Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming car keys is a great method to avoid being locked out of your car in the future. However, it can be a bit pricey depending on the vehicle you own.
Sanabria says there are tools that can assist shops, and even DIY customers, to program keys for replacement and restore information from immobilizers.
1. You can start your car from a distance
In order to start your vehicle, you'll need keys that are programmed to work with it. The key should have a microchip that can be read by the receiver in the ignition. When the key is put into the ignition, it transmits a code-matching signal to the receiver. If the signal matches, the car will begin. This kind of technology is more secure than other methods of locking your vehicle because the code is always changing and cannot be guessed by thieves.
It used to be possible to connect a car's hot-wire and then drive away, but since the advent of programmable keys, this has become impossible. Many of these cars also come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting in the event that the key isn't within range. The newest keys are even capable of warming 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 for you to program your new key and start your car from afar. This kit allows you to bypass your car's anti-theft system and enter the programming mode of a new set of keys for your vehicle. It is important to know that this kit will not work with all vehicles and you must consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to find out whether it is compatible with your particular model of vehicle.
The key programming procedure is not difficult, but it requires a lot of patience and attention to the smallest of details. To program your car successfully with a brand new key, you must follow a specific method. You can find the steps in your vehicle'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 the doors at the same time.
You can use a programmable key to unlock the doors of your vehicle quickly if you're hurry and don't have time wait for family or friends. This is a useful feature for those who are always late for appointments or have trouble to find their car in busy parking spaces. It is also a good idea for people who have children and elderly family members who require assistance getting in the car.
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, with grooves and cut-outs that fit into the lock cylinder of your car's door locks and ignition, a programmable key has an embedded computer chip that is linked to the car's computer systems. This chip can be programmed by either a locksmith or auto manufacturer depending on the car's model and make. This process is usually more complicated than making an exact copy of a traditional car key. It takes longer and is more expensive. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on this service.
A reliable locksmith in your neighborhood can program your programmable key for much less than the dealership or an auto parts store, and generally can do it quicker as well. But, you'll need to have two working keys to allow the locksmith to link your new key to the computer system of your car. Modern cars are also equipped with advanced anti-theft systems that must be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
There are some tricks you can use at home to re-program a car key. However, it is recommended to read the owner's manual or search on the Internet to find the exact steps for your car's model and brand. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technology that prevents you from reprogramming your own key, which is why it is important to consult a knowledgeable locksmith or dealer to assist with this. You could damage the electronic system of your car if you try to program your own key. This can be extremely costly to repair, so it's recommended not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your car from the distance
Car thieves target drivers when they try to open their vehicles. They know that it takes only a few seconds for you to grab your keys out of your purse or pocket and to put them in the ignition, and they're waiting for you at the time that you are at your most vulnerable. You can stop this from happening by having the use of a key that can be programmed to lock your car remotely. This feature is especially useful for those who live in a crowded area or who do not want to risk losing their keys.
This feature is only available if the car is compatible. Check with automotive key programming or the manufacturer to confirm whether your car is compatible. To remotely unlock your car you will require 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 essential to have an extra in case you lose your programmable key. Otherwise, you may need to get a new transponder chip. It can be costly and it's advisable to have an extra key. You can also have the key reset by an auto locksmith or a dealer. However the process of reprogramming a car's key yourself can be risky. It is recommended to hire a professional to do it so that others cannot reprogram your keys and possibly steal your vehicle.
Many car owners try to program their programmable keys on their own by following online instructions. It's quite simple to master the process if you're familiar with it however, it can be difficult to master on your own and can be a bit confusing if are not familiar with the procedure. 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 cease to function. This is avoided by having two working keys prepared prior to starting. You should also ensure that your car isn't running when you try to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a car key is that it will assist you in unlocking your door quicker. Traditionally when you want to unlock a door you would have to remove your key from your pocket, purse, or wallet, place it in the ignition, and turn it. A programmable key allows you to open your car door by simply pressing the button on the key fob. This is quicker and more secure. It also means that you don't have to leave your family or friends waiting in your car while you look for your keys.
It is simpler to replace a key that is programmable in the event that you break or lose one. In many cases you can just purchase an alternative key and have it changed by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and will work exactly as you intended. This is a much simpler process than replacing the key head and will save you money.
For some vehicles, a special programer is required to reprogramme the key. These advanced devices are expensive and are typically only available to professional 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's code.
It is a good idea, regardless of the type of key to always have a spare on to hand. Keys for cars lost are common, and they can be quite a pain in the neck to replace. Also, you don't know how easy a burglar can be to rob your car.
You can avoid these issues by ordering a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-Alock can create you an programmable car key for a reasonable price. This is a less expensive and less stressful option than purchasing an entirely new car after losing your original keys.