their cars in crowded parking areas. It's also a good idea for those with children or elderly relatives who require assistance getting into their car.
A car key that can be programmed differs from a traditional mechanical key that has grooves and cuts that fit into your car's ignition or door locks. It also comes with an electronic chip that is linked with the car's computers. The chip can be programmed by either a locksmith or auto manufacturer based on your vehicle's make and model. In general, this procedure is more complex than making duplicates of the traditional key. It takes longer and will cost you more. There are ways to cut costs on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your programmable keys at a lower cost than dealerships and can often do it quicker. You'll need two functioning keys for the locksmith to connect your new key to your computer in your car. In addition, many modern cars come with advanced anti-theft transponders that need to be programmed specifically for your vehicle by a trained locksmith or dealer.
There are a few tricks you can use at home to re-program 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 have proprietary technologies that stop you from reprograming your key. This is why it is important to visit an experienced locksmith or dealer for assistance with this. You could harm the car's electronic system when you attempt to program your key yourself. This can be very expensive to repair, so it is recommended not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from the distance
Car thieves target drivers when they try to open their vehicles. They are aware that it takes a few seconds to take your keys from your pocket or purse and put them into the ignition. So programing keys wait for you to be vulnerable. You can avoid this by using the use of a key that can be programmed to lock your car remotely. This feature is especially beneficial for those who live in a crowded area or are worried that their keys could be lost.
You can only utilize this feature only if your vehicle is compatible with it. To ensure that your car 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 have lost your car key that is programmable it is essential to have an extra. Otherwise, you may need to get a new transponder chip. This can be expensive, so it is best to keep an extra key on hand. You can also have your key reprogrammed. This can be done by an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your car key could be risky. It is safer to have a professional do the job so that other people cannot reprogram your keys and steal your vehicle.
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 on your own and may be somewhat confusing if you aren't familiar with it. Moreover, this method can be dangerous and may not work properly in some cases. It's possible that key reprogramming can wipe out all of your other keys, making them cease to function. You can prevent this from happening by making sure that you have two keys that work at hand prior to starting. You should also make sure that your car is not running when you try to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a car key is that it can assist you in unlocking your door quicker. Traditionally to unlock a door you would have to remove your key from your pocket, purse, or wallet, place it in the ignition and turn it. A programmable key allows you to unlock your car's door by simply pressing an icon on the key fob. This is faster and safer. It also means you don't have to keep your family members or friends outside your car while you hunt for your keys.
If you own a programmable car key, it's also easier to replace it in the event of a damaged or lost one. In most cases, you can purchase an alternate key and have it reprogrammed at a locksmith. This will ensure that your new key will work with your vehicle and work as intended. This is a much simpler process than replacing the head of the key and will typically save you money.
Certain vehicles will require a specialist programmer to reprogramme a new key. These devices are expensive, and are generally only available to locksmiths. These devices are expensive and require a lot of experience to use. Some locksmiths use a technique known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder's code.
Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it's recommended to keep a spare handy. It is not uncommon to lose your keys to your car. They can be a challenge to replace. Plus, you don't know how easy a burglar can be to rob your car.
You can avoid these problems by purchasing a spare programmable key in advance. You can get this done at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for a reasonable price. This will be far cheaper and less stressful than having to buy an entirely new car when you lose your keys.