Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming car keys is a great option to prevent getting locked out of your car in the future. It could be costly depending on the vehicle you own.
Luckily, there are tools available to help shops and DIY customers program replacement keys and restore immobilizer data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from some distance
You need a programmed key to start your vehicle. The key must be equipped with an embedded microchip that can be read by the receiver in the ignition. Then, when the key is put in, it sends out a signal to the receiver that is a match to the code inside the chip. If the signal is in line with the chip, the car will begin. This kind of technology is more secure than other methods of locking your vehicle because the code changes constantly and cannot be guessed by thieves.
With the advent of a programmable key, it is now impossible to wire your car and drive away. A lot of these cars have proximity sensors which prevent the car from being started in the event that the key isn't within reach. The latest keys can even warm up your car by remote, making it much easier for you to travel in cold weather.
Utilizing the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your new key and start your car from a distance. This kit will allow you to bypass the anti-theft feature in your car and enter the programming mode for a brand new key for your vehicle. It is important to remember that this kit will not work on all cars, and you should consult the owner's manual of your vehicle to find out what it can do for your particular model of vehicle.
The process of programming your key isn't difficult however it requires patience and concentration on the details. You must follow a strict procedure to successfully program your car with a new key. reprogram car key for doing this are in the manual of your car or on the internet for "onboard programming step X of your vehicle." Make sure to keep the ignition and key fobs locked while you program them, as waiting too long between steps could cause the car to reset its commands and exit the programming mode.
2. You can also unlock the doors at the same time.
You can use a key that is programmable to unlock the doors of your vehicle immediately if you're in an errand and don't have the time to wait for family or friends. car key programming is a great option for those who often miss appointments or are having trouble finding their cars in crowded parking lots. It's also a good idea for those with children or elderly family members who need help getting in the car.
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, which have cut and grooves that fit into the lock cylinder of your vehicle's door locks and ignition, a programmable key has an embedded computer chip that is linked to the car's computer systems. The chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer or auto manufacturer depending on the model and make of your vehicle. In general, this procedure is more complicated than making an exact duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and will cost you more. There are ways to cut costs on this service.
A reputable local locksmith can program your programmable key for much less than the dealership or an auto parts store, and generally can do it quicker too. You'll need two functioning keys for the locksmith to link your new key with the computer in your car. Additionally, many modern cars have advanced anti-theft transponders that must be programmed specifically for your car by a professional locksmith or dealer.
There are some tricks you can use at home to re-program your 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 that prevents you from being able to change the programming of your key. This is why you should visit a locksmith or dealer who is experienced to get help. You could harm the car's electronic system if you try to program your key yourself. It can be expensive to fix and therefore it is recommended to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your car from an extended distance
Car thieves target drivers as they try to unlock their vehicles. They are aware that it takes just a few seconds to remove your keys from your pocket or purse and then put them in the ignition. They'll be waiting for you to be vulnerable. You can stop this from happening by having an electronic key that locks your car remotely. This feature is especially useful for those who live in an urban location or don't want to risk losing their keys.
You can only use this feature if your vehicle is compatible with it. To make sure your car is compatible, consult the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. To unlock your car remotely, you must have 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 one spare in case you lose your programmed key. You might need to replace the transponder chip in case you don't. It's expensive and it's advisable to have an additional key. You can also get the key reset by an auto locksmith or a dealer. Reprogramming your own car keys could be risky. It is recommended to have a professional do it so that others aren't able to reprogram your key and possibly steal your vehicle.
There are a lot of motorists who try to program their own car keys that are programmable by following online instructions. It's simple once you know the process. However, it can be confusing and difficult to learn by yourself. Furthermore, this method can be dangerous and may not work properly in some cases. It's possible that reprogramming your keys can erase all your other keys, which could cause them to cease to function. You can avoid this by making sure that you have two functioning keys on hand before beginning. You should also ensure that your car is not running while you attempt to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The main benefit of a programmable key is that you can unlock your doors faster. Traditionally, to unlock a door, you'd have to take your key from your pocket, purse or wallet, then put it in the ignition and turn it. A key that is programmable allows you to open your car door by simply pressing an icon on the key fob. This is quicker and more secure. It also means you don't have to keep your friends or family waiting outside your car while you search for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it's also easier to replace it in the case of a damaged or lost one. In most cases, you can order an alternate key and have it reprogrammed at a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and functions as intended. This is much easier than replacing the head of the key and will save you money.
Certain vehicles will require a specialist programmer to reprogramme a new key. These devices are expensive, and they are usually only accessible to locksmiths. They also require extensive experience in using them. Some locksmiths even employ a method called "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method of reading the code on the transponder in your vehicle.
Regardless of what type of key you have, though, it is always a good idea to keep an extra in the case. It is not uncommon to lose your keys to your car. They can be a challenge to replace. You never realize how easy it could be for a thief to gain entry into your vehicle and take it away.
Fortunately, you can get rid of all these problems by having a spare car key that is programmable prepared in advance. Pop-Alock can create you an programmable car key for a reasonable price. This will be far cheaper and less stressful than having to buy a new car if you lose your original keys.