11 Ways To Totally Block Your Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is an excellent option to prevent being locked out in the future. However, it can be a bit pricey dependent on the car you own.
Luckily, there are tools available to help shops and DIY customers program replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from a distance
You will require a programmed key to start your vehicle. The key must be equipped with an embedded microchip that can be read by the receiver inside the ignition. When the key is inserted, it sends out a signal to the receiver that is in line with the code on the chip. If the signal is in line, the car will begin. This type of technology is more secure than previous methods of locking your car since the code is constantly changing and cannot be guessed by thieves.
It used to be possible to hot-wire a car and drive away, but since the introduction of programmable keys it's now impossible. A lot of these cars come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting when the key isn't within range. The most recent keys are capable of warming up your car from a distance which makes it easier to get on the road during cold weather.
With the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own new key and start your car from a distance. This kit allows you to bypass the anti-theft system of your car and allow you to enter the programming mode of a new set of keys for your vehicle. It is important to note that this kit will not work on all cars, and you should consult your owner's manual to determine whether it is compatible with your particular model of vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not difficult, but it requires a lot of patience and attention to details. To successfully program your car with a new system, you need to follow a specific method. The steps needed to accomplish this are in the car's manual or online by searching for "onboard programming step X vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs secured while you are trying 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 unlock the doors at the same time.
If you're in a hurry and don't want to be waiting for your family or friends to arrive, you can use a car key that is programmed to unlock all of the doors at once. This is a fantastic feature for those who are often late for appointments or who have difficulties finding their vehicles 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 that has grooves and cuts that can be inserted into the ignition of your car or door locks. It also comes with a computer chip that is connected to the car's computers. This chip can be programmed by a locksmith or auto manufacturer depending on the car's model and make. It is generally more complicated than creating an exact duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and will cost you more. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the cost of this service.
programming car key in your neighborhood can program your programmable keys for much less than the dealership or an auto parts store, and generally can do it quicker as well. You'll need two functioning keys to the locksmith to link your new key to the computer in your car. Many modern cars also have advanced anti-theft systems that must be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
There are some tricks you can use at home to re-program the car key. It is best to consult the owner's manual of your particular model of car or look up online for the steps. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technology that stops you from being able to reprogram your key. This is why it is important to visit an experienced locksmith or dealer for assistance with this. You could damage the electronic system of your car if you try to program your key on your own. It's costly to fix, so it's best to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from an extended distance
Car thieves target drivers when they try to unlock their vehicles. They know it takes you just a few seconds to remove the keys out of your pocket or purse and then place them in the ignition. So they wait for you to be vulnerable. You can stop this from happening by having a programmable key that locks your car remotely. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who live in a busy location or do not want to risk losing their keys.
This feature is only available if your car is compatible. To confirm that your vehicle 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 you must be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
If you lose your programmable car key It is crucial to have a spare. In the event of a loss, you might need to purchase a new transponder chip. It can be costly so it's recommended to have an additional key. You can also get your key reprogrammed, which can be done by a dealer or an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your own car keys could be risky. It is safer to do it professionally so that nobody else is able to reprogram your key and steal your car.
There are a lot of car owners who attempt to program their own keys that can be programmed by following online instructions. It's not difficult when you are familiar with the procedure however it is difficult to master on your own and can be somewhat confusing if you aren't experienced with the procedure. This method is not only dangerous, but it might be ineffective in certain instances. In reality, it's possible that the reprogramming of keys will erase your other keys, causing them to stop working. This can be avoided by having two working keys ready prior to beginning. Make sure that your car is off when you try to program your third keys.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of a programmed key is that you can unlock doors more quickly. Traditionally when you want to unlock a door you'd need to remove your key from your pocket, purse, or wallet, place it in the ignition, and turn it. With a programmable car keys instead, you can simply press a button on your key fob to open the door, which is much more convenient and more secure. You don't need to leave your family or friends in the car while you look for your keys.
If you have a programmed car key, it's also easier to replace it in the event of a lost or broken one. In many instances, you can request a replacement and have it reprogrammed by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be 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 will typically cost you less money.
For certain vehicles, a specially-designed programer is required to reprogramme the new key. These sophisticated devices are costly and typically only available to professional locksmiths. They also require a great deal of experience in using them. Some locksmiths employ a method called "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder's code.
Regardless of what type of key you own, however, it's recommended to keep an extra key in your pocket. Keys for cars lost are common, and can be quite a hassle to replace. Plus, you never know how easy it would be for a thief to gain entry into your vehicle and steal it.
Fortunately, you can avoid all these problems by having a spare programmable car key prepared in advance. Pop-A-Lock can create an programmable car key for an affordable cost. It's much cheaper and less stressful than buying a new car if you lose your keys.