17 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Avoid Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a fantastic solution to avoid being locked out in the future. It could be costly depending on the car you drive.
Sanabria says there are tools to help shops, or even DIY customers, programme replacement keys and restore data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your car from some distance
In order to start your vehicle, you'll need keys that are programmed to work with it. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip inside it that can be readable by a receiver in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, it sends a code-matching signal to the receiver. If the signal matches, the car will start. This method is more secure than other methods of locking your car because the code is constantly changing and cannot be guessed.
With the advent of programmable key, it's impossible to hot-wire your car and drive off. A lot of these cars come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from being started if the key is not within reach. The latest keys are capable of warming up your car from a distance making it easier to drive on cold winter days.
Utilizing the EZ installer from Tom's Key Company it is now possible to program your new key and start your car from a distance. This kit allows you to bypass your car's anti-theft system and enter the mode of programming new automotive keys. It is important to know that this kit doesn't work with all vehicles and you should check the owner's manual to determine if it works with your specific model of vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not difficult however it requires patience and focus on detail. It is imperative to follow a strict procedure in order to successfully program your car using a new key. The steps for doing 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 locked while you program them, as waiting too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and exit the programming mode.
2. You can unlock all 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 friends or family members to arrive. This is a great feature to have for people who often miss appointments or who have difficulties finding their vehicles in crowded parking lots. It's also a great idea for those with children or elderly family members who need help getting in the car.
A programmable car key differs from a traditional mechanical key, which has grooves and cuts that fit in your car's ignition or door locks. It also comes with a computer chip connected to the car's computer. The chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer or auto manufacturer, based on the model and brand of your car. This procedure is typically more complex than making copies of the traditional car key. It takes longer and costs you more. There are ways to cut costs on this service.
A reliable locksmith in your neighborhood can program your programmable key at a lower cost than a dealership or an auto parts store, and generally can do it quicker as well. You will need two working keys for the locksmith in order to connect your new key to your car's computer. In addition, many modern automobiles have sophisticated anti-theft transponders that must be specifically programmed for your vehicle by a professional locksmith or dealer.
The process of reprogramming your car key isn't exactly straightforward but there are a few techniques you can try at home. However, it is recommended to read the owner's manual or search the Internet for the exact steps for your car's brand and model. Some manufacturers use proprietary technology which prevents you from being able to reprogramme your key. This is why you must visit a locksmith or dealer that is experienced to get help. In the event that you attempt to program your personal key can cause damage to the car's electronic components. This can be very expensive to repair, so it's best not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your car from a distance
Car thieves are often targeting drivers while they are trying to unlock their cars. They are aware that it takes only a few seconds to take your keys from your purse or pocket to put them in the ignition, so they're waiting for you at the exact moment when you're most vulnerable. You can avoid this from happening by locking your car from a distance by using the ability to program your car keys. This feature is particularly useful for those who live in a crowded area or don't want their keys to be lost.
This feature is only available if your car is compatible. You can consult your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to confirm whether your car is compatible. To unlock your car remotely, you must have 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 a spare if you lose your programmed key. In the event of a loss, you might need to purchase a replacement transponder chip. This can be costly so it's best to keep a spare key in your possession. You can also get your key reprogrammed, which can be done by an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your car key can be dangerous. It is best to get a professional do the job so that other people aren't able to reprogram your key and steal your vehicle.
Many car owners try to program their programmable keys on their own by following the online instructions. It's simple if you already know the process. However, it can be confusing and difficult to learn on your own. Furthermore, this method can be risky and might not work in certain cases. It is possible that the reprogramming process will wipe out the other keys and cause them to cease functioning. This is prevented by having two keys that work ready prior to beginning. Make sure automotive key programming is turned off before you try to program your third keys.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a programmable car key is that it will help you unlock your door faster. Traditionally to unlock a door you'd need to remove your key from your pocket, purse or wallet, put it in the ignition, and turn it. A programmable key enables you to unlock your car's door by simply pressing the button on the key fob. This is faster and more secure. It's not necessary to leave your family or friends outside your car while you hunt for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it is also easier to replace it in the event of a lost or broken one. In most cases you can simply purchase an alternative key and have it reprogrammed by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and works exactly as you intended. This is a much simpler process than attempting to replace the head of the key, and will typically save you some 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 locksmiths who are professionals. These devices are expensive and require a great deal of expertise to operate. Some locksmiths will even use a method called "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated way to read the code on your vehicle's transponder.
Regardless of what type of key you own, though, it is always recommended to keep an extra in the case. Keys for cars lost are common, and can be an absolute pain in the neck to replace. Also, you don't know how easy it is for a criminal can be to rob your car.
You can avoid these issues by purchasing a spare programmed key in advance. Pop-Alock can create you a programmable car key at a reasonable price. This is much less expensive and less stressful than having to buy an entirely new car when you lose your original keys.