The Most Common Mistakes People Do With Programmable Car Keys
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.
Sanabria says there are tools that can help shops, and even DIY customers, to program replacement keys and restore data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from some distance
In order to start your car, you need keys that are programmed to work with it. This means that the key needs to have a specific microchip inside it that can be capable of being read by a receiver inside the ignition. When the key is inserted, it emits a signal to the receiver that is in line with the code on the chip. If the signal matches then the car will start. This method is more secure than other methods of locking your car since the code is always changing and cannot be guessed.
It was once possible to connect a car's hot-wire and drive away, but since the introduction of programmable keys it's now impossible. A majority of these vehicles have proximity sensors which prevent the car from being started when the key isn't within reach. The most recent keys can warm up your car by remote, making it much easier for you to get on the road in cold weather.
With the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your new key and start your car from the distance. This kit allows you to bypass the anti-theft feature in your vehicle and enter the programming mode for a brand new automotive key. This kit is not compatible with all vehicles. You should check your owner's guide to see if it will work with your vehicle.
The key programming process isn't difficult however, it requires a lot of patience and concentration on the details. To program your car successfully with a brand new key program, you must follow a specific process. You will find the steps in your car's owner's manual, or look online for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked when you try to program them.
2. You can unlock all of the doors at once.
When you are in a hurry and do not want to wait for your friends or family You can make use of a programmable car key to unlock all of the doors at once. This is a great feature for people who always arrive late for appointments or are unable to find their car in the crowded parking lots. It is also a good idea for people who have children or elderly relatives who need assistance in getting into their car.
Unlike traditional mechanical keys, that have grooves and cuts that fit into the lock cylinder of your vehicle's ignition and door locks A programmable key comes with an internal computer chip that is linked to the car's computer systems. The chip can be programmed by either a locksmith or auto manufacturer based on your vehicle's model and make. In general, this procedure is more complicated than creating duplicates of the traditional key. It is more time-consuming and costs you more. There are ways to save on this service.
A trusted locksmith in your area can program your programmable key at a lower cost than a dealership or auto parts store, and typically can do it faster too. However, you will need to have two working keys to allow the locksmith to link your new key to the car's computer system. Additionally, many modern cars have advanced anti-theft transponders, which must be specifically programmed for your car by a trained locksmith or dealer.
The process for reprogramming a car key isn't a simple process however there are some methods you can attempt at home. However, it's best to read the owner's manual or search on the Internet to find the exact steps for your specific car's model and brand. Some manufacturers have proprietary technology that stops you from reprograming your key. This is why it's important to consult a knowledgeable locksmith or dealer to assist with this. You could damage the car's electronic system if you try to program your key yourself. This could be costly to repair, so it's wise not to take the risk.
3. You can lock your car from the distance
Car thieves target drivers when they attempt to unlock their vehicles. They are aware that it takes a minute to take your keys out of your purse or pocket and to place them in the ignition, and they're waiting for you at the time when you're most vulnerable. You can avoid this by using a programmable key that locks your car remotely. This feature is particularly useful for those who live in a crowded area or do not want their keys to be lost.
This feature is only available if your vehicle is compatible. To ensure that your car is compatible, check with the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. 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.
If you lose your programmable car key it is essential to have a spare. If not, you may have to purchase a new transponder chip. It's expensive and it's advisable to have an extra key. You can also get the key reset by an auto locksmith or dealer. However, reprogramming a car key yourself can be dangerous. It is safer to do it professionally so that nobody else is able to reprogram your car key and steal your car.
Many car owners try to program their own programmable keys by following the online instructions. It can be quite easy if you know the process, but it's difficult to learn by yourself and could be a bit confusing if you are not familiar with the procedure. Additionally, this method could be risky and might not function properly in certain instances. In reality, it's possible that the reprogramming of keys will erase your other keys and cause them to cease functioning. You can prevent this from happening by making sure that you have two working keys in your possession prior to starting. Make sure that your vehicle is turned off before you try to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The most obvious benefit of a programmable car key is that it will assist you in unlocking your door faster. Traditionally to unlock a door you would have to remove your key from your purse, pocket or wallet, put it in the ignition and turn it. A programmable key enables you to open your car's doors by pressing the button on the key fob. This is quicker and safer. It's not necessary to leave your family or friends outside your car while you search for your keys.
It is easier to replace a key that is programmable in the event you have to replace or break one. In most cases you can simply purchase a replacement key and then have it changed by locksmiths. This will ensure that your new key will work with your vehicle and will function as you intended. This is a much simpler procedure than attempting to replace the key head itself and it will usually save you money.
For certain vehicles, a specially-designed programer is required to reprogramme the key. These devices are expensive, and are generally only available to locksmiths. They are costly and require a great deal of knowledge to use. Some locksmiths may even employ methods known as "EEPROM programming car key," which is a more sophisticated method of reading the code that is on your vehicle's transponder.
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 keys to your car. They can be difficult to replace. Plus, you don't know how easy a thief is to rob your car.
Fortunately, you can avoid any of these issues by getting a spare programmable car key prepared in advance. Pop-Alock can create you an programmable car key for an affordable price. This is a less expensive and less stressful option than purchasing a new vehicle after losing your original keys.