Why Get Your Car Key Programmed?
Many people need their keys programmed for their cars. If you have children who press the button too many times or you've lost your keys then the remotes must be reprogrammed.
Some dealerships and auto locksmiths have special equipment for this. They can also copy keys that are already in use in the event that it is 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 contain a microchip that can store and send information, which can help prevent your vehicle from being stolen. The microchip transmits a unique identification code every time the key in the ignition is turned. If the ID code matches the code in the car's computer, the immobilizer is disabled and your engine will start.
This is a more advanced security measure than non-transponder keys, which do not contain a chip inside and are not compatible with most modern anti-theft systems for cars. Transponder chips are being used to decrease car thefts. They have proven to be hugely successful.
When the key is put into an ignition, a small antenna called an inductive coil on the transponder on the car key will be powered up. The transponder then transmits a radio frequency signal containing a unique "password". This is sent to the anti-theft system of your vehicle. If the password is correct, the car will turn off its immobilizer and allow you to start the engine.
If the password is incorrect, the immobilizer will remain in place and the car will not start. This is a great method to protect your car from theft because even if the code could be duplicated, thieves will not have access to the correct code to fool your car into getting started.
Transponder keys can't be used with mechanical keys. These car keys work by physically adjusting lock mechanisms on doors or the ignition cylinder. For instance the VATS system from GM (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) is a system that requires the proper amount of resistance to turn the cylinder.
The non-transponder keys of the past can be copied by locksmiths, but the thief will have to manually move the locks to start the engine and will likely need a special transponder programming device to do this. This is why it is imperative that you should always call an expert locksmith, like Pop-A-Lock, when you require a new car key or transponder cut.
Electronic Key Fobs
A key fob emits a signal to activate the locking system of your car, which allows you to unlock your door and enter your car. It also lets you control the alarm and trunk, depending on your model's features. The microchip inside the fob sends out codes that are then processed by the receiver. The code corresponds to an exact frequency. If the reader detects this frequency, it will issue an instruction to your lock.
If you're using a fob within a commercial environment they can be incorporated into a security system to add additional levels of protection. Fobs are instantly blocked when they're lost or stolen and add an additional layer of security for a business. A key could fall from an office desk in an office that is crowded and taken home uninvited. Fobs are also cloned by creating copies that are not authorized to be floating around that have your security codes, leaving your car vulnerable to an unauthorized access.
Fobs can be used as a convenient way to unlock your door without needing an actual key. Programming a fob requires some knowledge of the technical however, it is not too difficult for an average person to complete on their own. Fobs can be programmed by using a special tool or following the instructions in the vehicle's user manual.
The process of reprogramming the key fob is the same for most models. You can find detailed information about your particular model in your owner's guide or on the manufacturer's website. However it is crucial to note that these steps may not work for all models, and if you encounter difficulties you might consider consulting with your dealer or calling an expert locksmith.
Begin by stepping into the driver's chair and holding the key fob you want to reprogram in your hands. Make sure your door is locked and that there aren't any other keys in your ignition. Press and hold the lock button on your fob until you hear a chime, or the sound of the locks revolving and then you've entered the program mode. Repeat these steps as necessary to program other fobs.
Enhanced Security
With transponder keys, car owners have another layer of security that's not always available with traditional key fobs. Transponder keys are less likely to be taken by thieves since the chip will only match the code to the immobilizer in your vehicle. If it does not then the car will not start which makes it harder to steal.
Unlike old-style keys the modern transponder key chips aren't in the lock itself but are placed in a separate area 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 your vehicle's immobilizer and the car will be permitted to start. Modern keys need to be programmed correctly in order to work.
Although you may be able to reprogram your own keys to your car, this process can be extremely risky and should always be left to the professionals. It's not uncommon for an untrained individual to attempt this and find that the key doesn't function properly or that it actually causes damage to the immobilizer system of your vehicle. A professional car locksmith or dealer will have a lot of experience in these types of situations and will be able to assist you out efficiently possible.
In addition, many advanced anti-theft systems rely on the proper programming of your key to operate effectively. This means that you need to change your keys when you lose or lose them to ensure that they won't be able to gain access to your vehicle.
The advantages of personalized key programming for motorists in Philadelphia include increased security and convenience. If you're interested in taking advantage of the additional security this technology offers you, contact Nonstop Locksmith 24/7 today and discover how they can protect your vehicle from thefts and unauthorised use. Contact them today for more about programming your car keys.
Getting Started
As the name suggests, car key programming is the process of synchronizing a car key with a vehicle so that the car recognises 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. It is thought as a beneficial method to prevent theft of autos because if the key is not programmed correctly the key will not allow the vehicle to start.
There are a variety of options to get your car keys programmed, for instance, visiting your local dealership or your vehicle manufacturer. However they are usually costly and take a significant amount of time. Alternately, you could choose to go to a professional auto locksmith. They will have the right tools and the knowledge required to program any type of car key, from the most recent smart key to the oldest remote keys. They are able to work fast, which is important in a time of need.
Some people may decide to try and change the programming of their car keys however this isn't an ideal option. It's difficult to determine which of the various methods that are available will actually work, and it's very easy to make mistakes that could damage the car's computer system. Many of the tools to reprogramme vehicles are expensive and technologically advanced making them difficult for the average user to use.
A lost or stolen car key may not be able to be reprogrammed, based on your vehicle. This is because the original key has a unique microchip in it which is connected to specific information about the vehicle. Reprogramming an original key that has been lost or stolen does not alter any of the details associated with it. The vehicle will therefore not recognize it as a valid key.
If automotive key programming shopping for a new car, you should consider having it transponder key programmed as soon as possible. This will ensure that your new vehicle is as secure as possible and is a lot cheaper than replacing a stolen key.