Why Get Your Car Key Programmed?
Many people should have their car keys programmed. If you have kids that press the button too many times or you've lost your keys then the remotes must be reprogrammed.
Some auto locksmiths and dealerships have the tools needed to accomplish this task. They also can clone your existing key if it's possible.
Transponder Keys
A transponder key is another name for an electronic car key. It is often referred to as chip keys or a smart key. Transponder keys are equipped with a microchip which can store and transmit information. This helps to protect your vehicle from theft. The microchip transmits an unique identification code every time the ignition is turned. When the ID code matches in the car's computer the immobilizer will be removed and your engine will start to run.
This is a more sophisticated security measure compared to non-transponder keys, which do not have a chip and is not compatible with the anti-theft systems of most modern cars. Transponder chips were introduced to decrease the number of car thefts, and they have been a success and the number of car thefts has decreased dramatically since their introduction.
The transponder of your car key will illuminate when the key is placed in the ignition. This tiny antenna, also known as an "inductive coil" is situated on the key. The transponder transmits an radio frequency signal that contains an unique "password". This is transmitted to the anti-theft system in your vehicle. If the password is correct the car will disable the immobilizer, which allows you to begin the vehicle.
If the password is wrong the immobilizer stays in effect and the engine will not start. This is a great method to prevent car thieves because even if a duplicate key can be created, the thief will not have the code to fool your car into running.
Transponder keys cannot be used with mechanical keys. They operate by physically adjusting locks on doors or the ignition cylinder. For example the VATS system from GM (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) is a system that requires the proper amount of resistance to turn the cylinder.
This traditional non-transponder key can be duplicated by the locksmith. However, the person who steals it will have to manually move locks in order to start the car and will require a transponder programming tool to do so. This is the reason that you should always contact a professional locksmith, like Pop-A-Lock, when you require a new car key or transponder cut.
Electronic Key Fobs
A key fob emits an alert to activate the locking system of your car, which allows you to unlock your door and enter your vehicle. It also lets you control the trunk alarm and alarm based on the model's features. Fobs have a microchip inside that transmits codes to the receiver, which interprets them. The code corresponds to an exact frequency. If the reader detects this frequency, it will issue a command to your lock.
If you're using a fob within a commercial environment, they can be integrated into your existing security system to add an additional layer of security. Fobs are immediately blocked when they are lost or stolen providing an additional layer of security to businesses. A key might fall off a desk in an office that is crowded and taken home without permission. Fobs can also be copied to create copies that are not authorized and contain your security codes. This leaves your vehicle vulnerable to intrusion by anyone else.
Fobs are extremely useful and can be used to unlock your doors without the need of keys like a traditional one. It isn't difficult for the average person to program a fob even although it requires some technical expertise. Fobs can be programmed using a special tool or by following the instructions in the vehicle's user manual.
The key fob reprogramming procedure is the same for most models. You can find detailed information on your 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 work for all models. If you have issues it may be worth consulting with your dealer or calling an locksmith.
Begin by getting in your driver's seat. Hold the key fob you want to program in your hand. Make sure the door is closed and that 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 turning, which indicates that you've entered the program mode. Repeat these steps as necessary to program other fobs.
Enhanced Security
With transponder keys, vehicle owners enjoy a different layer of security that isn't always present with traditional key fobs. Thieves who use transponder keys for car keys aren't likely to be able to steal your vehicle because the chip in the key can only identify its correct code and match it up with the immobilizer system inside your vehicle. If it does not, the vehicle will not start, making it more difficult to steal.
In contrast to old-fashioned keys, modern transponder key chips are not part of the lock itself, but are in a distinct area inside the key. When you insert the key into the ignition a radio signal is sent to the transponder. If the code is correct, it will match with the immobilizer on your vehicle, and the car can be started. Modern keys need to be programmed correctly in order to function properly.
Although it is possible to reprogram your car keys by yourself, this process is dangerous and should be handled only by professionals. It's not uncommon for an untrained individual to attempt this and find that the key doesn't function correctly or damages the immobilizer system in your vehicle. A professional car locksmith or dealer will have plenty of experience in these types of situations and will be able to assist you out in the most efficient manner possible.
In addition, many advanced anti-theft systems rely on the correct programming of your keys to operate effectively. You should have your keys reprogrammed immediately after you lose them or have lost them to ensure that thieves will not be able access your vehicle.
The benefits of personalised key programming for car owners in Philadelphia include enhanced convenience and peace-of-mind. If you're looking to take advantage of the added security this technology offers you, contact Nonstop Locksmith 24/7 today and discover how they can protect your vehicle from thefts and unauthorized usage. Contact them today for more about car key programming.
Getting Started
Car key programming, as the name suggests is the process of synchronising an authorized car key with the vehicle. This means that when the key is inserted it transmits an electronic serial number to the vehicle's onboard computer system which then allows the car to be unlocked. It is considered to be a helpful method to prevent theft of autos as if the car key is not programmed correctly, it will not allow the vehicle to start.
There are a variety of options to program your keys. One is to visit your local dealer or vehicle manufacturer. These options can be expensive and take a lot of time. Alternately, car keys reprogramming could choose to hire an experienced auto locksmith. They'll have all the tools and experience needed to program any car key, regardless of whether it's a new smart key or the earliest remote key. They will also be able to work quickly, which could be important in a crisis.
Some people will try to reprogram their car keys themselves, but this is a bad idea. It's difficult to determine which of the numerous methods available will actually work, and it's very easy to make mistakes that could harm the car's onboard computer system. Additionally some of the tools used in programming cars are extremely sophisticated and expensive which makes them difficult to use by a common person.
Another thing to keep in mind is that, based on the vehicle, it's sometimes impossible to reprogram a lost or stolen key. The original key is equipped with an electronic chip that is connected to specific vehicle information. Reprogramming a key that was lost or stolen does not alter the details associated with it. The vehicle will not recognize it as authorized.
If you are looking to purchase a new vehicle it is recommended that you get its transponder key programmed as early as you can. This will make your new car as secure as it can be and is much less expensive than replacing a lost key.