The 10 Scariest Things About Programmable Car Keys
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Car key preprogramming is a great option to ensure that you are not locked out of your car in the future. However, it could be a bit pricey depending on the vehicle you own.
Sanabria says that there are tools to help shops, or even DIY customers, to program keys for replacement and restore information from immobilizers.
1. You can start your car from some distance
In order to start your car, you require a key that is programmed to work with it. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip inside it that can be accessible to a receiver in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, it transmits a code-matching signal to the receiver. If the signal is in line, the car will start. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car, since the code is always changing and cannot be guessed.
With the advent of a programmable keys, it's now impossible to connect your car to the hot-wire and drive off. In addition the majority of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that stop the car from starting if it is not within range of the key. The most recent keys are capable of warming your car from a distance making it easier to travel on cold winter days.
Utilizing 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 will allow you to bypass the anti-theft system in your vehicle and go into programming mode for a brand new key for your car. It is important to note that this kit doesn't work on all vehicles, and you should consult the owner's manual to find out whether it is compatible with your particular model of vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not difficult, however it requires patience and a keen eye for details. To successfully program your car with a brand new key program, you must follow a specific procedure. You will learn the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual, or search online for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked as you attempt 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 car quickly if you're a rush and don't have time wait for family or friends. This is a great feature for people who are always late to appointments or have trouble to locate their car in crowded parking areas. It is also a good idea for families with children and elderly family members who need help getting in the car.
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, with grooves and cut-outs that fit into the lock cylinders of your car's door locks and ignition A key that is programmable has a computer chip inside that is connected to your car's computer systems. The 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 creating a duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and costs 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. You'll need two working keys for the locksmith in order to connect your new key to the car's computer. Modern cars are also equipped with sophisticated anti-theft devices that need to be programmed by an authorized locksmith or dealer.
There are a few methods you can apply at home to reprogram the car key. It is recommended to refer to the owner's manual for the particular model of car key programmer or search online for the steps. Certain manufacturers employ proprietary technology that prevents you from being able to reprogramme your key. This is why you must visit a locksmith or dealer who is experienced to get help. You may damage the car's electronic system if you try to program your own automotive key programmer. This could be costly to repair, so it is recommended not to take this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from an extended distance
Car thieves often target drivers while they are trying to open their cars. They are aware that it takes a minute for you to grab your keys from your pocket or purse and to place them in the ignition, so they're waiting for you at the time that you are at your most vulnerable. Fortunately, you can avoid this by locking your vehicle from a distance by using a programmable car key. This feature is especially useful for those who live in a crowded area or if they do not want to risk losing their keys.
This feature is only available if the car is compatible. Check with your auto locksmith or 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 allow you to unlock your car remotely.
It is crucial to keep one spare in case you lose your programmable key. You might require replacing the transponder chip if don't. This can be costly so it's best to keep an extra key on hand. You can also get the key reprogrammed by an auto key programmers locksmith or a dealer. Reprogramming your own car key 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 attempt to program their own programmable car keys by following the online instructions. It's quite simple to master the process if you're familiar with it, but it's difficult to master on your own and may be somewhat confusing if you aren't familiar with it. Furthermore, this method can be dangerous and may not work in certain situations. It's possible that key reprogramming can wipe out all of your other keys, making them stop working. This is avoided by having two working keys ready before you start. Make sure that your car is turned off when you attempt to program your third keys.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a car key is that it can help you unlock your door quicker. Traditionally when you want to unlock a door you'd have to take your key from your pocket, purse, or wallet, place it in the ignition, and turn it. With a programmable car keys instead, you can simply press the button on your key fob to open the door, which is much more convenient and more secure. It also means that you don't have to leave your family members or friends in your car while you look for your keys.
If you own a programmable car key, it's possible to replace it in the event of a lost or broken one. In many cases you can simply purchase an alternative programing key and have it changed by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will work with your vehicle and will function as you intended. This is a simpler process than replacing the key head and will save you money.
Some vehicles will require a specialist programmer to reprogramme a new key. These devices are costly and they are usually only accessible to locksmiths. These devices are expensive and require a lot of knowledge to use. Some locksmiths employ a method known as "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder's code.
No matter what kind of key you own, regardless of the type, it's recommended to keep a spare handy. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They can be a challenge to replace. Also, you don't know how easy it is for a criminal is to rob your car.
Fortunately, you can avoid all these problems by having a spare programmable car key prepared in advance. You can get this done at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for a reasonable price. It's much cheaper and less stress-inducing than buying an entirely new car when you lose your keys.