Why Get Your Car Key Programmed?
Many people require their car key programmed. You may have to reprogram your remote when you have children who frequently press the button or if you've lost keys.
Some auto locksmiths and dealerships have the equipment needed to accomplish this task. They also can clone your current key if possible.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also referred to as electronic car keys, chip keys or smart key. Transponder keys are equipped with an embedded microchip that can store and transmit data. This can help protect your vehicle from theft. The microchip sends out an identification code every time the key in the ignition is turned. If the ID code matches that in your car's computers, the immobilizer will be removed and your engine will begin to operate.
This is a more advanced security measure when compared to a non-transponder keys, which do have a chip, and is not compatible with the anti-theft system of the majority of modern automobiles. Transponder chips were introduced to cut down on car thefts, and they have proven successful as car thefts have decreased dramatically since their introduction.
The transponder of the car key will illuminate when the key is put in the ignition. This tiny antenna, also known as an "inductive coil" is located on the key. The transponder transmits a radio frequency signal containing an unique "password". This is sent to the anti-theft device of your vehicle. If the password is correct, your car will deactivate the immobilizer and allow you to start the vehicle.
If the password is wrong, the immobilizer remains active and the engine won't begin. This is a great way to prevent car theft since even if the key is duplicated, thieves will not have access to the correct code to trick your car into beginning.
Transponder keys cannot be used with mechanical keys. The keys for cars work by physically moving locks on doors or the ignition cylinder. For example the VATS system from GM (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) is a system that requires the right amount of resistance to turn the cylinder.
These traditional non-transponder keys can still be copied at an locksmith, however the thief will have to manually move the locks to start the engine and will likely need a special transponder programming device to accomplish this. It is for this reason that you should always consult a professional locksmith, such as Pop-A-Lock, if you need to have a new car key or transponder cut.
Electronic Key Fobs
A key fob emits a signal to activate the locking system in your car, which allows you to unlock your door and get into your vehicle. Based on the features of your model, you can also control your trunk alarm and trunk. Fobs are equipped with a microchip that transmits codes to the receiver, who then interprets them. The code corresponds to a certain frequency and, if the reader detects the frequency, it will send a command for your lock to function.
If you're using a fob within an office environment they can be incorporated into an existing security system to provide an additional layer of security. Fobs are able to be immediately blocked when they're stolen or lost as an added security feature in a place where a key might fall off the desk and be picked up by unauthorized individuals. Fobs can also be cloned to create unauthorized copies that contain your security codes. This makes your car vulnerable to theft by unauthorized persons.
Fobs can be used as a convenient way to unlock your door without requiring a traditional key. It isn't difficult for an average person to program a fob, even though it requires some technical knowledge. Fobs can be programmed by using a specific tool or by following instructions provided in the vehicle's user manual.
The process of reprogramming the key fob is the same for all models, and you can often find more detailed information about your model in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. However, it is important to keep in mind that these steps may not work for all models, and if you have issues it may be worth consulting with your dealer or calling an expert locksmith.
Begin by getting into your driver's seat. Hold the key fob you wish 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 revolving and then you've entered program mode. Next, repeat these steps to program additional fobs as needed until all of them have been changed.
Enhanced Security
With transponder keys, vehicle owners get another layer of security that isn't always present with traditional key fobs. Transponder keys are less likely to be stolen by thieves because the chip only matches the code with the immobilizer on your vehicle. If it fails to do so the vehicle will not be able to start, making the process of stealing your car that much more difficult.
Unlike old-style keys Modern transponder chip keys aren't in the lock, but instead are placed in a separate part of the key. When you insert the key into the ignition, a radio signal is transmitted to the transponder. If the code is correct, it will match with the correct one in the immobilizer of your vehicle and the car will be able to begin. In essence, modern keys need to be programmed correctly in order to work correctly.
Although you may be able to reprogram your own keys to your car, this process is extremely risky and should always be left to the professionals. It's not common for a novice to attempt this, only to find that the key isn't working correctly or causes damage to the immobilizer system of your vehicle. A reputable locksmith or dealer in the field will have experience with these situations and be capable of helping you in the most efficient manner.
In addition, many modern anti-theft devices rely on proper programming of your key to function effectively. It is recommended that you get your keys reprogrammed right away when you lose them or misplaced them to ensure that thieves won't be able access your vehicle.
Personalized key programming offers numerous benefits to car owners in Philadelphia with added security and convenience. If you're interested in taking advantage of the additional security this technology provides you, contact Nonstop Locksmith 24/7 today and find out how they can safeguard your vehicle from theft and unauthorized usage. Contact them today for more about programming your car keys.
Getting Started
Car key programming, as the name suggests is the process of synchronizing the authorized car keys with the vehicle. When the key is inserted, it transmits an electronic serial number to the vehicle's computer system that allows the car to unlock. It is a good way to protect yourself from theft because if a key for a car is not properly programmed it will not allow the vehicle to start.
There are several options for getting your keys programmed . One option is to visit your local dealer or vehicle manufacturer. However, these options are often expensive and require a considerable amount of time. Alternately, you could choose to work with an experienced auto locksmith. They will have the right tools and knowledge needed to program any kind of car key, from the latest smart key to the oldest remote keys. They will also be able work quickly, which could be crucial in an emergency situation.
Some people attempt to change the programming of their car keys on their own but this is a bad idea. It is difficult to determine which of the many methods will work and it is easy to commit mistakes, which could damage the onboard computer system. Many of the tools to reprogramme vehicles are expensive and technologically advanced making them difficult for the average person to use.
Another thing to keep in mind is that, based on the vehicle, it's sometimes impossible to reprogram a lost or stolen key. This is because the original key has a unique microchip which is connected to specific information on the vehicle. Reprogramming a lost or stolen key will not change the information tied to it which means that the vehicle won't recognize it as an authorized.
If you're looking for a new car, you should consider having the transponder key programmed as soon as you can. This will make your new vehicle as secure as it can be, and is a lot less expensive than replacing keys that have been lost.