How To Outsmart Your Boss On Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a great option to prevent being locked out in the future. However, it can be quite costly dependent on the car you own.
There are programming car keys to assist shops and DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from a distance
To start your vehicle, you'll need a key that is programmed to work with it. This means that the key needs to have a particular microchip that is capable of being read by a 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 matches, the car will start. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car, as the code changes constantly and cannot be guessed.
With the advent of a programmable key, it's impossible to wire your car and drive away. Additionally the majority of these vehicles now have proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting if it is not within the reach of the key. The most recent keys are capable of warming up your car from a distance making it easier to drive on cold winter days.
Using 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 lets you bypass the anti-theft system of your car and enter the programming mode of a new automotive keys. It is important to know that this kit does not work on all cars, and you should consult the owner's manual to find out if it works with your specific model of vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not difficult, however it requires patience and attention to details. You must follow a strict procedure in order to successfully program your car using the new key. The steps needed to accomplish this are in your car's manual or on the internet for "onboard programming step X for vehicle." Make sure to keep the ignition and key fobs secured when you attempt to program them, since the inability to wait too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and exit the programming mode.
2. You can open 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 for those who are always late for appointments or are unable to find their car in the crowded parking spaces. It's also a great idea for families with children and elderly family members who require assistance getting in the car.
A car key that can be programmed is different from a traditional mechanical key, which has grooves and cuts that fit in your car's ignition or door locks. It also has a computer chip that is connected to the car's computer. The chip can be programmed by either a locksmith or auto manufacturer based on your vehicle's make and model. This procedure is typically more complicated than making copies of the traditional car key. It takes longer and is more expensive. There are, however, ways to reduce the cost of this service.
A trusted locksmith in your area can program your programmable keys at a lower cost than a dealership or an auto parts store, and they typically can do it faster too. 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 have advanced anti-theft transponders that need to be specifically programmed for your car by a professional locksmith or dealer.
There are some tricks you can use at home to re-program a car key. It is recommended to read the owner's manual for the particular model of car or look up online for the steps. Certain manufacturers use proprietary technology which prevents you from being able to reprogram your key. This is why you must visit an expert locksmith or dealer who is experienced to get help. Attempting to program your own key could cause damage to the car's electronic components. It's costly to fix, so it's best to stay clear of this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance
Car thieves often target motorists while they try to open their cars. They know that it takes only a few seconds for you to pull your keys out of your purse or pocket to put them in the ignition, and they're waiting for you at the time when you are most vulnerable. You can prevent this with the use of a key that can be programmed to lock your vehicle remotely. This feature is especially useful for people who live in an urban area or who are afraid of losing their keys.
You can only use this feature only if your car is compatible with it. You can check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to see whether your vehicle is compatible. To remotely unlock your car 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.
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 new transponder chip. It's costly and it's advisable to have an extra key. You can also have the key reset by an auto locksmith or a dealer. Reprogramming your own car keys could be risky. It is recommended to hire a professional to do it so that others cannot reprogram your keys and then steal your car.
Many car owners attempt to program their programmable keys themselves by following online instructions. It's simple once you know the procedure. However, it can be difficult and confusing to learn on your own. This method isn't just dangerous, but it might be ineffective in certain cases. In fact, it's possible that the key reprogramming will erase the other keys and cause them to stop working. You can prevent this from happening by ensuring you have two functioning keys in your possession prior to beginning. Make sure your vehicle is turned off before you try to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a programmable car key is that it can assist you in unlocking your door quicker. Traditionally to unlock a door, you'd need to remove your key from your purse, pocket or wallet, then put it in the ignition and turn it. A key that is programmable allows you to unlock your car's door by pressing the button on the key fob. This is faster and safer. It also means that you don't have to keep your family or friends waiting in your car while you hunt for your keys.
If you own a programmable car key, it's also simpler to replace it in the event of a broken or lost one. In most cases, you can order an alternative key and then have it reprogrammed by the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and functions as intended. This is a simpler process than attempting to replace the head of the key and it will usually save you some money.
For some vehicles, a specially-designed programer is required to reprogram the key. These devices are costly and they are usually only available to locksmiths. They are costly and require a lot of experience to use. Some locksmiths employ a method called "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder code.
It is a good idea, regardless of the type of keys, to always have a spare on to hand. Keys for cars lost are common, and can be a real hassle to replace. Plus, you never realize how easy it could be for a thief to get into your car and take it away.
Fortunately, you can steer clear of any of these issues by getting a spare programmable car key made in advance. You can get this done at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for a low cost. This is a less expensive and less stressful alternative than purchasing a new vehicle after you have lost your keys.