Watch Out: How Programmable Car Keys Is Taking Over And What To Do
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is an excellent option to prevent being locked out in the future. It can be costly based on the car you drive.
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 vehicle from an extended distance
You will require a programmed key to start your vehicle. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip that is readable by a receiver in the ignition. Then, when the key is put in, it sends out a signal to the receiver that matches the code in the chip. If the signal matches, the car will begin. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car since the code is always changing and cannot be deciphered.
With the advent of a programmable key, it is now impossible to wire your car and drive off. Additionally, many of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that block the car from starting if not in reach of the key. The latest keys can make your car warm remotely, making it easier for you to drive during cold days.
Utilizing the EZ installer from Tom's Key Company it is now possible to program your new key and start your car from a distance. This kit will allow you to bypass the anti-theft system in your vehicle and go into programming mode for a new key for your car. It is important to remember that this kit doesn't work with all vehicles, and you should consult the owner's manual to find out whether it is compatible with the model you have chosen for your vehicle.
The process of programming keys is not complicated however, it requires patience and concentration on the details. You must follow a specific procedure to successfully program your car with a new key. The steps for doing this are in the car's manual or on the internet for "onboard programming step X of your vehicle." Make sure to keep the ignition and key fobs in a locked state while you program them, as waiting too long between steps could cause the car to reset its commands and exit the programming mode.
2. You can open all of the doors at the same time
If you're in a hurry and don't want to be waiting for your friends or family, you can use an auto key that can be programmed to open all doors at the same time. This is a great feature for those who always arrive late for appointments or have trouble to find their car in busy parking spaces. This is a great idea for people who have elderly or children who need assistance in getting into their car.
A programmable car key differs from a traditional mechanical key, which is made of grooves and cuts that fit in the ignition of your car or door locks. It also contains an electronic chip that is connected to the car's computers. The chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer or auto manufacturer depending on the model and make of your car. It is generally more complex than making duplicates of the traditional key. It takes longer and will cost you more. There are ways to save on this service.
A reliable locksmith in your neighborhood can program your programmable key for a much lower cost than the dealership or an auto parts store, and they typically can do it faster as well. However, you will require two working keys to allow the locksmith to connect your new key to the car's computer system. In addition, many modern automobiles have sophisticated anti-theft transponders that must be programmed specifically for your vehicle by a certified locksmith or dealer.
The process of reprogramming your car key isn't a simple process, and there are some methods you can attempt at home. It is recommended to read the owner's manual for the particular model of car or look up online for the steps. Certain manufacturers employ proprietary technology that prevents you from being in a position to reprogram your key. This is why you should consult an expert locksmith or dealer who has the expertise to help you. You could damage the electronic system in your car if you try to program your own key. It's expensive to fix and therefore it is recommended to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your vehicle from the distance
Car thieves usually target drivers while they are trying to unlock their cars. They know that it takes a minute to take your keys out of your purse or pocket to put them in the ignition, and they're waiting for you at the time when you are most vulnerable. You can stop this from happening by having the use of a key that can be programmed to lock your vehicle remotely. This feature is particularly useful for people who live in a crowded area or who don't want to risk losing their keys.
This feature is only available if your car is compatible. To confirm that your vehicle is compatible, check 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.
If you lose your programmable car key it is essential to have a spare. Otherwise, you may need to purchase a new transponder chip. It can be costly so it's recommended to have an extra key. You can also have the key reprogrammed by an auto locksmith or a dealer. However, reprogramming a car key yourself can be dangerous. It is safer to hire a professional to do the job so that other people aren't able to reprogram your key and then steal your car.
Many car owners try to program their programmable keys themselves by following online instructions. It's not difficult when you are familiar with the procedure however, it can be difficult to master on your own and may be a bit confusing if you aren't experienced with the procedure. Moreover, this method can be risky and not function properly in certain situations. It is possible that key reprogramming could erase all of your other keys, causing them to stop working. This is prevented by having two keys working ready prior to beginning. You should also ensure that your car isn't running while you are trying to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The most obvious benefit of a programmable vehicle key is that it will help you unlock your door faster. Traditionally when you want to unlock a door, you would have to remove your key from your pocket, purse, or wallet, place it in the ignition and turn it. With a car key that is programmable, however, you can just push the button on the fob of your key to open the door, which is much quicker and more secure. You don't need to leave your family or friends outside the car while you hunt for your keys.
It is simpler to replace a programmable lock in the event that you have to replace or break one. In many instances, you can purchase a replacement and then have it reprogrammed by the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and function as you would expect it to. This is a much simpler process than replacing the head of the key and will save you money.
For certain vehicles, a specially-designed programmer is required to reprogramme the new key. These advanced devices are expensive and typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. They are costly and require a great deal of knowledge to use. Some locksmiths employ a method called "EEPROM Programming" to read the transponder code.
Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it's a good idea to keep an extra in the case. 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 can be to rob your car.
You can get rid of these issues by purchasing a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can make you an auto key that is programmable at an affordable cost. This is a cheaper and less stressful alternative than having to purchase new automobiles after losing your original keys.