The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of programmable car keys (sneak a peek here)
Preprogramming your car keys is a great option to prevent being locked out in the future. It can be expensive depending on your car.
Luckily, there are tools available to assist shops and DIY customers program replacement keys and restore immobilizer data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your car from some distance
In order to start your car, you need keys that are 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 put in, it sends a signal the receiver that matches the code in the chip. If the signal is in line, then the car will begin. This type of technology is much more secure than other methods of locking your vehicle, as the code changes constantly and cannot be guessed by thieves.
It was once possible to hot-wire a car and drive away, however thanks to the introduction of programmable keys this is now impossible. In addition that many of these cars come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting if it's not within the range of the key. The latest keys can make your car warm remotely, 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 new key and start your car from afar. This kit lets you bypass your car's anti-theft device and enter the programming a key mode of a new automotive keys. This kit is not compatible with all automobiles. You should check the owner's manual to determine if it will work with your vehicle.
The key programming process is not difficult however, it requires a lot of patience and concentration on the details. You must follow a specific procedure in order to successfully program your car using a new key. You can learn the steps in your car's owner's manual, or look online for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked as you are trying to program them.
2. You can open the doors at the same time.
You can use a key that is programmable to unlock the doors of your vehicle quickly if you're an errand and don't have time to wait for family or friends. This is a useful feature for those who are always late to appointments or find it difficult to locate their car in crowded parking spaces. It's also a good idea for people who have children and elderly family members who require assistance getting into their car.
A programmable car key differs from a traditional mechanical key that has grooves and cuts that can be inserted into the ignition of your car or door locks. It also comes with a computer chip that is linked with the car's computers. This chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer, or auto manufacturer depending on the model and brand of your vehicle. Typically, this process is more complex than making an exact duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and can cost more. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce the cost of this service.
Local locksmiths can program programmable keys at a lower cost of programming a car key than dealerships and are often quicker. You'll need two working keys for the locksmith to link your new key to your computer in your car. In addition, many contemporary cars come with advanced anti-theft transponders that need to be specifically programmed for your car by a trained locksmith or dealer.
The process for reprogramming a car key isn't a simple process but there are a few tricks you can try at home. However, it is recommended to read the owner's manual or search on the Internet for the exact steps for your vehicle's model and brand. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technology that prevents you from reprograming your key. This is why it is so important to visit an experienced locksmith near me program key fob or dealer to assist in this. In the event that you attempt to program your personal key could cause damage to the car's electronic systems. This could be costly to repair, so it's best not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your car key programming from a distance
Car thieves target drivers as they attempt to unlock their vehicles. They know that it takes only a few seconds to retrieve your keys from your purse or pocket, and put them into the ignition. So they wait for you to be vulnerable. You can avoid this by using the use of a key that can be programmed to lock your car remotely. This feature is particularly useful for those who live in a dense area or don't want their keys to be lost.
This feature only if your vehicle is compatible with it. To make sure your car is compatible, you can inquire with 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 important to keep one spare in case you lose your programmed key. You might need to replace the transponder chip if don't. It's costly so it's recommended to have an extra key. You can also have the key reset by an auto locksmith or dealer. Reprogramming your own car key could be risky. It is recommended to have a professional do it so that others can't reprogram your key, and then steal your car.
There are many car owners who try to program their own programmable car keys by following online instructions. It's quite simple if you know the process however, it can be difficult to learn on your own and may be a bit confusing if aren't experienced with the procedure. Additionally, this method could be risky and might not work in certain cases. It's possible that key reprogramming could erase all of your other keys, which could cause them to stop working. This is prevented by having two keys that work ready before you start. Also, ensure that your car is not running when you try to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The most obvious benefit of a car key reprogram near me is that it will aid in unlocking your door quicker. In the past, you had to take the key out of your purse or pocket and then put it in the ignition, turn it on, and then manually unlock each door. With a programmable car keys, however, you can just push the button on the key fob to unlock the door, which is faster and more secure. It also means you don't have to leave your friends or family waiting in your car while you look for your keys.
It is much easier to replace a programmable lock in the event that you lose or break one. In many instances you can just purchase a replacement key and have it reset by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and will work as intended. This is much easier than replacing the key head and will save you money.
Some vehicles will require a special programer to reprogramme a key. These sophisticated devices are costly and are typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. They also require extensive experience in using them. Some locksmiths use a technique known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder's code.
No matter what kind of key you have, however, it's recommended to keep an extra key in your pocket. Lost car keys are very common, and they can be an absolute headache to replace. Plus, you never know how easy it would be for a burglar to gain entry into your vehicle and drive off with it.
You can avoid these problems by purchasing a spare programmable key in advance. You can get this done at your local Pop-Alock locksmith for a low cost. This is a cheaper and less stressful alternative than purchasing a new vehicle after losing your original keys.