A Proactive Rant About Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Pre programming car keys is a great method to avoid being locked out of your car in the future. It can be costly based on the vehicle you own.
Luckily, there are tools that can help shops and even DIY customers program replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from an undetermined distance
In order to start your car, you require keys that are programmed to work with it. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip in it that is capable of being read by a receiver inside the ignition. When the key is inserted, it sends out a signal to the receiver that matches the code in the chip. If the signal is in line, the car will start. This type of technology is much safer than the other methods of locking your vehicle, as the code is constantly changing and cannot be guessed by thieves.
With the advent of programmable key, it's impossible to connect your car to the hot-wire and drive off. A lot of these cars have proximity sensors that stop the car from starting if the key is not within range. The latest keys are capable of warming up your car from a distance which makes it easier to drive on cold winter days.
Using 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 your car's anti-theft device and allow you to enter the programming mode of new automotive keys. It is important to remember that this kit does not work with all vehicles and you must consult the owner's manual to determine what it can do for your particular model of vehicle.
The key programming process is not difficult, but it does require a lot of patience and concentration on the details. To successfully program your car with a new program, you must follow a specific method. The steps for doing this can be found in the manual of your car or by searching online for "onboard programming step X for vehicle." Make sure to keep the ignition and key fobs in a locked state when you attempt to program them, since the inability to wait too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and then leave the programming mode.
2. You can open the doors simultaneously
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 the time to wait around for your family or friends. This is a great feature for those who are often late for appointments or have difficulty finding their car in crowded parking areas. It is also a good idea for families with children or elderly relatives who need assistance in getting into the car.
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, that have grooves and cuts that fit into the lock cylinder of your car's door locks and ignition, a programmable key has an internal computer chip that is connected to your car's computer systems. This chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer or auto manufacturer based on the make and model of your vehicle. It is generally more complex than making duplicates of the traditional key. It is more time-consuming and costs you more. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the cost of this service.
Local locksmiths can program your keys for less than the dealership and often faster. You will need two working keys for the locksmith to connect your new key to your car's computer. In addition, many modern cars have advanced anti-theft transponders that need to be programmed specifically for your vehicle by a trained locksmith or dealer.
The process of reprogramming a car key isn't a simple process, and there are some tricks you can try at home. However, it is best to consult your owner's manual or search the Internet to find the exact steps for your specific car's model and brand. Some manufacturers use proprietary technology which prevents you from being in a position to reprogram your key. This is why you should consult a locksmith or dealer that is experienced to get help. Attempting to program your own key can cause damage to the car's electronic components. This could be costly to repair, so it is recommended not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from an extended distance
Car thieves often target drivers while they are trying to unlock their cars. They are aware that it takes only a few seconds to retrieve your keys out of your purse or pocket, and put them into the ignition. They'll be waiting for you to be vulnerable. Luckily, you can prevent this from happening by locking your car from a distance by using the ability to program your car keys. This feature is especially useful for people who live in a crowded area or if they are afraid of losing their keys.
This feature only if your car is compatible with it. To ensure that your car is compatible, you can inquire with the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. To unlock your car remotely you need an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later and be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
It is important to keep an extra in case you lose your programable key. If not, you may have to purchase a new transponder chip. It can be costly and it's advisable to have an extra key. You can also get the key reprogrammed by an auto locksmith or dealer. However the process of reprogramming a car's key yourself can be dangerous. It is recommended to hire a professional to 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's not difficult when you are familiar with the procedure. However, it can be complicated and difficult to master by yourself. Furthermore, this method can be dangerous and may not function properly in certain situations. It's possible that reprogramming your keys could erase all of your other keys, causing them to cease to function. This is prevented by having two keys working prepared prior to starting. You should also make sure that your car is not running while you attempt to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The most obvious benefit of a programmable car key is that it will help you unlock your door faster. Traditionally to unlock a door you'd have to take your key from your pocket, purse or wallet, put it in the ignition, and turn it. A key that is programmable allows you to open your car's doors by simply pressing a button on the key fob. This is faster and safer. It also means you don't need to leave your friends or family waiting outside your car while you hunt for your keys.
If you have a programmed car key, it is also simpler to replace it in the event of a lost or broken one. In many instances, you can request an alternate key and then have it reprogrammed by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and functions in the way you want it to. This is a much easier process than replacing the head of the key and it will usually cost you less money.
For certain vehicles, a specialized programer is required to reprogram the new key. These sophisticated devices are costly and typically only available to professional locksmiths. They are costly and require a lot of experience to use. Some locksmiths employ a method called "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder's code.
It is a good idea, regardless of the type of keys, to always have a spare key on the side. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They can be a challenge to replace. Plus, you don't know how easy a burglar is to rob your car.
Fortunately, you can avoid any of these issues by getting a spare programmable car key made in advance. Pop-A-Lock can create a programmable car key at an affordable price. It's much cheaper and less stress-inducing than buying an entirely new car when you lose your original keys.