Watch Out: How Programmable Car Keys Is Taking Over And What You Can Do About It
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is an excellent solution to avoid being locked out in the future. It can be expensive depending on the vehicle you own.
Sanabria says there are tools available to help shops, and even DIY customers, to program keys for replacement and restore data from immobilizers.
1. You can start your vehicle from some distance
In order to start your vehicle, you'll need keys that are programmed to work with it. program a 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 matches, the car will start. This method is more secure than other methods of locking your car as the code changes constantly and cannot be guessed.
With the advent of programmable key, it's impossible to connect your car to the hot-wire and drive off. Additionally, many of these vehicles now have proximity sensors that block the car from starting if it's not within the reach of the key. The latest keys can even allow you to warm your car by remote, making it much easier to get on the road in cold weather.
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 allows you to bypass your car's anti-theft device and allow you to enter the programming mode of new set of keys for your vehicle. This kit is not compatible with all cars. You should check the owner's manual to determine what it can do for your car.
The key programming process isn't difficult, but it does require patience and attention to detail. You must follow a strict procedure to successfully program your car with the new key. You will locate the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual, or look online for "onboard program step X vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked as you try to program them.
2. You can open all of the doors at once.
You can use a key that is programmable to unlock the doors of your vehicle at once if you're in a rush and don't have time to wait for family or friends. This is a great option for those who are always late to appointments or are unable to find their car in busy parking areas. This is a great option for people who have elderly or children who need assistance in getting into their vehicle.
In contrast to 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 an embedded computer chip that is linked to the car's computer systems. This chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer or auto manufacturer based on the model and brand of your car. It is generally 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.
A trusted locksmith in your area can program your programmable key at a lower cost than a dealership or an auto parts store, and generally can do it quicker too. However, you will require two functioning keys to allow the locksmith to connect your new key to the computer system of your car. Modern cars are also equipped with advanced anti-theft transmitters that must be programmed by a locksmith or dealer.
There are a few techniques you can employ at home to re-program your car key. However, it is best to read the owner's manual or search the Internet for the exact steps for your car's model and brand. Certain manufacturers use proprietary technology that blocks you from being able to change the programming of your key. This is why you should consult a locksmith or dealer that has the expertise to help you. If you attempt to program your own key can cause damage to the car's electronic systems. It can be expensive to repair, so it's best to stay clear of this risk.
3. You can lock your car from a distance
Car thieves are often targeting drivers as they attempt to gain entry into their vehicles. They are aware that it takes a few seconds to take the keys out of your purse or pocket and then put them in the ignition. So they wait for you when you're most vulnerable. Luckily, you can prevent this from happening by locking your car from a distance with the ability to program your car keys. This feature is particularly beneficial for people who live in a busy area or if they are afraid of losing their keys.
This feature is only available if your vehicle is compatible. Check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to determine whether your vehicle is compatible. To unlock your car remotely, you must have an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later and be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.
It is crucial to keep an extra in case you lose your programable key. It is possible that you will have to replace the transponder chip in case you don't. This can be costly so it's best to keep an extra key in the house. You can also get the key changed by an auto locksmith or a dealer. However, reprogramming a car key yourself is risky. It is recommended to get it done by a professional, so that others cannot reprogram your car key and steal your car.
Many car owners try to program their programmable keys themselves by following the online instructions. It's not difficult when you are familiar with the procedure. However it can be difficult and confusing to learn by yourself. Additionally, this method could be dangerous and may not work properly in some instances. It is possible that the key reprogramming will erase your other keys and cause them to stop working. You can avoid this by ensuring that you have two functioning keys at hand prior to beginning. Also, ensure that your car isn't running when you try to program your third key.
4. You can unlock your door faster
The primary benefit of a programmed key is that it can unlock your doors quicker. Traditionally when you want to unlock a door, you'd need to remove your key from your pocket, purse or wallet, then put it in the ignition, and turn it. With a car key that is programmable instead, you can just push a button on the key fob to unlock the door, which is much more convenient and more secure. It's not necessary to leave your family or friends waiting in the car while you search for your keys.
If you have a programmable car key, it is also easier to replace it in the case of a broken or lost one. In many instances you can simply purchase a replacement key and have it reprogrammed by locksmiths. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and functions in the way you want it to. This is a simpler process than attempting to replace the key head itself and it will usually save you some money.
Some vehicles will require a specialist programmer to reprogramme the key. These devices are costly, and they are usually only accessible to locksmiths. They are costly and require a lot of knowledge to use. Some locksmiths will even use the method known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated way to read the code that is on your vehicle's transponder.
Whatever type of key you have, however, it's recommended to keep a spare handy. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They aren't easy to replace. You don't even know how easy a thief can be to rob your car.
Fortunately, you can avoid any of these issues by getting a spare car key that is programmable prepared in advance. You can get this done at your local Pop-Alock locksmith for a reasonable price. This is a cheaper and less stressful alternative than having to purchase new automobiles after you have lost your keys.