The 10 Scariest Things About Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a great solution to avoid being locked out in the future. It could be costly depending on your car.
Sanabria says there are tools to help shops, or even DIY customers, program replacement keys and restore information from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from some distance
You require a key that is programmed to start your car. The key should have a microchip that is read by the receiver inside the ignition. When the key is put in, it sends out a signal to the receiver that is in line with the code on the chip. If the signal matches, the car will start. This kind of technology is more secure than traditional methods of locking your car, as the code is constantly changing and is unable to be detected by thieves.
With the advent of a programmable key, it is now impossible to connect your car to the hot-wire and drive away. Many of these cars also come with proximity sensors that prevent the car from starting when the key isn't within range. The latest keys can even warm up your car remotely, making it easier for you to travel on cold winter days.
With the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own new key and start your car from the distance. This kit allows you to bypass your car's anti-theft device and enter the programming car key mode of a new key for your car. It is important to note that this kit does not work on all cars and you must consult the owner's manual to find out whether it is compatible with your particular model of vehicle.
The process of programming keys your key is not complicated however it requires patience and concentration on the details. You must follow a strict procedure to successfully program your car with the new key. You will learn the steps in your car's owner's manual, or search on the internet for "onboard program step X for your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked as you try to program them.
2. You can unlock the doors simultaneously
You can use a programmable key to unlock the doors of your vehicle immediately if you're in hurry and don't have the time to wait for family or friends. This is a useful feature for people who always arrive late for appointments or find it difficult to find their car in the crowded parking lots. This is a great idea for those who have elderly or children who need assistance in getting into their car.
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys which have cut and grooves that fit into the lock cylinder of your car's door locks and ignition A key that is programmable has an internal computer chip which is connected to the car's computer systems. The chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer or auto key programmer manufacturer, based on the model and make of your car. This procedure is typically more complex than creating an exact copy of a traditional car key. It takes longer and can cost more. There are, however, ways to save money on this service.
Local locksmiths can program programmable keys for less than the dealership and can often do it faster. But, you'll require two working keys to allow the locksmith to link your new key to your car's computer system. Many modern cars also have advanced anti-theft transmitters that must be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
The process of reprogramming a car key isn't easy but there are a few techniques you can try at home. It is best to consult the owner's manual for your specific model of car, or go online to find the steps. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technologies that stop you from being able to reprogram your own key, which is why it is so important to seek out an experienced locksmith or dealer for assistance with this. You could damage the electronic system of your car in the event that you attempt to program your key yourself. It can be expensive to fix, so it's best to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance
Car thieves target drivers as they try to unlock their vehicles. They are aware that it takes a minute to take your keys from your purse or pocket and to place them in your ignition, and they're waiting for you at the time when you're most vulnerable. You can avoid this by locking your vehicle from a distance with an auto key that can be programmed. This feature is especially beneficial for those who live in a dense area or do not want their keys to be lost.
This feature is only available if the car is compatible. Check with your auto locksmith or manufacturer to confirm whether your car is compatible. To remotely unlock your car you will require 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 crucial to keep a spare if you lose your programmable key. You might have to replace the transponder chip if you don't. This can be expensive so it's best to keep an extra key in your possession. You can also get the key reset by an auto locksmith or a dealer. Reprogramming your own car keys could 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 a lot of car owners who try to program their own programmable car key cutting and programming keys (why not check here) by following online instructions. It's not difficult when you are familiar with the procedure however it is difficult to learn on your own and can be a bit confusing if you are not familiar with the procedure. Furthermore, this method can be dangerous and may not work properly in some instances. It is possible that the reprogramming process will wipe out your other keys and cause them to stop working. This is avoided by having two keys working ready prior to beginning. You should 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 programmable vehicle key is that it can assist you in unlocking your door faster. Traditionally, you needed remove the key from your pocket or purse and then put it in the ignition, turn it, and then unlock each door manually. With a programmable car keys it is possible to simply push the button on your key fob to open the door, which is more convenient and more secure. It also means that you don't have to leave your friends or family waiting outside your car while you hunt for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it is also simpler to replace it in the event of a damaged or lost one. In most cases, you can purchase a replacement and have it reprogrammed at an locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and works exactly as you intended. This is a simpler procedure than attempting to replace the head of the key, and will typically cost you less money.
Some vehicles will require a specialized programmer to reprogramme a new key. These sophisticated devices are costly and are usually only accessible to professional locksmiths. These devices are expensive and require a lot of expertise to operate. Some locksmiths will even use a method called "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated way to read the code of the transponder key programmer in your vehicle.
It is a good idea, regardless of the type of key to always have a spare key on hand. It is not uncommon to lose your keys to your car. They can be difficult to replace. Plus, you never realize how easy it could be for a criminal to gain entry into your vehicle and drive off with it.
You can avoid these problems by purchasing a spare programmed key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can create a programmable car key at an affordable price. This will be far cheaper and less stress-inducing than buying an entirely new car when you lose your original keys.