Why Get Your Car Key Programmed?
Many people should have their car key programmed. You may have to reprogram your remote when you have children who press the button too often or if you've lost your keys.
Some dealerships and auto locksmiths have special equipment to do this. They can also clone keys that are already in use when it's possible.
Transponder Keys
A transponder keys is a different term used to describe an electronic car key. It is often referred to a chip key or a smart key. Transponder keys have an embedded microchip that can store and transmit data. This can help prevent your vehicle being stolen. The microchip transmits an unique identification code every time the ignition is turned. Once the ID code matches that in your car's computer the immobilizer can be disabled, and your engine will begin to run.
This is a more advanced security option than non-transponder keys, that do not have chips inside and are not compatible with all modern anti-theft systems for cars. Transponder chips were introduced to cut down on car thefts. They have been a success - car thefts have dropped substantially since their introduction.
When the key is inserted into an ignition the small antenna known as an inductive coil on the transponder on the car key will be powered up. The transponder will then transmit an radio frequency signal that has an individual "password" to your vehicle's anti-theft system. If the password is correct the car will turn off the immobilizer and allow you to start the vehicle.
If the password isn't correct, the immobilizer will remain active and the engine will not start. This is a great method to deter thieves from taking your car because even there is a chance that a duplicate key might be created, the thief won't be able to trick your vehicle into starting.
Transponder keys cannot be used with mechanical keys. These kinds of keys for cars function by physically moving door lock mechanisms or the cylinder that controls the ignition like GM's VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) system which requires the right amount of resistance in order to turn the cylinder.
The traditional keys that are not transponder-compatible are still able to be copied at an locksmith, however the thief will have to manually move the locks in order to start the engine. They will likely require a transponder key programming device to accomplish this. This is why it is imperative that you should always call a professional locksmith, like Pop-A-Lock, when you require a new car key or transponder cut.
Electronic Key Fobs
A key fob transmits an indication to activate the locking system of your car, which allows you to unlock your door and get into your vehicle. Based on the features of the model you can also control your trunk alarm and trunk. The microchip on the fob sends out codes that are then read by the receiver. The code is associated with a particular frequency and, if the reader detects that frequency, it sends an instruction for the lock to function.
If you're using fobs for commercial purposes it is possible to integrate it with an existing security system. This can add additional levels of security. Fobs are immediately blocked when they're lost or stolen providing an additional layer of security to a business. A key might be dropped from an office desk in an office that is crowded and picked up without permission. Fobs are also cloned by creating copies that are not authorized to be floating around that have your security codes, making your car vulnerable to unauthorized access.
Fobs are extremely convenient and can be used to open your doors without the need for keys like a traditional one. Programming fobs requires some technical know-how however, it is not too difficult for the average person to do on their own. Fobs can be programmed using a specific tool or following the instructions in the vehicle's user manual.
The procedure for reprogramming your key fob is the same for most models. You can find more detailed details about your specific model in your owner's guide or on the manufacturer's site. However it is crucial to keep in mind that these steps might not be applicable to all models, and if you experience difficulties, it might be worth consulting your dealer or calling an expert locksmith.
Start by getting in the driver's chair and holding the key fob that you want to reprogram in your hands. Make sure your door is locked and you don't have any other keys in your ignition. Press and hold the fob's lock for several seconds until you hear the chime, or the sound of the locks revolving. This means you are in program mode. Repeat these steps as necessary to program other fobs.
Enhanced Security
With transponder keys, car owners enjoy a different layer of security that isn't always available with traditional key fobs. Thieves using a transponder car key aren't likely to be able to steal your vehicle since the chip inside the key will only be able to recognize the correct code and match it with the immobilizer system inside your vehicle. If it does not, the vehicle will not start which makes it harder to steal.
Unlike old-style keys the modern transponder key chips are not in the lock itself, but are placed in a separate area inside the key. When you insert your key into the ignition, a radio signal is transmitted to the transponder. If the code is correct it will match the immobilizer of your vehicle, and the car can be started. Modern keys must be programmed correctly to work.
While it is possible to modify your own car keys, this procedure can be extremely risky and should always be left to experts. Untrained individuals frequently find that their keys do not work correctly or damages the immobilizer inside your vehicle when they attempt this. A reputable car dealer or locksmith will have experience with these situations and will be able to assist you in the most efficient way.
Beyond this, many advanced anti-theft systems rely on the correct programming of your keys to function effectively. This means that you need to have your keys reprogrammed as soon as you lose or misplace them to ensure that they will be unable to gain access to your vehicle.
The benefits of personalized key programming for owners of cars in Philadelphia are increased convenience and peace-of-mind. If you're interested in taking advantage of the extra security this technology provides, reach out to Nonstop Locksmith 24/7 today and see how they can help safeguard your vehicle from theft and unauthorised use. Key programming for your car is the first step to protect yourself from these issues So don't delay in contacting them today.
Getting Started
Car key programming, as the name suggests is the process of synchronizing an authorized car key to the vehicle. When the key is put into the vehicle, it transmits a serial number electronically to the computer system onboard. This allows the vehicle to be unlocked. It is considered to be a helpful method to prevent theft of autos since if the car's key is not properly programmed the key won't allow the car to start.
There are a variety of options available for getting your car keys programmed including going to the local dealership or to your vehicle manufacturer. However they are usually expensive and require a considerable amount of time. You can also go to an auto locksmith. They will have all the tools and expertise needed to program any car key, whether it's a new smart key or the oldest remote key. They are also able to work quickly, which can be vital in an emergency car key cut and program situation.
Some people attempt to change the programming of their car keys on their own however this isn't a good idea. It's difficult to know which of the numerous methods will work and it is easy to make mistakes that could cause damage to the computer system onboard. A lot of the tools used for reprogramming vehicles are costly and technologically advanced, making them difficult for the average person to use.
Another thing to take into consideration is that, depending on the vehicle, it's often impossible to reprogram a lost or stolen key. The original key contains an embedded microchip that is connected to specific information about the vehicle. Reprogramming a key that has been stolen or lost does not alter any of the information associated with it. The vehicle will therefore not recognize it as authorized.
If you're shopping for a new vehicle, you should consider having the transponder key programmed in the earliest time possible. This can make your new car as secure as it can be and is a lot less expensive than replacing keys that have been lost.