The 10 Most Scariest Things About Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming car keys is a great option to prevent getting locked out of your car in the future. However, it can be a bit pricey dependent on the car you own.
Luckily, there are tools available to assist shops and DIY customers create replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from a distance
In order to start your car, you require keys that are programmed to work with it. The key must have a microchip that can be read by the receiver in the ignition. Then, when the key is inserted, it sends out a signal to the receiver that is a match to the code inside the chip. If the signal matches, the car will start. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car, because the code is constantly changing and cannot be guessed.
It used to be possible to wire a car and drive away, however thanks to the introduction of programmable keys, this is now impossible. A majority of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that prevent the car keys programmed from being started when the key isn't within reach. The latest keys can even allow you to warm your car via remote, making it easier to get on the road on cold winter days.
Using the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own new key and start your vehicle from an extended distance. This kit allows you to bypass your car's anti-theft system and enter the programming mode of new set of keys for your vehicle. It is important to remember that this kit will not work on all vehicles, and you should consult your owner's manual to find out if it works with your specific model of vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not difficult, but it does require a lot of patience and attention to detail. 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 search on the internet for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked as you attempt to program them.
2. You can also unlock the doors at the same time.
You can use a programmable key to unlock the doors of your vehicle quickly if you're an errand and don't have the time to wait for family or friends. This is a great feature for people who are always late to appointments or have trouble to find their cheap car key programming in the crowded parking areas. It is also a good idea for people who have children or elderly family members who need assistance in getting into the car.
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys which have cut and grooves that fit into the lock cylinders of your car's door locks and ignition A programmable key comes with an internal computer chip that is connected to your car's computer systems. The chip can be programmed by either an auto manufacturer or locksmith, depending on your vehicle's make and model. This process is usually more complicated than making copies of the traditional car programing key. It takes longer and will cost you more. There are, however, ways to reduce the cost of this service.
A reliable locksmith in your neighborhood can program your programmable key at a lower cost than a dealership or auto parts store, and generally can do it quicker as well. You'll need two functioning keys for the locksmith to link your new key to your computer in your car. Additionally, many modern cars come with advanced anti-theft transponders that must be programmed specifically for your vehicle by a professional locksmith or dealer.
The process for reprogramming a car key isn't a simple process however there are some techniques you can try at home. However, it is recommended to consult your owner's manual, or search the Internet to find the exact steps for your vehicle's model and brand. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technologies that stop you from reprogramming car key your key. This is why it's important to visit an experienced locksmith or dealer to assist with this. If you attempt to program your own key can cause damage to the car's electronic components. This could be costly to repair, so it's best not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from an extended distance
Car thieves are often targeting drivers while they are trying to unlock their cars. They know that it takes a minute to take your keys from your purse or pocket 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 from happening by locking your car at a distance using a programmable car key. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who live in an urban area or who are afraid of losing their keys.
This feature only if your vehicle is compatible with it. You can consult your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to confirm whether your car 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 have lost your car key that is programmable, it is important to have a spare. You might require replacing the transponder chip in case you don't. It can be costly so it's recommended to have an extra key. You can also get the key reset by an auto locksmith or a dealer. However doing it yourself can be risky. It is recommended to have it done professionally so that nobody else is able to reprogram your key and steal your car.
There are many car owners who attempt to program their own keys that can be programmed by following the online instructions. It's not difficult once you know the process. However it can be complicated and difficult to master on your own. Moreover, this method can be dangerous and may not function properly in certain instances. It is possible that key reprogramming can wipe out all of your other keys, which could cause them to stop working. You can avoid this by ensuring that you have two working keys at hand prior to starting. 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 quicker. In the past, you had remove the key from your pocket or purse and place it in the ignition, turn it, and then manually unlock each door. A key that is programmable allows you to open your car door by simply pressing an icon on the key fob. This is faster and more secure. You don't need to leave your family or friends waiting outside your car while you look for your keys.
It is simpler to replace a key that is programmable in the event you lose or break one. In many instances, you can order an alternate key and then have it reprogrammed by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and functions in the way you want it to. This is a simpler process than replacing the key head and will save you money.
For certain vehicles, a specialized programer is required to reprogramme car key the key. These devices are expensive, and are generally only available to locksmiths. They also require extensive knowledge about how to use them. Some locksmiths employ a method known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder code.
It is a good idea, regardless of the type of key, to always have a spare on the side. Keys for cars lost are common, and they can be quite a hassle to replace. You never know how easy it would be for a criminal to gain entry into your vehicle and steal it.
You can avoid these issues by ordering a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can create an programmable car key for a reasonable price. It's much cheaper and less stressful than having to buy an entirely new car when you lose your keys.