The 10 Scariest Things About Programmable Car Keys

Benefits of programmable car keys (image source)

Preprogramming your car keys is a fantastic solution to avoid being locked out in the future. However, it can be quite costly depending on the car you own.

There are tools available to help shops and even DIY customers to program replacement keys and restore data from the immobilizer, Sanabria says.

1. You can start your car from some distance

In order to start your vehicle, you'll need an ignition key that has been programmed to work with it. This means that the key has to have a particular microchip in it that is readable by a receiver in the ignition. When the key is inserted, it emits a signal to the receiver that matches the code in the chip. If the signal is in line, then the car will start. This technology is more secure than other methods of locking your car since the code is always changing and cannot be deciphered.

It was once possible to hot-wire a car and drive away, however with the introduction of programmable keys, it's now impossible. Additionally the majority of these vehicles come with proximity sensors that block the car from starting if it's not within proximity to the key. The most recent keys are capable of warming your car from some distance making it easier to drive during cold weather.

Utilizing the EZ Installer from Tom's Key Company, it is now possible to program your own new key and start your car from an extended distance. This kit will allow you to bypass the anti-theft feature in your vehicle and go into programming mode for a new automotive key. It is important to know that this kit doesn't work on all vehicles, and you should consult your owner's manual to find out if it works with the model you have chosen for your vehicle.

The procedure for programming keys is not difficult, but it requires a lot patience and a keen eye for details. You must follow a specific procedure to successfully program your car using the new key. You can find the steps in your car's owner's manual, programmable car keys or search on the internet for "onboard program step X vehicle." Keep the ignition and keys locked while you attempt to program them.

2. You can unlock all of the doors simultaneously.

When you are in a hurry and do not want to wait for your friends or family to arrive, you can use a programmable car key to open all doors at the same time. This is a great feature for those who are always late for appointments or are unable to find their car in busy parking areas. This is a great idea for those who have elderly or children who need assistance getting into their car.

Contrary to traditional mechanical keys that have grooves and cuts that fit into the lock cylinder of your car's ignition and door locks A key that is programmable has an internal computer chip that is linked to the car's computer systems. The chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer or auto manufacturer depending on the model and brand of your vehicle. In general, this procedure is more complex than making a duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and will cost you more. Fortunately, there are ways to save money on this service.

Local locksmiths can program programmable keys at a lower cost than dealerships and are often quicker. You will need two working keys for the locksmith in order to link your new key to your car's computer. In addition, many contemporary cars come with advanced anti-theft transponders that must be programmed specifically for your car by a certified locksmith or dealer.

There are some tricks you can use at home to reprogram your car key. However, it is best to consult your owner's manual or search the Internet for the exact steps for your vehicle's brand and model. Some manufacturers have proprietary technology that prevents you from reprogramming your own key, which is why it is so important to consult a knowledgeable locksmith or dealer to assist with this. Attempting to program your own key could damage the car's electronic systems. It can be expensive to repair so it's recommended to stay clear of this risk.

3. You can lock your vehicle from a distance

Car thieves target drivers as they attempt to unlock their vehicles. They know that it takes just a few seconds to remove your keys out of your purse or pocket, and then place them in the ignition. Therefore, they are waiting for you to be vulnerable. Luckily, you can prevent this by locking your vehicle from a distance with a programmable car key. This feature is particularly useful for those who live in a dense area or do not want their keys to be lost.

This feature is only available if your car is compatible. Check with your auto locksmith or manufacturer to determine whether your car keys programmed is compatible. You must possess an iPhone 11 and Apple Watch Series 6 and be within Bluetooth range to unlock your car remotely.

It is crucial to keep one spare in case you lose your programable key. You may require replacing the transponder chip if you don't. This can be costly and it is recommended to keep an extra key in your possession. You can also get your key reprogrammed, which can be done by a dealer or an auto locksmith. However doing it yourself can be dangerous. It is best to have it done professionally so that nobody else is able to reprogram your key and take your car.

There are many motorists who try to program their own programmable car keys by following the online instructions. It's easy to do if you already know the process. However it can be confusing and difficult to learn on your own. Furthermore, this method can be risky and might not function properly in certain situations. In fact, it's possible that the reprogramming process will erase the other keys and cause them to cease working. You can avoid this by ensuring you have two working keys in your possession prior to beginning. Make sure that your vehicle is turned off before you attempt to program your third keys.

4. You can unlock your door faster

The primary benefit of a programmable key is that you can unlock your doors quicker. Traditionally, you had remove the key from your pocket or purse and then put it in the ignition, turn it, and then manually unlock each door. With a programmable car keys it is possible to simply push a button on the key fob to unlock the door, which is much quicker and safer. It also means you don't have to leave your family or friends waiting outside your car while you look for your keys.

It is much easier to replace a programmable lock in the event that you have to replace or break one. In most cases, you can purchase a replacement and then have it reprogrammed by an locksmith. This will ensure that the new key is compatible with your vehicle and functions as intended. This is much easier than replacing the key head and will save you money.

For some vehicles, a special programer is required to reprogramme the new key. These devices are expensive, and are generally only accessible to locksmiths. They also require a great deal of knowledge about how to use them. Some locksmiths may even employ methods known as "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated way to read the code that is on the transponder in your vehicle.

No matter what kind of key you have, programmable car keys though, it is always a good idea to keep a spare handy. Lost car keys are frequent, and they can be quite a hassle to replace. Plus, you never realize how easy it could be for a burglar to gain entry into your vehicle and drive off with it.

You can avoid these issues by purchasing a spare programmable key in advance. Pop-A-Lock can make you an auto key that is programmable at an affordable price. This will be far cheaper and less stressful than buying a new car if you lose your keys.