Why Get Your Car Key Programmed?
Many people should have their car key programmed. You may have to reprogram your remote in the event that your children press the button too often or if you've lost keys.
Some auto locksmiths and dealerships have the equipment needed to accomplish this task. They can also duplicate keys that are already in use, if that's possible.
Transponder Keys
A transponder keys is a different name for an electronic car key, also often referred to chip keys or a smart key. Transponder keys have an embedded microchip that can store and transmit information, which can help keep your car from being stolen. The microchip sends out an identification code every time the key in the ignition is turned. Once the ID code matches that in your car's computer, the immobilizer will be turned off, and your engine will begin to run.
This is a more sophisticated security method than non-transponder keys which do not have an embedded chip and are not compatible with all modern cars' anti-theft systems. Transponder chips were developed to decrease the number of car thefts. They have proven successful as car thefts have decreased significantly since their introduction.
The transponder on the car key will illuminate when the key is placed into the ignition. The antenna, dubbed an "inductive coil" is situated on the key. The transponder then transmits a radio frequency signal containing the unique "password". This is sent to the anti-theft device of your vehicle. If the password is valid, the car will turn off the immobilizer, allowing you to begin the vehicle.
If the password is not correct the immobilizer will stay active and the engine will not start. This is a great method to deter thieves from taking your car because even the case that a duplicate key could be created, the criminal won't have the code to fool your car into running.
The only downside to transponder keys is that it is not compatible with mechanical keys that are not transponder. These types of keys function by physically moving door lock mechanisms or the cylinder of ignition like GM's VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) system which requires the right amount of resistance in order to turn the cylinder.
The non-transponder keys of the past can be copied by a locksmith, but the criminal will have to manually move the locks in order to start the engine and likely require a transponder-programming device to accomplish this. This is among the main reasons that it is advisable to call a professional locksmith for cars like Pop-A-Lock whenever you need a new transponder key cut or a car key programmed.
Electronic Key Fobs
A key fob emits a signal that activates your car's locking system that allows you to open the door and access your vehicle. Depending on the features of your model you can also control the trunk and alarm. Fobs have a microchip inside that transmits codes to the receiver, which interprets them. The code corresponds to a certain frequency and, if the reader detects that frequency, it transmits an instruction to your lock to function.
If you are using an electronic fob for commercial use, it can be integrated with an existing security system. This can add additional levels of protection. Fobs can be blocked immediately when they're stolen or lost, which is an added layer of security in a workplace where a key might drop off a desk and be picked up by unauthorised individuals. Fobs can also be copied to make copies that are not authorized. contain your security codes. This leaves your car vulnerable to theft by unauthorized persons.
Fobs are highly convenient and can be used to open your doors without the need for keys like a traditional one. It isn't difficult for a common person to program a fob, even when it requires some technical expertise. Fobs are typically programmed using the aid of a specific software tool or following instructions in the user's manual for the vehicle.
The process of reprogramming your key fob is similar across most models, and you will often find more detailed information regarding your specific model in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. It is important to remember that these steps may not work for all models. If you encounter any issues, consult your dealer or an expert locksmith.
Begin by getting in your driver's seat. Hold the key fob you want to re-program in your hand. Make sure the door is shut and there aren't any other keys in the ignition. Press and hold the button to lock your fob until you hear a chime or the sound of the locks cycling and then you've entered program mode. Next, repeat these steps to program additional fobs as needed until all of them have been reprogrammed.
Enhanced Security
Transponder keys add an additional security feature that isn't always accessible with traditional key fobs. Thieves using a transponder car key aren't likely to steal your vehicle since the chip inside the key will only recognize its proper code and match it to the immobilizer system inside your vehicle. If it fails to do so, the vehicle will refuse to start, making stealing your car much more difficult.
Unlike old-style keys the modern transponder key chips aren't in the lock, but instead are placed in a separate area inside the key. When you insert your key into the ignition the radio signal will be sent to the transponder. If the code is correct, it will match the immobilizer in your car and the vehicle can be started. In essence, modern keys need to be properly programmed in order to work correctly.
While you can sometimes reprogram your own keys to your car, this process can be extremely risky and should be left to the professionals. It's not common for a novice to try this and discover that the key doesn't work correctly or harms the immobilizer system inside your vehicle. A reputable locksmith or dealer in the field has experience in these situations and be able to assist you in the most efficient way.
In addition, the effectiveness of many advanced anti-theft devices is dependent on the correct programming of your keys. It is recommended that you get your keys reprogrammed right away after you have lost them or misplaced them to ensure that thieves will not be able to gain access to your vehicle.
Personalized key programming provides a myriad of benefits to car owners in Philadelphia, including enhanced security and convenience. Nonstop Locksmith 24/7 can help you protect your vehicle against theft and unauthorised use. Contact them today for more about programming your car keys.
Getting Started
As the name suggests car key programming is a process of synchronizing a car's key with a vehicle so that the car recognizes it as being authorized. When the key is inserted into the vehicle, it transmits an electronic serial number to the computer system onboard. This allows the vehicle to be unlocked. This is a great way to prevent auto theft, because if a key for a car is not programmed properly it will not allow the vehicle start.
You have a few choices to get your keys programmed. One option is to visit your local dealer or manufacturer. However, these options are often costly and take a significant amount of time. Alternately, you could choose to work with an auto locksmith professional. They will have the right tools and knowledge needed to program any type of car key, from the most recent smart key to the oldest remote key. They will also be able to work quickly, which can be crucial in a situation of emergency.
Some people try to change the programming of their car keys on their own but this isn't a good idea. It is difficult to determine which of the various methods work, and it is easy to commit mistakes that could cause damage to the onboard computer system. In addition some of the tools used in the reprogramming of cars are very sophisticated and expensive which makes them difficult to use for a typical person.
Another thing to keep in mind is that, depending on the vehicle, it's sometimes impossible to reprogram a stolen or lost key. The original key has an electronic chip that is linked to specific information about the vehicle. Reprogramming a stolen or lost key won't alter the information it is tied to, so the vehicle won't recognize it as an authorized.
If can a locksmith reprogram a car computer looking for a new car you should think about getting it programmed with a transponder key as soon as you can. This will make your new car as secure as it can be, and is a lot less expensive than replacing the key that was lost.