Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is an excellent solution to avoid being locked out in the future. It can be expensive depending on the car you drive.
Luckily, there are tools to assist shops and DIY customers create replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from some distance
You require a key that is programmed to start your vehicle. The key must have an embedded microchip that can be read by the receiver in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, it sends an encoding signal to the receiver. If the signal is in line, the car will begin. This type of technology is far more secure than other methods of locking your car since the code changes constantly and is unable to be detected by thieves.
It was once possible to hot-wire a car and drive away, but since the introduction of programmable keys this is now impossible. In addition, many of these vehicles are now equipped with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting if not within the proximity to the key. The latest keys are capable of warming up your car from some distance, making it easier to drive on cold days.
Using 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 will allow you to bypass the anti-theft feature in your vehicle and go into programming mode for a new key for your vehicle. This kit is not compatible with all vehicles. You should consult the owner's manual to determine what it can do for your car.
The process of programming keys isn't difficult, but it requires a lot of patience and attention to details. You must follow a strict procedure to successfully program your car with the new key. The steps for doing this can be found in the car's manual or by searching online for "onboard programming step X vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs locked while you are trying to program them, since waiting too long between steps could cause the car to reset its commands and leave the programming mode.
2. You can open all of the doors at the same time
If you're in a hurry and don't want to be waiting for your family or friends to arrive, you can use a car key that is programmed to open all doors simultaneously. This is an excellent feature for people who are always late for appointments or are unable to locate their car in crowded parking lots. It is also a good idea for families with children or elderly family members who need assistance in getting into their 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 has an electronic chip that is connected to the car's computers. This chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer or auto manufacturer based on the model and brand of your vehicle. This procedure is typically more complex than making an exact copy of a traditional car key. It takes longer and will cost you more. There are, however, ways to reduce the cost of this service.
Local locksmiths can program programmable keys at a lower cost than dealerships and can often do it quicker. You will need two working keys for the locksmith in order to connect your new key with the car's computer. Modern cars are also equipped with advanced anti-theft transmitters that must be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
There are some tricks you can use at home to re-program the car key. However, it's best to read the owner's manual, or search the Internet to find the exact steps for your car's model and brand. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technology that prevents you from being able to reprogram your own key, which is why it's important to visit an experienced dealer or locksmith for help in this. Attempting to program your own key could damage the car's electronics. This can be very expensive to repair, so it is wise not to take the risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance
Car thieves are often targeting drivers while they are trying to open their cars. They are aware that it takes only a few seconds for you to grab your keys from your purse or pocket and to put them in the ignition, so they're waiting for you at the exact moment when you are most vulnerable. Luckily, you can prevent this by locking your vehicle from a distance by using the ability to program your car keys. This feature is especially useful for those who live in a crowded area or do not want their keys to be lost.
This feature is only available if your vehicle is compatible. Check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to confirm if 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.
If you lose your programmable car key it is essential to have a spare. You might need to replace the transponder chip if don't. This can be expensive so it's best to have an extra key on hand. You can also have the key changed by an auto locksmith or dealer. Reprogramming your own car key could be risky. It is safer to have it done professionally to ensure that no one else can reprogram your car key and steal your car.
Many car owners attempt to program their programmable keys themselves by following the online instructions. It's simple once you know the procedure. However, it can be confusing and difficult to learn on your own. reprogram car key isn't just dangerous, but it may also not work in some situations. In reality, it's possible that the reprogramming process will erase your other keys, causing them to cease functioning. You can avoid this by ensuring you have two working keys in your possession prior to starting. Make sure that your car is off when you attempt to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a programmed key is that you can unlock doors more quickly. Traditionally, to unlock a door you'd have to take your key from your purse, pocket or wallet, put it in the ignition, and turn it. With a programmable car keys, however, you can just push a button on the fob of your key to open the door, which is much quicker and safer. You don't need to leave your family or friends outside your car while you hunt for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it's also easier to replace it in the case of a broken or lost one. In most cases, you can simply order a replacement key and have it reset by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and functions as intended. This is a much easier process than trying to replace the head of the key, and can save you some money.
Certain vehicles may require a special programmer to reprogramme the key. These devices are costly, and they are usually only available to locksmiths. They also require a great deal of knowledge about how to use them. Some locksmiths may even employ a method called "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method of reading the code on your vehicle's transponder.
Whatever type of key you have however, it's a good idea to keep an extra key in your pocket. Lost car keys are very frequent, and they can be a real headache to replace. Also, you don't know how easy a burglar is to rob your car.
You can avoid these problems by purchasing a spare programmable key in advance. You can get this done at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for a reasonable price. This is a less expensive and less stressful alternative than purchasing an entirely new car after you have lost your keys.