A Productive Rant About Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car key is a great way to prevent getting locked out of your car in the future. It could be costly depending on the car you drive.
Luckily, there are tools available to help shops and DIY customers create replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your car from some distance
You require a key that is programmed to turn on your vehicle. The key should have a microchip that can be read by the receiver in the ignition. When the key is put in, it emits a signal to the receiver that matches the code in the chip. If the signal matches, then the car will start. This type of technology is more secure than other methods of locking your vehicle since the code is always changing and is unable to be detected by thieves.
It was once possible to wire a car and then drive away, but with the introduction of programmable keys, this is now impossible. A majority of these vehicles have proximity sensors which prevent the car from being started in the event that the key isn't within range. The latest keys can make your car warm remotely, making it easier for you to travel on cold winter 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 a distance. This kit allows you to bypass the anti-theft system of your car and enter the mode of programming new automotive keys. This kit is not compatible with all automobiles. It is recommended to check the owner's manual to see if it will work with your vehicle.
The process of programming your key is not complicated however it requires patience and attention to detail. You must follow a specific procedure in order to successfully program your car with the new key. You can learn the steps in your car's owner's manual or online for "onboard program step X vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked as you try to program them.
2. You can open all of the doors at once.
You can use a programmable key to unlock the doors of your car at once if you're in hurry and don't have time wait for family or friends. This is a great option for those who are always late to appointments or find it difficult to find their car in the crowded parking lots. It is also a good idea for those with children and elderly family members who need help getting in the car.
A car key that is programmable is different from a traditional mechanical key that has grooves and cuts that fit in your car's ignition or door locks. It also contains an electronic chip that is connected to the car's computers. The chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer or auto manufacturer based on the make and model of your vehicle. Typically, this process is more complicated than making a duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and will cost you more. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the cost of this service.
A reputable local locksmith can program your programmable key at a lower cost than a dealership or an auto parts store, and they can usually do it faster too. You will need two working keys for the locksmith in order to link your new key with the car's computer. Many modern cars also have sophisticated anti-theft devices that need to be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
The process of reprogramming a car key isn't exactly straightforward however there are some methods you can attempt at home. However, it's best to refer to the owner's manual or search the Internet for the exact steps for your car's model and brand. Some manufacturers have proprietary technology that stops you from reprogramming your own key, which is why it is so important to consult a knowledgeable dealer or locksmith for help with this. Attempting to program your own key could damage the car's electronic systems. It's costly to repair so it's recommended to stay clear of this risk.
3. You can lock your car from the distance
Car thieves target drivers as they try to open their vehicles. They are aware that it takes just a few seconds to remove your keys from your pocket or purse and put them into the ignition. So they wait for you when you're most vulnerable. You can avoid this by using a programmable key that locks your car remotely. This feature is particularly useful for people who live in a busy location or are afraid of losing their keys.
This feature is only available if your vehicle is compatible. To make sure your mobile car key programmer is compatible, you can check with the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. To unlock your car remotely you will require an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later and be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
If you lose your programmable car key, it is important to have an extra. Otherwise, you may need to purchase a replacement transponder chip. It can be costly so it's recommended to have an additional key. You can also have your key reprogrammed. This can be done by an auto locksmith. However, reprogramming a car key yourself is risky. It is best to have it done professionally to ensure that no one else can reprogram your car key and steal your car.
Many car owners try to program their programmable keys on their own by following online instructions. It's not difficult once you know the procedure. However it can be complicated and difficult to master by yourself. This method is not only dangerous, but it might be ineffective in certain instances. It is possible that key reprogramming can erase all your other keys, causing them to stop working. This is avoided by having two keys that work prepared prior to starting. You should also make sure that your vehicle isn't running while you attempt to program your third key fob programing near me.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of a programmable key is that you can unlock your doors quicker. In the past, you had to take the key out of your purse or pocket and then put it in the ignition, turn it on, and then manually unlock each door. With a car key that is programmable it is possible to simply press a button on the key fob key programmer to unlock the door, which is much quicker and safer. It also means you don't need to leave your family or friends waiting in your car while you search for your keys.
If you own a programmable car key, it's possible to replace it in the event of a damaged or lost one. In most cases you can simply purchase an alternative key and have it changed by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and will work in the way you want it to. This is a far easier process than replacing the head of the key, and it will usually cost you less money.
For certain vehicles, a specially-designed programer is required to reprogram the key. These sophisticated devices are costly and typically only available to professional locksmiths. They also require extensive expertise in the use of these devices. Some locksmiths will even use the method known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated way to read the code on the transponder in your vehicle.
It is a good idea regardless of the type of key to always have a spare key on the side. Keys for cars lost are common, and can be a real pain in the neck to replace. Also, you don't know how easy a thief will find it to steal your car.
You can avoid these problems by ordering a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can make you an programmable car key for a reasonable price. It's much cheaper and less stressful than having to buy a new car after you lose your keys.