The 10 Scariest Things About Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a great option to avoid being locked out in the future. However, it could be expensive dependent on the car you own.
There are tools available to help shops and DIY customers create replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your car from an undetermined distance
In order to start your car, you need an ignition key that has been programmed to work with it. This means that the key needs to have a specific microchip inside it that can be capable of being read by a receiver inside the ignition. When the key is put into the ignition, it transmits an encoding signal to the receiver. If the signal matches, the car will start. This kind of technology is much more secure than previous methods of locking your car since the code is constantly changing and is not able to be deciphered by thieves.
With the advent of a programmable key programmer, it is now impossible to hot-wire your car and drive off. In addition, many of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting if not within the range of the key. The latest keys can warm up your car via remote, making it easier to get on the road in cold weather.
With 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 lets you bypass the anti-theft system of your car and allow you to 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 should check the owner's manual of your vehicle to determine if it works with your particular model of vehicle.
The procedure for programming keys isn't difficult, but it requires patience and attention to details. You must follow a specific procedure in order to successfully program your car using the new key. The steps to do this are in the car's manual or by searching online for "onboard programming step X of your vehicle." Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs locked while you are trying to program them, as the inability to wait too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and then leave the programming mode.
2. You can unlock all the doors at the same time
You can use a programmable key to unlock the doors of your car immediately if you're in a rush and don't have time wait around for your family or friends. This is a great option for those who are always late to appointments or have trouble to locate their car in crowded parking spaces. This is a great option for people who have elderly or children who need assistance getting into their car.
A car key that is programmable differs from a traditional mechanical key, which is made of grooves and cuts that fit into the ignition of your car or door locks. It also comes with a computer chip connected to the car's computer. This chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer or auto manufacturer, based on the model and make of your car. Typically, this process is more complicated than making a duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and will cost you more. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the cost of this service.
Local locksmiths can program your keys at a lower cost than dealerships and often quicker. However, you'll require two functioning keys to allow the locksmith to link your new key to the computer system of your car. Additionally, many modern cars come with advanced anti-theft transponders, which must be specifically programmed for your car by a professional locksmith or dealer.
There are a few techniques you can employ at home to reprogram your car key. However, it's best to read the owner's manual, or search the Internet to find the exact steps for your specific car's model and brand. Certain manufacturers employ proprietary technology which prevents you from being in a position to change the programming of your key. This is why you must visit a locksmith or dealer who is experienced to get help. If you attempt to program your own key can cause damage to the car's electronic systems. It's expensive to fix so it's recommended to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your car from the distance
Car thieves are often targeting drivers as they attempt to gain entry into their vehicles. They are aware that it takes a moment 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 exact moment that you are at your most vulnerable. Luckily, you can prevent this from happening by locking your car from a distance by using an auto key that can be programmed. This feature is particularly useful for people who live in a crowded location or are afraid of losing their keys.
This feature is only available if your vehicle is compatible. To make sure your car is compatible, check with the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. You must possess an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to unlock your car remotely.
If you have lost your car key that is programmable, it is important to have an extra. It is possible that you will require replacing the transponder chip in case you don't. This can be expensive, so it is best to keep a spare key in the house. You can also have the key reprogrammed by an auto locksmith or dealer. Reprogramming your own car keys can be dangerous. It is recommended to hire a professional to perform the task so that others can't reprogram your key, and possibly steal your vehicle.
There are a lot of motorists who try to program their own programmable car keys (additional resources) by following online instructions. It's easy to do when you are familiar with the process. However, it can be confusing and difficult to learn by yourself. Furthermore, this method can be risky and might not function properly in certain situations. It's possible that reprogramming your keys could erase all of your other keys, which could cause them to cease to function. This is avoided by having two working keys prepared prior to starting. Make sure your car is off when you try to program your third keys.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The most obvious benefit of a programmable car key is that it can aid in unlocking your door quicker. Traditionally, to unlock a door you'd need to remove your key from your purse, pocket or wallet, put it in the ignition, and turn it. With a programmable car keys instead, you can simply press the button on the fob of your key to open the door, which is quicker and safer. It also means that you don't have to leave your friends or family waiting in your car while you look for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it's possible to replace it in the event of a broken or lost one. In many instances, you can request a replacement and then have it reprogrammed by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and works exactly as you intended. This is much easier than replacing the head of the key and can save you money.
For some vehicles, a specially-designed programer is required to reprogramme the key. These sophisticated devices are costly and are typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. These devices are expensive and require a lot of expertise to operate. Some locksmiths employ a method known as "EEPROM programming a car key" to read the transponder's code.
It is a good idea, regardless of the type of key to always have a spare on the side. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They aren't easy to replace. Also, you don't know how much to programme a car key easy a burglar can be to rob your car.
Fortunately, you can avoid all these problems by having an extra car key that can be programmed prepared in advance. Pop-A-Lock can make you an programmable car key for a reasonable price. It's much cheaper and less stressful than having to buy a new car after you lose your original keys.