Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Car key preprogramming is a great option to ensure that you are not locked out of your car in the future. It could be costly depending on your car.
Sanabria says there are tools that can assist shops, and even DIY customers, program keys for replacement and restore data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your car from some distance
To start your car, you need a key that is programmed to work with it. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip inside it that can be capable of being read by a receiver inside the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, it sends an encoded signal to the receiver. If the signal matches, the car will start. This type of technology is far safer than the traditional methods of locking your vehicle, as the code changes constantly and is unable to be detected by thieves.
With the advent of a programmable key, it's impossible to wire your car and drive away. Additionally, many of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that block the car from starting if it's not within reach of the key. The most recent keys programmed can warm up your car by remote, making it much easier for you to get on the road during cold days.
Using the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own key and start your car from an extended distance. This kit allows you to bypass your car key programming and cutting's anti-theft system and allow you to enter the programming mode of a new key for your car. It is important to know that this kit does not work on all cars and you must consult your owner's manual to find out if it works with your particular model of vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not difficult, but it requires a lot patience and attention to the smallest of details. To program your car successfully using a new model system, you need to follow a specific method. You can locate the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual or on the internet for "onboard program step X vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked when you attempt to program them.
2. You can open all of the doors at once.
When you are in the midst of a rush and don't want to wait for your family or friends, you can use a car key that is programmed to unlock all of the doors at once. This is a useful feature for people who are always late for appointments or have trouble to locate their car in crowded parking lots. It's also a good idea for people who have children or elderly relatives who need help getting into the car.
A car key that can be programmed differs from a conventional mechanical key that has grooves and cuts that fit in your car's ignition or door locks. It also comes with an electronic chip that is linked with the car's computers. The chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer or auto manufacturer based on the model and brand of your car. In general, this procedure is more complex than making a duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and will cost you more. There are ways to save on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your programmable keys at a lower cost than dealerships and are often quicker. You'll need two functioning keys for the locksmith to connect 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.
There are some techniques you can employ at home to reprogram a car key. It is recommended to read the owner's manual for your specific model of car, 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 dealer or locksmith for help in this. You could damage the electronic system in your car if you try to program your own key. It's costly to fix and therefore it is recommended to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from an extended distance
Car thieves usually target drivers as they attempt to unlock their cars. They know that it takes a minute for you to pull your keys from your purse or pocket and to put them in the ignition, so they're waiting for you at the moment that you are at your most vulnerable. Fortunately, you can avoid this by locking your vehicle at a distance using a programmable car key. This feature is especially beneficial for those who live in a dense area or are worried that their keys could be lost.
This feature is only available if the car is compatible. You can consult your auto locksmith or manufacturer to see whether your car is compatible. To remotely unlock your car you need an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later, and you must be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
If you have lost your car key that is programmable it is essential to have a spare. It is possible that you will need to replace the transponder chip if don't. It can be costly so it's recommended to have an extra key. You can also have the key reset by an auto locksmith or dealer. However the process of reprogramming a car's key yourself can be risky. It is best to have a professional perform the task so that others aren't able to reprogram your key and possibly steal your vehicle.
There are many car owners who attempt to program their own programmable car keys by following the online instructions. It's quite simple to master the process if you're familiar with it however, it can be difficult to master by yourself and could be a bit confusing if aren't experienced with it. Furthermore, this method can be risky and might not work properly in some cases. It's possible that key reprogramming can wipe out all of your other keys programmed, causing them to stop working. This is avoided by having two keys working prepared prior to starting. You should also ensure that your vehicle isn't 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 quicker. Traditionally, to unlock a door you would have to remove your key from your pocket, purse or wallet, put it in the ignition and turn it. With a programmable car keys instead, you can just push a button on your key fob to open the door, which is much quicker and more secure. You don't have to leave your family or friends waiting outside your car while you search for your keys.
It is much easier to replace a key that is programmable in the event you lose or break one. In most cases you can simply purchase a replacement key and have it changed by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle, and will function as you intended. This is a much simpler process than replacing the head of the key and will save you money.
Certain vehicles may require a specialist programmer to reprogramme the key. These advanced devices are expensive and typically only available to professional locksmiths. They also require a lot of knowledge about how to use these devices. Some locksmiths use a technique known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder's code.
Regardless of what type of key you have however, it's a good idea to keep an extra key in your pocket. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They aren't easy to replace. Plus, you never know how easy it will be for a thief to get into your car and drive off with it.
Fortunately, you can steer clear of any of these issues by getting an extra car key that can be programmed prepared in advance. Pop-A-Lock can make you a programmable car key at an affordable price. This is a much cheaper and less stressful option than having to purchase new automobiles after you have lost your keys.