Programmable Car Keys: 11 Thing You're Leaving Out

Benefits of Programmable Car Keys Car key preprogramming is a great way to prevent getting locked out of your car in the future. It can be expensive depending on your car. There are tools to help shops and DIY customers program replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer, Sanabria says. 1. You can start your car from an extended distance You need a programmed key to start your vehicle. This means that the key needs to have a specific microchip that is accessible to a receiver in the ignition. When the key is inserted it sends a signal the receiver that is in line with the code on the chip. If the signal matches then the car will start. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car, because the code is constantly changing and cannot be deciphered. It used to be possible to hot-wire a car and then drive away, but since the introduction of programmable keys it's now impossible. Many of these cars also have proximity sensors which prevent the car from being started if the key is not within reach. The most recent keys are capable of warming your car from an infinity distance making it easier to travel on cold winter days. With the EZ installer from Tom's Key Company it is now possible for you 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 mode of programming for a new automotive key. This kit is not compatible with all vehicles. You should check your owner's guide to see what it can do for your vehicle. The key programming process isn't difficult however, it requires patience and focus on detail. You must follow a strict procedure in order to successfully program your car with a new key. You can learn the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual, or look online for “onboard program step X of your vehicle.” Keep the ignition and keys locked as you attempt to program them. 2. You can unlock all of the doors at once. You can use a programmable key to unlock the doors of your vehicle immediately if you're in an errand and don't have time to wait for family or friends. This is a useful option for those who are always late to appointments or are unable to find their car in the crowded parking areas. It's also a good idea for people who have children and elderly family members who need assistance in getting in the car. A car key that can be programmed is different from a traditional mechanical key, which has grooves and cuts that fit in your car's ignition or door locks. It also has an electronic chip that is linked with the car's computers. The chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer, or auto manufacturer depending on the make and model of your car. This process is usually more complex than creating an exact copy of a traditional car key. It is more time-consuming and costs you more. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on this service. Local locksmiths can program your keys at a lower cost than dealerships and can often do it quicker. However, you'll need to have two working keys to allow the locksmith to connect your new key to your car's computer system. Additionally, many modern cars come with advanced anti-theft transponders that need to be specifically programmed for your car by a professional locksmith or dealer. There are some techniques you can employ at home to reprogram the car key. However, it's best to read the owner's manual, or search the Internet for the specific steps for your specific car's brand and model. Certain manufacturers employ proprietary technology that prevents you from being in a position to change the programming of your key. This is why you should consult a locksmith or dealer that has the expertise to help you. In the event that you attempt to program your personal key could damage the car's electronics. It's expensive to fix so it's recommended to avoid this risk. 3. You can lock your car from the distance Car thieves usually target 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 pocket or purse and then put them in the ignition. So they wait for you to be vulnerable. You can prevent this with an electronic key that locks your vehicle remotely. This feature is especially useful for people who live in an urban area or who don't want to risk losing their keys. You can only utilize this feature if your vehicle is compatible with it. To ensure that your car is compatible, inquire 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. It is essential to have a spare if you lose your programable key. If not, you may have to purchase a new transponder chip. It's expensive, so it's best to have an additional key. You can also have your key reprogrammed. This can be done by an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your own car key could be risky. It is safer to have it done professionally so that nobody else is able to reprogram your key and take your car. Many car owners try to program their programmable keys themselves by following the online instructions. It's simple once you know the process. However, it can be difficult and confusing to learn on your own. Moreover, this method can be risky and not work properly in some cases. It is possible that the key reprogramming will wipe out your other keys, causing them to cease working. car key cut and program is avoided by having two keys working ready before you start. Make sure that your car is off 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 will assist you in unlocking your door quicker. Traditionally, you needed to take the key out of your pocket or purse and place it in the ignition, turn it, and then manually unlock each door. A programmable key allows you to open your car door by pressing an icon on the key fob. This is faster and more secure. It also means that you don't need to leave your friends or family waiting outside your car while you hunt for your keys. If you have a programmed car key, it is possible to replace it in the event of a broken or lost one. In most cases, you can request an alternative key and then have it reprogrammed by a locksmith. This will ensure that your new key is compatible with your vehicle, and will function as you intended. This is a simpler process than replacing the head of the key and will save you money. Certain vehicles will require a specialist programer to reprogramme a key. These advanced devices are expensive and are typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. They are costly and require a great deal of expertise to operate. Some locksmiths use a technique known as “EEPROM Programming” to read the transponder code. 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 a challenge to replace. Also, you don't know how easy a thief can be to rob your car. You can avoid these issues by ordering a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can create an programmable car key for an affordable price. This is a less expensive and less stressful option than having to purchase new automobiles after you have lost your keys.