10 No-Fuss Strategies To Figuring Out Your Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is an excellent solution to avoid being locked out in the future. It can be expensive depending on your car.
Luckily, there are tools to assist shops and DIY customers create replacement keys and restore immobilizer data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from an undetermined distance
You need a programmed key to start your car. The key must be equipped with an embedded microchip that can be read by the receiver inside the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, it sends an encoding signal to the receiver. If the signal is in line the code, then the car will begin. This type of technology is far more secure than traditional methods of locking your car because the code is constantly changing and cannot be guessed by thieves.
With the advent of a programmable key, it's impossible to hot-wire your car and drive off. Many of these cars also come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from being started if the key is not within reach. The newest keys are even capable of warming up your car from some distance, making it easier to get on the road 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 vehicle from the distance. This kit allows you to bypass the anti-theft system in your vehicle and enter the programming mode for a new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all automobiles. You should check your owner's guide to see what it can do for your vehicle.
The key programming process is not complicated however, it requires patience and focus on detail. To program your car successfully with a brand new key program, you must follow a specific method. The steps needed to accomplish this are in your car's manual or by searching online for "onboard programming step X vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs secured while you program them, since the inability to wait too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and leave the programming mode.
2. You can unlock all of the doors at the same time
You can use a programmable key to unlock the doors of your vehicle quickly if you're a rush and don't have time to wait for friends or family members to arrive. This is an excellent feature to have for people who are often late for appointments or who have difficulties finding their vehicles in crowded parking areas. This is a great idea for those who have elderly or young children who require assistance in getting into their vehicle.
In contrast to traditional mechanical keys which have cut and grooves that fit into the lock cylinder of your vehicle's door locks and ignition, a programmable key has a computer chip inside that is connected to your car's computer systems. The chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer, or auto manufacturer, based on the model and brand of your car. It is generally more complex than making duplicates of the traditional key. It takes longer and will cost you more. There are ways to save on this service.
Local locksmiths can program programmable keys for less than the dealership and can often do it faster. You'll need two working keys to the locksmith to link your new key to your car's computer. In addition, many contemporary automobiles have sophisticated anti-theft transponders, which must be specifically programmed for your vehicle by a professional locksmith or dealer.
The process of reprogramming a car key isn't exactly straightforward but there are a few tricks you can try at home. However, it is recommended to refer to the owner's manual, or search the Internet for the exact steps for your car's brand and model. Certain manufacturers use proprietary technology that blocks you from being in a position to reprogram your key. This is why you must visit a locksmith or dealer that has the expertise to help you. You could damage the electronic system in your car in the event that you attempt to program your own key. This can be extremely costly to repair, so it's wise not to take the risk.
3. You can lock your car from an extended distance
Car thieves target drivers as they try to unlock their vehicles. They are aware that it takes just a few seconds to remove your keys from your pocket or purse and then put them in the ignition. So they wait for you at times when you're the most vulnerable. You can stop this from happening by having an electronic key that locks your car remotely. This feature is especially useful for those who live in an urban location or do not want to risk losing their keys.
You can only use this feature only if your vehicle is compatible with it. Check with your auto locksmith or manufacturer to see if your vehicle is compatible. To remotely unlock your car you will require an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later and you must be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
It is crucial to keep an extra in case you lose your programmed key. In the event of a loss, you might need to get a new transponder chip. It's costly, so it's best to have an additional key. You can also get your key reprogrammed, which can be done by an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your own car keys can be dangerous. It is recommended to get it done by a professional, so that others cannot reprogram your key and take your car.
There are many car owners who attempt to program their own car keys that are programmable by following the online instructions. It's not difficult to master the process if you're familiar with it, but it's difficult to learn on your own and may be a bit confusing if you are not familiar with the procedure. This method is not only dangerous, but it might not work in certain situations. It is possible that the reprogramming process will wipe out your other keys, causing them to cease functioning. You can prevent this from happening by ensuring that you have two functioning keys at hand prior to starting. Also, ensure that car key programer isn't running while you attempt to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of having a programmed key is that it can unlock your doors faster. Traditionally, you had remove the key from your pocket or purse and place it in the ignition, turn it, and then unlock each door manually. A programmable key allows you to open your car door by simply pressing a button on the key fob. This is quicker and safer. It's not necessary to leave your family or friends outside your car while you hunt for your keys.
If you have a programmed car key, it is possible to replace it in the event of a broken or lost one. In most cases, you can order an alternate key and have it reprogrammed at the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will work with your vehicle and work as intended. This is a simpler process than replacing the key head and will save you money.
For some vehicles, a specially-designed programer is required to reprogram the new key. These sophisticated devices are costly and are usually only accessible to professional locksmiths. These devices are expensive and require a lot of knowledge to use. Some locksmiths use a technique known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder's code.
No matter what kind of key you have though, it is always a good idea to keep an extra in the case. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They can be difficult to replace. Also, you don't know how easy it would be for a thief to gain entry into your vehicle and steal it.
You can get rid of these issues by purchasing a spare programmed key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can create a programmable car key at a reasonable price. This is a cheaper and less stressful option than having to purchase a new vehicle after losing your original keys.