Programmable Car Keys Isn't As Tough As You Think
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is an excellent option to prevent being locked out in the future. It can be expensive depending on your car.
Luckily, there are tools to help shops and DIY customers program replacement keys and restore immobilizer data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from an undetermined distance
To start your car, you require an ignition key that has been programmed to work with it. The key must have a microchip that can be read by the receiver inside the ignition. When the key is put into the ignition, it transmits a code-matching signal to the receiver. If the signal matches with the chip, 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.
It used to be possible to hot-wire a car and then drive away, but thanks to the introduction of programmable keys, it's now impossible. A majority of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from being started when the key isn't within reach. The most recent keys are capable of warming your car from some distance making it easier to drive on cold days.
Utilizing the EZ installer from Tom's Key Company it is now possible for you to program your new key and start your car from a distance. This kit allows you to bypass your car's anti-theft device and allow you to enter the programming mode of a new key for your car. It is important to know that this kit doesn't work with all vehicles and you must consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine if it works with your specific model of vehicle.
The key programming procedure isn't difficult, but it requires patience and a keen eye for details. You must follow a specific procedure in order to successfully program your car using the new key. You will learn the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual, or search online for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked as you try to program them.
2. You can unlock all the doors simultaneously.
You can use a programmable key to unlock the doors of your vehicle at once if you're in an errand and don't have time to wait for family or friends. This is a great feature to have for people who are frequently late for appointments or have trouble finding their cars in crowded parking areas. This is a great idea for those with elderly or children who require assistance in getting into their car.
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, with grooves and cut-outs that fit into the lock cylinders of your car's ignition and door locks, a programmable key has an embedded computer chip that is linked to the car's computer systems. This chip can be programmed by an auto manufacturer or locksmith based on your vehicle's model and make. Typically, this process is more complicated than making duplicates of the traditional key. It is more time-consuming 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 quicker. However, you'll require two functioning keys to allow the locksmith to connect your new key to the car's computer system. Many modern cars also have sophisticated anti-theft devices that need to be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
The process for reprogramming a car key isn't a simple process, and there are some methods you can attempt at home. It is best to consult the owner's manual for your specific car model or look up online for the steps. Some manufacturers have proprietary technology that stops you from being able to reprogram your key. This is why it is so important to consult a knowledgeable locksmith or dealer to assist in this. If you attempt to program your own key could cause damage to the car's electronic systems. This could be costly to repair, so it's best not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from an extended distance
Car thieves usually target motorists while they try to gain entry into their vehicles. They are aware that it takes only a few seconds to take your keys from your purse or pocket to place them in the ignition, so they're waiting for you at the exact moment when you are most vulnerable. You can prevent this with the use of a key that can be programmed to lock your car remotely. This feature is particularly beneficial for people who live in a crowded area or if they don't want to risk losing their keys.
You can only utilize this feature if your vehicle is compatible with it. To ensure that your car is compatible, consult the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. You must possess an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to allow you to unlock your vehicle remotely.
It is important to keep a spare if you lose your programmed key. You may need to replace the transponder chip in case you don't. automotive key programming can be expensive so it's best to have an extra key in the house. You can also have the key reprogrammed by an auto locksmith or a dealer. However doing it yourself is risky. It is best to get a professional perform the task so that others aren't able to reprogram your key and steal your vehicle.
There are a lot of car owners who try to program their own keys that can be programmed by following online instructions. It's easy to do if you already know the process. However, it can be difficult and confusing to learn by yourself. Furthermore, this method can be dangerous and may not work in certain situations. It's possible that key reprogramming can erase all your other keys, which could cause them to cease to function. This is avoided by having two keys working ready before you start. Also, ensure that your car isn't running when you try to program your third key.
4. car key programming can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of having a programmed key is that you can unlock your doors quicker. In the past, you had remove the key from your purse or pocket and then put it in the ignition, turn it, and then manually unlock each door. With a programmable car keys, however, you can simply press the button on your key fob to open the door, which is more convenient and more secure. You don't need to leave your family or friends outside the car while you search for your keys.
It is simpler to replace a programmable lock in the event that you have to replace or break one. In most cases, you can request a replacement and have it reprogrammed at the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and function as you would expect it to. This is much easier than replacing the key head and will save you money.
For certain vehicles, a specially-designed programer is required to reprogram the new key. These devices are costly and they are usually only available to locksmiths. They also require a great deal of knowledge about how to use these devices. Some locksmiths employ a method known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder's code.
It is a good idea regardless of the type of key to always have a spare key on the side. Lost car keys are very frequent, and they can be quite a headache to replace. Plus, you don't know how easy it is for a criminal can be to rob your car.
Fortunately, you can steer clear of all of these issues by having an extra car key that can be programmed prepared in advance. You can do this at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for a low cost. This is a cheaper and less stressful option than purchasing an entirely new car after you have lost your keys.