Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is an excellent option to prevent being locked out in the future. It could be costly depending on the vehicle you own.
Luckily, there are tools available to help shops and DIY customers create replacement keys and restore immobilizer data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your car from an extended distance
You require a key that is programmed to turn on your vehicle. The key should have a microchip that is read by the receiver inside the ignition. When reprogram car key is inserted into the ignition, it transmits an encoded signal to the receiver. If the signal is in line with the chip, the car will begin. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car as the code changes constantly and cannot be deciphered.
With the advent of programmable keys, it's now impossible to hot-wire your car and drive off. A majority of these vehicles have proximity sensors which prevent the car from starting if the key is not within range. The most recent keys are capable of warming your car from an infinity distance which makes it easier to get on the road on cold days.
Utilizing the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own key and start your vehicle from a distance. This kit allows you to bypass the anti-theft feature in your car and enter the programming mode for a brand new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all cars. You should check your owner's guide to see whether it is compatible with your car.
The key programming process isn't difficult, but it does require a lot of patience and concentration on the details. You must follow a strict procedure in order to successfully program your car with the new key. You can learn the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual, or look online for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked while you attempt to program them.
2. You can unlock all of the doors at once.
If you're in the midst of a rush and do not want to wait for your friends or family, you can use an auto key that can be programmed to unlock all of the doors at the same time. This is an excellent feature for people who always arrive late for appointments or find it difficult to locate their car in crowded parking lots. This is a great idea for those with elderly or children who require assistance in getting into their vehicle.
A programmable car key differs from a conventional mechanical key that has grooves and cuts that can be inserted into your car's ignition or door locks. It also comes with a computer chip connected to the car's computers. The chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer, or auto manufacturer based on the model and make of your vehicle. It is generally more complicated than creating a duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and costs you more. There are, however, ways to save money on this service.
A reliable locksmith in your neighborhood can program your programmable key at a lower cost than a dealership or auto parts store, and they generally can do it quicker too. You'll need two functioning keys to the locksmith to link your new key to the computer in your car. Many modern cars also have advanced anti-theft transmitters that must be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
The process for reprogramming a car key isn't a simple process however there are some techniques you can try at home. However, it's best to read the owner's manual or search on the Internet for the specific steps for your specific car's model and brand. Some manufacturers have proprietary technology that stops you from reprogramming your key. This is why it's important to visit an experienced dealer or locksmith for help in this. You could harm the car's electronic system if you try to program your key on your own. This can be extremely costly to repair, so it is recommended not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from an extended distance
Car thieves target drivers when they try to unlock their vehicles. They are aware that it takes only a few seconds for you to grab your keys from your purse or pocket to put them in the ignition, so they're waiting for you at the exact moment that you are at your most vulnerable. You can prevent this with an electronic key that locks your vehicle remotely. This feature is especially beneficial for those who live in a crowded area or are worried that their keys could be lost.
You can only utilize this feature if your vehicle is compatible with it. Check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to confirm whether your vehicle is compatible. You must have an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to be able to unlock your car remotely.
It is essential to have an extra in case you lose your programmable key. It is possible that you will have to replace the transponder chip if you don't. It's expensive and it's advisable to have an additional key. You can also have your key reprogrammed, which can be done by a dealer or an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your car key could be risky. It is recommended to have a professional do the job so that other people cannot reprogram your keys and possibly steal your vehicle.
Many car owners attempt to program their programmable keys themselves by following online instructions. It's not difficult when you are familiar with the procedure however it is difficult to master by yourself and could be a bit confusing if aren't experienced with the procedure. This method is not only dangerous, but it might not work in certain instances. It's possible that key reprogramming can wipe out all of your other keys, causing them to stop working. You can avoid this by making sure that you have two keys that work at hand prior to beginning. You should also make sure that your car isn't running while you are trying to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a programmable car key is that it will assist you in unlocking your door quicker. Traditionally, 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. With a car key that is programmable, however, you can simply press a button on your key fob to open the door, which is faster and more secure. You don't have to leave your family or friends in the car while you hunt for your keys.
It is easier to replace a programmable lock in the event that you have to replace or break one. In most cases, you can order an alternate key and have it reprogrammed by an locksmith. This will ensure that your new key will be compatible with your vehicle and work as intended. This is much easier than replacing the head of the key and will save you money.
For certain vehicles, a specialized programer is required to reprogramme the new key. These devices are costly, and are generally only available to locksmiths. They also require extensive expertise in the use of these devices. Some locksmiths will even use methods known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method of reading the code of your vehicle's transponder.
No matter what kind of key you have though, it is always a good idea to keep an extra key in your pocket. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They can be a challenge to replace. Plus, you don't know how easy a burglar can be to rob your car.
You can avoid these problems by purchasing a spare programmed key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can create an auto key that is programmable at an affordable price. This is much less expensive and less stressful than having to buy a new car if you lose your keys.