The 10 Scariest Things About Programmable Car Keys

Benefits of programmable car keys (sources)

Preprogramming your car key is a great way to avoid being locked out of your car in the future. It can be expensive depending on the car you drive.

Luckily, there are tools available to help shops and even DIY customers create replacement keys and restore the immobilizer's data, Sanabria says.

1. You can start your car from an extended distance

To start your car, you require keys that are programmed to work with it. This means that the key has to have a specific microchip in it that is readable by a receiver in the ignition. Then, when the key is put in, it sends a signal the receiver that is a match to the code inside the chip. If the signal matches then the car will begin. This type of technology is more secure than previous methods of locking your vehicle because the code changes constantly and cannot be guessed by thieves.

With the advent of programmable keys, it's now impossible to connect your car to the hot-wire and drive away. A majority of these vehicles have proximity sensors that stop the car from being started if the key is not within reach. The most recent keys are capable of warming your car from some distance which makes it easier to get on the road during cold weather.

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 your car's anti-theft device and enter the programming mode of new set of keys for your vehicle. It is important to note that this kit will not work with all vehicles and you must consult your owner's manual to find out what it can do for your specific model of vehicle.

The key programming procedure isn't difficult, but it requires a lot of patience and a keen eye for details. You must follow a specific procedure to successfully program your car with a new key. The steps to do this are in your car's manual or on the internet for "onboard programming step X for vehicle." Make sure to keep the ignition and key fobs locked while you are trying to program them, as waiting too long between actions could cause the car key programer to reset its commands and leave the programming mode.

2. You can unlock all the doors at the same time

You can use a key that is programmable to unlock the doors of your vehicle at once if you're in a rush and don't have time to wait around for your family or friends. This is a useful feature for those who always arrive late for appointments or have trouble to find their car in the crowded parking spaces. It is also a good idea for families with children and elderly family members who need assistance in getting into the car.

A car key that is programmable differs from a traditional mechanical key, which is made of grooves and cuts that fit in your car's ignition or door locks. It also comes with an electronic chip that is connected to the car's computer. The chip is programmed by a locksmith or dealer or auto manufacturer depending on the model and make of your vehicle. It is generally more complex than making an exact duplicate of a traditional key. It takes longer and will cost you more. There are, however, ways to reduce the cost of this service.

A trusted locksmith in your area can program your programmable keys for a much lower cost than the dealership or an auto locksmith key programming near me parts store, and they can usually do it faster too. However, you will require two working keys to allow the locksmith to link your new key to the computer system of your car. In addition, many contemporary cars have advanced anti-theft transponders, which must be programmed specifically for your car by a certified locksmith or dealer.

There are some techniques you can employ at home to re-program a car key. However, it's best to refer to the owner's manual or search on the Internet for the specific steps for your car's brand and model. Certain manufacturers have proprietary technology that prevents you from reprogramming your own key, which is why it's important to visit an experienced locksmith or dealer to assist in this. Attempting to program your own key could damage the car's electronic components. This can be very expensive to repair, so it's recommended not to take this risk.

3. You can lock your vehicle from an extended distance

Car thieves are often targeting drivers as they attempt to open their cars. They are aware that it takes only a few seconds for you to pull your keys from your purse or pocket to place them in the ignition, and they're waiting for you at the exact moment when you are most vulnerable. You can prevent this with a programmable key that locks your car remotely. This feature is especially beneficial for those who live in a crowded area or don't want their keys to be lost.

This feature only if your vehicle is compatible with it. To make sure your car is compatible, you can consult the manufacturer or an auto locksmith. To unlock your car remotely you will require an iPhone 11 or later and the Apple Watch Series 6 or later and be within Bluetooth range of your vehicle.

If you lose your programmable car key, it is important to have a spare. 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 have the key changed by an auto locksmith or a dealer. Reprogramming your car key can be dangerous. It is safer to get it done by a professional so that nobody else is able to 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 quite simple if you know the process, but it's difficult to learn by yourself and could be a bit confusing if you aren't familiar with it. This method is not only dangerous, but it may also not work in some situations. In reality, it's possible that the reprogramming car key process will wipe out the other keys and cause them to stop working. You can avoid this by ensuring that you have two keys that work on hand before starting. Also, ensure that your vehicle isn't running when you try to program your third key.

4. You can unlock your door faster

The most obvious benefit of a car key is that it can aid in unlocking your door quicker. Traditionally, you needed to take the key out of your purse or pocket and then put it in the ignition, turn it, and then unlock each door manually. With a programmable car keys instead, you can simply push a button on the key fob key programming to unlock the door, which is much more convenient and safer. It also means you don't have to keep your family or friends waiting outside your car while look for your keys.

If you have a programmed car key, it is possible to replace it in the case of a lost or broken one. In most cases, you can order a replacement and have it reprogrammed at the locksmith. This will ensure that the new key will be compatible with your vehicle and works as intended. This is a easier process than attempting to replace the head of the key, and can save you some money.

For certain vehicles, a special programer is required to reprogram the key. These sophisticated devices are costly and typically only available to locksmiths who are professionals. They are costly and require a lot of expertise to operate. Some locksmiths may even employ a method called "EEPROM programming," which is a more sophisticated method to read the code that is on the transponder in your vehicle.

Regardless of what type of key you have regardless of the type, it's an excellent idea to have a spare handy. It is not uncommon to lose your keys to your car. They can be a challenge to replace. Also, you don't realize how easy it could be for a thief to get into your car and take it away.

Fortunately, you can steer clear of any of these issues by getting a spare car key reprogramming near me that is programmable created in advance. Pop-Alock can create you an programmable car key for an affordable cost. This is a cheaper and less stressful alternative than buying an entirely new car after you have lost your keys.