Blog entry by Homer Nesbitt
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming car keys is a great way to avoid being locked out of your car in the future. It can be expensive depending on the car you drive.
Sanabria says there are tools that can help shops, and even DIY customers, program replacement keys and restore data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from an undetermined distance
You need a programmed key to start your vehicle. This means that the key has to have a specific microchip that is capable of being read by a receiver inside the ignition. When the mobile key programmer is put into the ignition, it sends an encoding signal to the receiver. If the signal matches, the car will begin. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car, since the code is always changing and cannot be deciphered.
With the advent of a programmable key, it's impossible to wire your car and drive away. In addition the majority of these vehicles now have proximity sensors that stop the car from starting if it's not within range of the key. The latest keys can make your car warm by remote, making it much easier to travel during cold days.
Utilizing the EZ installer from Tom's Key Company it is now possible to program your new key and start your car from afar. This kit lets you bypass the anti-theft system of your car and allow you to enter the programming mode of a new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all cars. You should check the owner's manual to determine what it can do for your vehicle.
The key programming process is not complicated however it requires patience and focus on detail. It is imperative to follow a strict procedure to successfully program your car with a new key. You can locate the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual or on the internet for "onboard program step X vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked when you try to program them.
2. You can open all of the doors at once.
You can use a key that is programmable to unlock the doors of your car immediately if you're in hurry and don't have the time to wait for family or friends. This is a fantastic feature for those who often miss appointments or who have difficulty finding their car in crowded parking areas. It is also a good idea for those with children or elderly family members who need help getting in the car.
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys with grooves and cut-outs that fit into the lock cylinders of your car's ignition and door locks A programmable key comes with a computer chip inside that is linked 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 car. Typically, this process is more complex than making a duplicate of a traditional key reprogramming. It takes longer and is more expensive. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the cost of this service.
Local locksmiths can program programmable keys for less than the dealership and are often quicker. However, you will require two functioning keys in order for the locksmith to connect your new key to your car's computer system. Modern cars are also equipped with advanced anti-theft systems that must be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
There are some tricks you can use at home to re-program your car key. It is recommended to refer to the owner's manual for your particular model of car or go online to find the steps. Some manufacturers have proprietary technologies that stop you from reprograming your key. This is why it's important to visit an experienced dealer or locksmith for help with this. You could harm the electronic system in your car in the event that you attempt to program your key yourself. It's costly to repair, so it's best to stay clear of this risk.
3. You can lock your car from the distance
Car thieves are often targeting drivers as they attempt to unlock their cars. They know it takes you a few seconds to take your keys from your pocket or purse and then put them in the ignition. So they wait for you when you're most vulnerable. You can avoid this by locking your vehicle at a distance using a programmable car key. This feature is especially useful for people who live in a busy area or if they do not want to risk losing their keys.
This feature if your vehicle is compatible with it. To make sure your car is compatible, consult 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 important to keep an extra in case you lose your programable key. In the event of a loss, you might need to purchase a new transponder chip. It's costly, so it's best to have an additional key. You can also get the key changed by an auto locksmith or a dealer. Reprogramming your own car keys can be dangerous. It is best to do it professionally, so that others cannot reprogram your car key and steal your car.
There are many car owners who try to program their own car keys that are programmable by following online instructions. It's not difficult when you are familiar with the procedure however, it can be difficult to master on your own and may be a bit confusing if you aren't familiar with the procedure. Additionally, this method could be risky and might not work properly in some cases. In fact, it's possible that the reprogramming car key process will erase the other keys and cause them to cease functioning. You can avoid this by ensuring that you have two functioning keys at hand prior to starting. Make sure your vehicle is turned off before you try to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of a programmed key is that you can unlock your doors quicker. Traditionally, you needed to take the key out of your pocket or purse and place it in the ignition, turn it on, and then unlock each door manually. A programmable key allows you to open your car's doors by simply pressing a button on the key fob. This is faster and more secure. It's not necessary to leave your family or friends in the car while you look for your keys.
If you own a programmable car key programmers key, it's also easier to replace it in the case of a lost or broken one. In most cases you can just purchase a replacement key and then have it reprogrammed 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 much simpler process than replacing the key head and can save you money.
Certain vehicles may require a special programmer to reprogramme the key. These sophisticated devices are costly and are typically only available to professional locksmiths. They also require a great deal of expertise in the use of them. Some locksmiths employ a method known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder key programmer's code.
It is a good idea regardless of the type of key, to always have a spare key on hand. It is not uncommon to lose your keys to your car. They can be difficult to replace. You don't even know how to reprogram car key easy a thief will find it to steal your car.
Fortunately, you can get rid of any of these issues by getting a spare programmable car key created in advance. This can be done at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for a low cost. It's much cheaper and less stressful than buying a new car after you lose your original keys.