The 10 Most 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. It can be costly based on the car you drive.
There are tools that can help shops and even DIY customers create replacement keys and restore immobilizer data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your car from an extended distance
In order to start your vehicle, you'll need keys that are programmed to work with it. The key must be equipped with a microchip that is read by the receiver in the ignition. When the key is put into the ignition, it transmits an encoding signal to the receiver. If the signal is in line the code, then the car will begin. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car as the code changes constantly and cannot be deciphered.
It used to be possible to hot-wire a car and drive away, however thanks to the advent of programmable keys, this has become impossible. Many of these cars also have proximity sensors that stop the car from starting in the event that the key isn't within range. The newest keys are even capable of warming up your car from a distance which makes it easier to travel on cold winter days.
With 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 allows you to bypass the anti-theft system of your car and allow you to enter the programming mode of a new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all cars. You should check the owner's manual to see what it can do for your vehicle.
The procedure for programming programing keys is not difficult, but it requires patience and a keen eye for details. To program your car successfully with a brand new key, you must follow a specific procedure. You can locate the steps in your car's owner's manual, or look on the internet for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked when you are trying to program them.
2. You can open all of the doors simultaneously.
You can use a key that is programmable to unlock the doors of your car key reprogrammed immediately if you're in an errand and don't have time to wait for friends or family members to arrive. This is a useful feature for those who are always late to appointments or have trouble to locate their car in crowded parking spaces. This is a great idea for those who have elderly or children who require assistance in getting into their vehicle.
A car key that is programmable is different from a traditional mechanical key, which has grooves and cuts that fit into your car's ignition or door locks. It also comes with a computer chip connected to the car's computers. This chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer, or auto manufacturer, based on the make and model of your vehicle. This process is usually more complicated than making a copy of a traditional car 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 programmable keys for less than the dealership and are often quicker. You will need two working keys for the locksmith to connect your new key with the computer in your car. In addition, many modern automobiles have sophisticated anti-theft transponders that need to be programmed specifically for your car by a certified locksmith or dealer.
There are some methods you can apply at home to reprogram the car key. It is recommended to refer to the owner's manual of your specific car model or go online to find the steps. Some manufacturers have proprietary technologies that stop you from reprogramming your own key, which is why it's important to consult a knowledgeable locksmith or dealer to assist in this. If you attempt to program your own key could damage the car's electronic components. It's costly to fix and therefore it is recommended to stay clear of this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from the distance
Car thieves usually target drivers as they attempt to open their cars. They know that it takes only a few seconds for you to pull your keys from your purse or pocket and to place them in your ignition, and they're waiting for you at the moment when you're most vulnerable. You can avoid this from happening by locking your car from a distance with a programmable car key. This feature is particularly useful for those who live in a busy area or if they are afraid of losing their keys.
This feature is only available if the car keys programmer is compatible. You can check with your auto locksmith near me program key fob 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 have lost your car key that is programmable, it is important to have a spare. You may need to replace the transponder chip if you don't. It's expensive so it's recommended to have an extra key. You can also get your key reprogrammed. This can be done by a dealer or an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your own car key could be risky. It is recommended to get a professional do the job so that other people can't reprogram your key, and steal your vehicle.
There are a lot of car owners who try to program their own programmable car keys by following online instructions. It's simple if you already know the process. However, it can be complicated and difficult to master by yourself. Furthermore, this method can be dangerous and may not work in certain instances. It's possible that reprogramming your keys can wipe out all of your other keys, making them stop working. This can be avoided by having two working keys prepared prior to starting. Make sure that your vehicle is turned off before 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 assist you in unlocking your door faster. Traditionally to unlock a door, you'd need to remove your key from your purse, pocket, or wallet, place 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 faster and safer. It also means that you don't have to keep your friends or family waiting in your car while you look for your keys.
It is easier to replace a programmable lock in the event that you lose or break one. In most cases you can simply purchase an alternative key and have it reset by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and will work in the way you want it to. This is a much simpler procedure than replacing the key head itself and will typically save you money.
Certain vehicles may require a specialist programer to reprogramme a key. These devices are expensive, and are typically only available to locksmiths. They also require extensive experience in using them. Some locksmiths use a technique known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder's code.
It is a good idea regardless of the type of key to always have a spare on to hand. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They can be a challenge to replace. You don't even know how easy it is for a criminal is to rob your car.
You can get rid of these issues by ordering a spare programmable key in advance. This can be done at your local Pop-Alock locksmith for an affordable price. This is much less expensive and less stress-inducing than buying an entirely new car when you lose your original keys.