A Productive Rant About Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a fantastic option to prevent being locked out in the future. However, it could be a bit pricey depending on the vehicle you own.
Sanabria says that there are tools to help shops, or even DIY customers, program replacement keys and restore information from immobilizers.
1. You can start your car from a distance
In order to start your vehicle, you'll need an ignition key that has been programmed to work with it. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip that is capable of being read by a receiver inside the ignition. When the key is put into the ignition, it transmits an encoding signal to the receiver. If the signal matches then the car will start. This kind of technology is more secure than previous methods of locking your vehicle since the code changes constantly and is unable to be detected by thieves.
With the advent of programmable key, it's impossible to hot-wire your car and drive off. In addition that many of these cars now have proximity sensors that stop the car from starting if not within the reach of the key. The most recent keys can make your car warm by remote, making it much easier for you to get on the road during cold 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 allows you to bypass the anti-theft system in your vehicle and go into mode of programming for a new key for your car. It is important to remember that this kit does not work with all vehicles and you must consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine what it can do for your particular model of vehicle.
The procedure for programming keys isn't difficult, but it requires a lot patience and attention to the smallest of details. It is imperative to follow a strict procedure to successfully program your car using the new key. The steps needed to accomplish this can be found in your car's manual or online by searching for "onboard programming step X vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs locked when you attempt to program them, as waiting too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and leave the programming mode.
2. You can open all of the doors simultaneously.
If you're in an urgent situation and don't want to be waiting for your friends or family to arrive, you can use a programmable car key to open all doors at once. This is a fantastic feature for those who are often late for appointments or are having trouble finding their cars in crowded parking lots. This is a great idea for those with elderly or children who require assistance getting into their car.
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys with grooves and cut-outs that fit into the lock cylinder of your car's ignition and door locks A programmable key comes with an embedded computer chip that is connected to your car's computer systems. The chip can be programmed by either an auto manufacturer or locksmith, depending on your vehicle's model and make. This process is usually more complex than creating copies of the traditional car key. It takes longer and costs you more. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your programmable keys for less than the dealership and often faster. You'll need two functioning keys for the locksmith in order to link your new key to the car's computer. In addition, many modern cars come with advanced anti-theft transponders that need to be programmed specifically for your car by a trained locksmith or dealer.
The process of reprogramming your car key isn't exactly straightforward but there are a few tricks you can try at home. It is best to consult the owner's manual for your particular model of car or look up online for the steps. Some manufacturers have proprietary technology that stops you from reprograming your key. This is why it is so important to visit an experienced locksmith or dealer for assistance with this. You could damage the car's electronic system in the event that you attempt to program your key yourself. It can be expensive to repair and therefore it is recommended to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance
Car thieves often target drivers while they are trying to gain entry into their vehicles. They know it takes you a few seconds to take your keys from your purse or pocket and put them into the ignition. Therefore, they are waiting for you to be vulnerable. You can prevent this with an electronic key that locks your car remotely. This feature is especially beneficial for those who live in a dense area or are worried that their keys could be lost.
You can only use this feature only if your vehicle is compatible with it. You can check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to see whether your vehicle is compatible. 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 essential to have an extra in case you lose your programable key. Otherwise, you may need to purchase a replacement transponder chip. This can be expensive, so it is best to keep a spare key in your possession. You can also get the key reprogrammed by an auto locksmith or dealer. Reprogramming your car key can be dangerous. It is recommended to hire a professional to do it so that others cannot reprogram your keys and then steal your car.
There are many car owners who attempt to program their own programmable car keys by following online instructions. It's easy to do if you already know the procedure. However it can be difficult and confusing to learn by yourself. This method isn't only dangerous, but it might also not work in some situations. It's possible that key reprogramming can erase all your other keys, making them stop working. You can avoid this by ensuring you have two working keys on hand before beginning. Also, ensure that your car isn't running while you are trying to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The most obvious benefit of a programmable car key is that it can assist you in unlocking your door faster. Traditionally when you want to unlock a door you would have to remove your key from your pocket, purse or wallet, then put it in the ignition, and turn it. A programmable key enables you to open your car's doors by simply pressing an icon on the key fob. This is faster and more secure. It also means that you don't have to keep your family members or friends in your car while you hunt for your keys.
It is much easier to replace a key that is programmable in the event you have to replace or break one. In many instances, you can simply order a replacement key and have it reset by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key will work with your vehicle and will function as you intended. This is a simpler process than replacing the key head and can save you money.
Certain vehicles may require a specialized programmer to reprogramme the key. These devices are costly and they are usually only available to locksmiths. They are costly and require a great deal of expertise to operate. Some locksmiths use a technique known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder code.
Whatever type of key you have, regardless of the type, it's an excellent idea to have a spare handy. Lost car keys are frequent, and they can be quite a headache to replace. Also, you don't realize how easy it could be for a thief to gain entry into your vehicle and take it away.
Fortunately, you can avoid any of these issues by getting an extra car key that can be programmed made in advance. This can be done at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for an affordable price. This is a less expensive and less stressful option than buying a new vehicle after losing your original keys.