17 Reasons You Shouldn't Be Ignoring Programmable Car Keys

Benefits of Programmable Car Keys Preprogramming car keys is a great method to avoid being locked out of your car in the future. However, it can be expensive depending on the vehicle you own. There are tools to help shops and even DIY customers create replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer, Sanabria says. 1. You can start your vehicle from a distance To start your car, you need a key that is programmed to work with it. This means that the key needs to have a specific microchip inside it that can be readable by a receiver in 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 begin. This type of technology is much safer than the traditional methods of locking your vehicle, as the code changes constantly and is unable to be detected by thieves. With the advent of programmable key, it's impossible to hot-wire your car and drive away. A lot of these cars have proximity sensors which prevent the car from being started when the key isn't within reach. The latest keys can make your car warm remotely, making it easier to drive during cold days. With the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own new key and start your vehicle from the distance. This kit allows you to bypass the anti-theft system of your car and allow you to enter the programming mode of a new set of keys for your vehicle. This kit is not compatible with all cars. You should consult the owner's manual to see what it can do for your car. The key programming process is not complicated however it requires a lot of patience and concentration on the details. To program your car successfully with a brand new key system, you need to follow a specific method. You can find 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 when you are trying to program them. 2. You can also unlock the doors simultaneously You can use a programmable key to unlock the doors of your vehicle immediately if you're in a rush and don't have time wait for family or friends. This is a great feature for those who are frequently late for appointments or are having difficulties finding their vehicles in parking lots that are crowded. It's also a good idea for families with children or elderly relatives who need help getting into the car. In contrast to traditional mechanical keys that have grooves and cuts that fit into the lock cylinders of your car's ignition and door locks A programmable key comes with a computer chip inside that is linked to the car's computer systems. This chip is programmed by a locksmith, or dealer, or auto manufacturer depending on the model and brand of your car. This process is usually more complex than making an exact copy of a traditional car key. It takes longer and is more expensive. There are ways to save money on this service. Local locksmiths can program programmable keys for less than the dealership and are often faster. However, you will require two working keys in order for the locksmith to link your new key to the computer system of your car. Many modern cars also have advanced anti-theft transmitters that must be programmed by a locksmith or dealer. There are some tricks you can use at home to reprogram a car key. However, it's best to read the owner's manual or search the Internet for the exact steps for your vehicle's model and brand. Certain manufacturers employ proprietary technology which prevents you from being able to reprogramme your key. This is why you must visit a locksmith or dealer who is skilled to assist you. You may damage the car's electronic system in the event that you attempt to program your key on your own. This can be very expensive to repair, so it is wise not to take the risk. 3. You can lock your car from an extended distance Car thieves are often targeting drivers while they are trying to gain entry into their vehicles. They are aware that it takes only a few seconds to retrieve the keys out of your pocket or purse and then place them in the ignition. So they wait for you when you're most vulnerable. You can avoid this by using an electronic key that locks your vehicle remotely. This feature is especially useful for those 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. You can check with your auto locksmith or manufacturer to determine whether your vehicle is compatible. You must possess an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to allow you to unlock your vehicle remotely. It is important to keep a spare if you lose your programable key. In the event of a loss, you might need to get a new transponder chip. It's costly and it's advisable to have an additional key. You can also get your key reprogrammed. This can be done by a dealer or an auto locksmith. Reprogramming your car key could be risky. It is safer to have a professional do the job so that other people cannot reprogram your keys and steal your vehicle. Many car owners attempt to program their programmable keys themselves by following the online instructions. It's not difficult if you know the process, but it's difficult to master on your own and can be a bit confusing if you are not familiar with it. This method isn't just dangerous, but it may be ineffective in certain cases. In fact, it's possible that the reprogramming process will wipe out your other keys, causing them to cease functioning. This is prevented by having two keys working ready before you start. Make sure your vehicle is turned off before you attempt to program your third key. 4. You can unlock your door faster The main benefit of a programmed key is that it can unlock your doors quicker. Traditionally 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, however, you can simply press the button on your key fob to open the door, which is more convenient and safer. It also means that you don't need to leave your friends or family waiting outside your car while you look for your keys. If you have a programmable car key, it's also easier to replace it in the event of a lost or broken one. In many cases you can simply purchase a replacement key and have it changed by a locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and will work as intended. This is a simpler process than replacing the key head and will save you money. For certain vehicles, a specially-designed programer is required to reprogramme the new key. These advanced devices are expensive and are typically only available to professional locksmiths. They are costly and require a lot of expertise to operate. reprogramme car key employ methods known as “EEPROM programming,” which is a more sophisticated way to read 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 hand. Lost car keys are very common, and they can be an absolute pain in the neck to replace. Plus, you never know how easy it will be for a burglar to gain entry into your vehicle and drive off with it. You can get rid of these issues by purchasing a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can make you a programmable car key at an affordable price. This is a less expensive and less stressful alternative than having to purchase a new vehicle after losing your original keys.