Think You're Cut Out For Programmable Car Keys? Check This Quiz

Benefits of Programmable Car Keys Preprogramming your car key is a great way to avoid being locked out of your car in the future. However, it can be a bit pricey dependent on the car you own. There are tools to help shops and DIY customers program replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data, Sanabria says. 1. You can start your vehicle from some distance In order to start your car, you require keys that are programmed to work with it. The key should have an embedded microchip that can be read by the receiver in the ignition. When the key is inserted into the ignition, it sends an encoded signal to the receiver. If the signal is in line, then the car will begin. This kind of technology is far safer than the previous methods of locking your vehicle because the code is always changing and is not able to be deciphered by thieves. With the advent of programmable keys, it's now impossible to hot-wire your car and drive away. In addition, many of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that block the car from starting if not within the proximity to the key. The latest keys are capable of warming your car from an infinity distance making it easier to drive on cold 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 a distance. This kit will allow you to bypass the anti-theft feature in your car and enter the programming mode for a brand new automotive key. It is important to know that this kit doesn't work with all vehicles, and you should consult your owner's manual to determine what it can do for your specific model of vehicle. The process of programming keys isn't difficult, but it requires a lot of patience and attention to the smallest of details. To successfully program your car using a new model program, you must follow a specific method. The steps to do this can be found in the manual of your car or by searching online for “onboard programming step X for vehicle.” Be sure to keep the ignition and key fobs secured when you attempt to program them, since waiting too long between actions could cause the car to reset its commands and exit the programming mode. 2. You can unlock all the doors simultaneously. When you are in the midst of a rush and don't want to wait for your family or friends You can make use of an auto key that can be programmed to unlock all of the doors at once. This is a useful feature for people who are always late for appointments or have trouble to find their car in busy parking spaces. This is a great idea for people who have elderly or children who need assistance in getting into their car. Contrary to 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 has an internal 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 make of your vehicle. This process is usually more complex than making a copy of a traditional car key. It takes longer and is more expensive. There are, however, ways to reduce the cost of this service. Local locksmiths can program programmable keys at a lower cost than dealerships and can often do it quicker. You'll need two working keys for the locksmith in order to connect your new key to your computer in your car. In addition, many modern cars have advanced anti-theft transponders that must be specifically programmed for your car by a trained locksmith or dealer. There are some methods you can apply at home to reprogram a car key. It is best to consult the owner's manual of your specific model of car, or search online for the steps. Some manufacturers have proprietary technologies that stop you from reprogramming your key. This is why it is so important to visit an experienced locksmith or dealer for assistance with this. You may damage the electronic system of your car in the event that you attempt to program your key on your own. It's expensive to repair so it's recommended to avoid this risk. 3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance Car thieves often target drivers as they attempt to gain entry into their vehicles. They know that it takes a minute for you to grab your keys from your purse or pocket and to place them in the ignition, so they're waiting for you at the time when you are most vulnerable. You can prevent this with an electronic key that locks your vehicle remotely. This feature is especially useful for those who live in a crowded area or are worried that their keys could be lost. This feature is only available if your vehicle is compatible. You can check with your auto locksmith or the manufacturer to see whether your car is compatible. You must have an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to unlock your car remotely. It is essential to have an extra in case you lose your programmed key. You may need to replace the transponder chip in case you don't. This can be costly so it's best to keep a spare key in the house. You can also have your key reprogrammed, which can be done by a dealer or an auto locksmith. However the process of reprogramming a car's key yourself can be risky. It is recommended to do it professionally to ensure that no one else can reprogram your key and take your car. There are a lot of car owners who attempt to program their own programmable car keys by following online instructions. It's simple when you are familiar with the process. However it can be difficult and confusing to learn by yourself. Furthermore, this method can be risky and might not work properly in some instances. It is possible that key reprogramming could erase all of your other keys, making them cease to function. This can be avoided by having two working keys ready prior to beginning. Make sure your car is off when 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 would have to remove your key from your pocket, purse, or wallet, place it in the ignition, and turn it. With a programmable car key instead, you can just push the button on the key fob to unlock the door, which is more convenient and more secure. It also means that you don't have to keep your family or friends waiting in your car while you search for your keys. It is much easier to replace a key that is programmable in the event that you lose or break one. In many instances, you can request an alternative key and then have it reprogrammed by an locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and works as intended. This is a much simpler process than replacing the key head and will save you money. Certain vehicles may require a special programmer to reprogramme a new key. These sophisticated devices are costly and are typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. car key programming require extensive knowledge about how to use these devices. Some locksmiths will even use methods known as “EEPROM programming,” which is a more sophisticated method to read the code that is on the transponder in your vehicle. It is a good idea, regardless of the type of keys, to always have a spare key on the side. It is not uncommon to lose your car keys. They aren't easy to replace. Also, you don't know how easy a burglar will find it to steal your car. You can avoid these issues by purchasing a spare programmed key in advance. You can do this at your local Pop-Alock locksmith for a low cost. This is a cheaper and less stressful option than having to purchase new automobiles after you have lost your keys.