5 Conspiracy Theories About Programmable Car Keys You Should Avoid
Benefits of Programmable Car Keys
Preprogramming your car keys is a fantastic solution to avoid being locked out in the future. However, it can be a bit pricey dependent on the car you own.
There are tools that can help shops and DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore immobilizer data, Sanabria says.
1. You can start your vehicle from a distance
You require a key that is programmed to start your car. The key must have a microchip that is read by the receiver inside the ignition. When the key is put in, it sends a signal the receiver that matches the code in the chip. If the signal is in line, the car will start. This type of technology is far more secure than traditional methods of locking your vehicle since the code is constantly changing and is not able to be deciphered by thieves.
It used to be possible to hot-wire a car and drive away, but thanks to the advent of programmable keys, it's now impossible. Many of these cars also have proximity sensors which prevent the car from being started if the programing key is not within reach. The most recent keys are capable of warming your car from some distance making it easier to travel on cold winter days.
Utilizing 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 lets you bypass the anti-theft system of your car and enter the programming mode of a new key for your car. This kit is not compatible with all cars. It is recommended to check the owner's manual to see whether it is compatible with your car.
The process of programming keys isn't difficult however, it requires a lot of patience and concentration on the details. To program your car successfully using a new model system, you need to follow a specific method. You can find the steps in your vehicle's owner's manual, or look on the internet for "onboard program step X of your vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked when you are trying to program them.
2. You can open all of the doors at once.
When you are in the midst of a rush and don't want to be waiting for your family or friends to arrive, you can use a car key that is programmed to unlock all of the doors at once. This is a great feature to have for people who often miss appointments or who have trouble finding their cars in crowded parking lots. It's also a good idea for families with children or elderly family members who need assistance in getting into the car.
Contrary to traditional mechanical keys that have grooves and cuts that fit into the lock cylinder of your vehicle's door locks and ignition, a programmable key has a computer chip inside that is linked to the car's computer systems. This chip can be programmed by an auto manufacturer or locksmith depending on the car's make and model. Typically, this process is more complex than making a duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and costs more money. There are ways to save on this service.
Local locksmiths can program your programmable keys for less than the dealership and can often do it faster. You'll need two working keys for the locksmith to connect your new key to the computer in your car. In addition, many modern cars come with advanced anti-theft transponders that must be programmed specifically for your vehicle by a trained locksmith or dealer.
There are some tricks you can use at home to reprogram your car key. However, it's best to consult your owner's manual or search on the Internet for the specific steps for your car's model and brand. Certain manufacturers employ proprietary technology which prevents you from being in a position to change the programming of your key. This is why you should consult a locksmith or dealer who is skilled to assist you. Attempting to program your own key can cause damage to the car's electronic systems. It's expensive to fix and therefore it is recommended to avoid this risk.
3. You can lock your car from an extended distance
Car thieves often target motorists while they try to gain entry into their vehicles. They are aware that it takes just a few seconds to remove the keys out of your purse or pocket, and then put them in the ignition. Therefore, they are waiting for you to be vulnerable. You can avoid this by locking your vehicle at a distance using a programmable car key. This feature is particularly useful for people who live in a busy location or are afraid of losing their keys.
You can only use this feature only if your car is compatible with it. Check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to determine if your vehicle is compatible. To remotely unlock your car you need 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 important to keep one spare in case you lose your programmable key. In the event of a loss, you might need to purchase a replacement transponder chip. This can be costly, so it is best to have an extra key in your possession. You can also have the key changed by an auto locksmith or dealer. However, reprogramming a car key yourself can be dangerous. It is best to have it done professionally so that nobody else is able to reprogram your key and steal your car.
There are many car owners who attempt to program their own programmable car keys by following the online instructions. It can be quite easy when you are familiar with the procedure however it is difficult to master by yourself and could be a bit confusing if you aren't familiar with it. This method is not only dangerous, but it might be ineffective in certain instances. It's possible that key reprogramming car key can wipe out all of your other keys, causing them to stop working. You can avoid this by ensuring you have two functioning keys in your possession prior to starting. 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 car key is that it will help you unlock your door quicker. Traditionally, you needed to take the key out of your pocket or purse and then put it in the ignition, turn it on, and then unlock each door manually. With a programmable car key it is possible to simply press the button on the key fob to unlock the door, which is more convenient and safer. It also means that you don't have to keep your friends or family waiting in your car while you look for your keys.
It is simpler to replace a key that is programmable in the event you break or lose one. In many cases you can order a replacement and then have it reprogrammed by the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key programmers will work with your vehicle, and function as you would expect it to. This is a far simpler procedure than attempting to replace the head of the key, and it will usually save you some money.
Certain vehicles may require a special programer to reprogramme a key. These devices are costly and are generally only available to locksmiths. They also require a great deal of knowledge about how to use these devices. Some locksmiths will even use the method known as "EEPROM programming a car key," which is a more sophisticated way to read the code that is on your vehicle's transponder.
No matter what kind of key you have, regardless of the type, it's a good idea to keep an extra in the case. Keys for cars lost are common, and can be quite a hassle to replace. Also, you don't know how easy it is for a criminal will find it to steal your car.
You can avoid these issues by purchasing a spare programmable key in advance. This can be done at your local Pop-A-Lock locksmith for a low cost. This will be far cheaper and less stress-inducing than buying an entirely new car when you lose your keys.