Why Get Your Car Key Programmed?
Many people need to get their car keys programmed. You may need to re-program your remote when you have children who frequently press the button or if you've lost your keys.
Some dealerships and auto locksmiths have the tools needed to complete this task. They can also clone your key if possible.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys are also known as chip keys or smart key. Transponder keys have a microchip that can store and transmit data, which helps protect your vehicle from being stolen. The microchip transmits a unique identification code every when the key is turned in the ignition. When the ID code matches the code in your car's computer, the immobilizer can be disabled, and your engine will begin to run.
This is a far more advanced security option than non-transponder keys which do not contain chips inside and are not compatible with the majority of modern anti-theft devices in cars. Transponder chips were introduced to cut down on car thefts. They have proven to be a huge success - car thefts have dropped substantially since their introduction.
When the key is put into an ignition an antenna that is small, called an inductive coil on the transponder on the car key will be powered up. The transponder then transmits the radio frequency signal along with a unique "password" to the anti-theft system of your vehicle. If the password is correct, the car will turn off the immobilizer, allowing you to start your vehicle.
If the password isn't correct, the immobilizer will remain active and the engine will not start. This is an excellent way to avoid theft of your vehicle because even if the key could be duplicated, thieves won't have access to the correct code to fool your car into getting started.
The only drawback to transponder keys is that it is not compatible with mechanical keys that are not transponder. These types of car keys function by physically moving lock mechanisms on doors or the cylinder of ignition like the VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) system that requires the correct amount of resistance to turn the cylinder.
The traditional keys that are not transponder-compatible can still be copied at an locksmith, however the person who steals them will need to manually move the locks in order to start the engine. He will likely require a transponder key programming device to do this. It is for this reason that you should always consult a professional locksmith like Pop-Alock, if you require a new car key or transponder cut.
Electronic Key Fobs
A key fob transmits a signal to activate the locking system in your car, which allows you to unlock your door and get into your car. It can also control the alarm and trunk, depending on your model's features. Fobs contain 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 an instruction to your lock to operate.
If you're using a fob within commercial settings, they can be integrated into a security system to provide an additional layer of security. Fobs are instantly blocked when they are lost or stolen providing an additional layer of security for a business. A key could fall from an office desk in a busy office and be picked up uninvited. Fobs can also be cloned, creating unauthorized copies floating around with your security codes, making your car vulnerable to unauthorised access.
programming a car key can be used as a convenient way to unlock your door without requiring an actual key. It isn't difficult for an average person to program a fob, even though it requires some knowledge of technology. Fobs can be programmed by using a special tool or by following the instructions found in the user manual.
The key fob reprogramming process is similar across most models, and you will often find detailed information about your model in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's website. It is important to keep in mind that these steps may not work on all models. If you have any problems, you should consult your dealer or call an locksmith.
Start by getting in the driver's seat, and then holding the key fob that you want to reprogram in your hands. Make sure your door is closed and that there aren't any other keys in the ignition. Press and hold the lock button on your fob until you hear a chime or sound of the locks cycling, which indicates that you've entered the program mode. Then, repeat these steps to program additional fobs as needed until all have been reprogrammed.
Enhanced Security
Transponder keys offer an additional layer of security not always available with traditional key fobs. Thieves using transponder keys for car keys aren't likely to steal your vehicle because the chip inside the key will only recognize the correct code and match it to the immobilizer in your vehicle. If it does not, the vehicle will not start which makes it harder to steal.
Contrary to the old-fashioned keys the modern transponder key chips are not in the lock itself, but are located in a special part of 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 with the immobilizer on your vehicle, and the car can be started. Essentially, modern keys have to be programmed correctly in order to work correctly.
While you may be able to reprogram car keys on your own, this procedure is extremely risky and should only be done by professionals. Untrained people often discover that their keys do not function properly or damage the immobilizer on the car when they attempt this. A professional locksmith or dealer in the field will have experience in these situations and will be able to assist you in the most efficient manner.
In addition, the effectiveness of a variety of advanced anti-theft devices is contingent on the correct programming of your keys. This means that you need to update your keys immediately after you lose or lose them in order to ensure that they won't be able to gain access to your vehicle.
Personalized key programming provides a myriad of advantages to car owners living in Philadelphia with added security and convenience. Nonstop Locksmith 24/7 can help you safeguard your vehicle from theft and unauthorised use. Contact them today to learn more about programming your car keys.
Getting Started
Car key programming is, as the name implies, is the process of synchronizing an authorized car key to the vehicle. This means that once the key is inserted, it transmits an electronic serial number to the car's computer system that allows the car to be unlocked. It is a good way to stop auto theft as if a car key is not properly programmed it will not allow the vehicle to start.
There are a variety of options for getting your keys programmed. One option is to visit your local dealer or vehicle manufacturer. However, these options are often quite expensive, and can take a considerable amount of time. You can also visit an auto locksmith. They'll have the tools and know-how to program any type of car key, ranging from the latest smart key to the oldest remote keys. They are able to work fast, which is important in an urgent situation.
Some people attempt to change the programming of their car keys themselves, but this is a bad idea. It's hard to determine which of the many methods available actually work, and it's easy to make mistakes that could damage the car's onboard computer system. A lot of the tools used for reprogramming vehicles are costly and advanced, making them difficult for the average person to use.
A stolen or lost car key might not be be reprogrammed, depending on the vehicle you drive. This is because the original key is equipped with a unique microchip inside that is tied to specific information about the vehicle. Reprogramming a stolen or lost key will not alter the information tied to it which means that the vehicle won't recognize it as authorised.
If you're in the market for a new car you should consider getting the transponder key programmed as soon as you can. This will make your new vehicle as secure as it can be, and is much less expensive than replacing the key that was lost.