10 Misconceptions Your Boss Shares Regarding Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is an excellent option to prevent being locked out in the future. It can be costly based on the car you drive.
Luckily, there are tools available to help shops and even DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your car from some distance
To start your vehicle, you'll need keys that are programmed to work with it. The key should have a microchip that is read by the receiver inside the ignition. When the key is put into the ignition, it transmits an encoding signal to the receiver. If the signal matches, the car will begin. This type of technology is more secure than previous methods of locking your car since the code changes constantly and is not able to be deciphered by thieves.
With the advent of a programmable key, it's impossible to connect your car to the hot-wire and drive off. In addition the majority of these vehicles are now equipped with proximity sensors that stop the car from starting if it is not in proximity to the key. The latest keys can allow you to warm your car via remote, making it easier for you to get on the road 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 afar. This kit will allow you to bypass the anti-theft system in your car and enter the mode of programming for a new key for your vehicle. It is important to know that this kit does not work on all cars and you must consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to find out if it works with your specific model of vehicle.
The process of programming keys isn't difficult however it requires patience and attention to detail. You must follow a strict procedure to successfully program your car with the new key. The steps to do this can be found in the car's manual or by searching online for "onboard programming step X vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs in a locked state while you are trying to program them, as waiting too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and then leave the programming mode.
2. You can also unlock the doors simultaneously
You can use a key that is programmable to unlock the doors of your vehicle immediately if you're in an errand and don't have time to wait for friends or family members to arrive. This is a great option for those who often miss appointments or have difficulty finding their car in crowded parking areas. This is a great idea for those with elderly or children who need assistance in getting into their vehicle.
A car key that is programmable differs from a conventional mechanical key, which has grooves and cuts that can be inserted into your car's ignition or door locks. It also has a computer chip linked with the car's computers. This chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer or auto manufacturer, based on the model and make of your car. In general, this procedure is more complex than making a duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and costs you more. There are ways to save money on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your keys at a lower cost than dealerships and can often do it quicker. You will need two working keys for the locksmith in order to link your new key to your computer in your car. Many modern cars also have sophisticated anti-theft devices that need to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
The process for reprogramming a car key isn't easy however there are some techniques you can try at home. However, it is recommended to consult your owner's manual, or search the Internet to find the exact steps for your vehicle's model and brand. Certain manufacturers use proprietary technology that prevents you from being able to reprogramme your key. This is why you should visit an expert locksmith or dealer who is skilled to assist you. You could damage the car's electronic system if you try to program your key on your own. It can be expensive to repair and therefore it is recommended to stay clear of this risk.
3. You can lock your car from a distance
Car thieves usually target drivers as they attempt to unlock their cars. They are aware that it takes only a few seconds for you to pull your keys out of your purse or pocket to place them in your ignition, so they're waiting for you at the exact moment when you are most vulnerable. You can stop this from happening by having a programmable key that locks your car remotely. This feature is particularly useful for people who live in a crowded area or who are afraid of losing their keys.
You can only utilize this feature only if your car 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 allow you to unlock your car remotely.
It is important to keep one spare in case you lose your programmed key. In the event of a loss, you might need to get a new transponder chip. It can be costly, so it's best to have an extra key. You can also have the key reset by an auto locksmith or dealer. However doing it yourself is risky. It is best to have it done professionally so that nobody else is able to reprogram your car key and steal your car.
Many car owners try to program their programmable keys on their own by following the online instructions. It's easy to do if you already know the process. However, it can be difficult and confusing to learn on your own. This method isn't just risky, but it could be ineffective in certain situations. It is possible that key reprogramming could erase all of your other keys, causing them to stop working. You can prevent this from happening by ensuring that you have two keys that work in your possession prior to starting. You should also make sure that your vehicle isn't running while you are trying to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of a programmable key is that you can unlock your doors quicker. In the past, you had remove the key from your purse or pocket and place it in the ignition, turn it on, and then unlock each door manually. With a programmable car keys it is possible to simply press a button on your key fob to open the door, which is much faster and more secure. It also means you don't have to keep your family or friends waiting in your car while you search for your keys.
If you have a programmed car key, it's also simpler to replace it in the event of a damaged or lost one. In most cases, you can simply order a replacement key and then have it reprogrammed by a locksmith. This will ensure that your new key will work with your vehicle and function as you would expect it to. This is a far simpler process than trying to replace the head of the key, and can cost you less money.
programmed car keys may require a specialist programmer to reprogramme the key. These advanced devices are expensive and are usually only accessible to professional locksmiths. These devices are expensive and require a lot of knowledge to use. Some locksmiths will even use methods known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated way to read the code of your vehicle's transponder.
It is a good idea regardless of the type of key, to always have a spare on the side. Keys for cars lost are common, and can be an absolute hassle to replace. You never know how easy it will be for a thief to gain entry into your vehicle and take it away.
Fortunately, you can avoid all of these issues by having an extra car key that can be programmed created in advance. This can be done at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for a reasonable price. This will be far cheaper and less stress-inducing than buying a new car if you lose your keys.