Why Get Your Car Key Programmed?
Many people require their car key 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 equipment needed to do this. They can also copy your key if possible.
Transponder Keys
A transponder key is another name for an electronic car key, also sometimes referred to as chip keys or a smart key. Transponder keys have microchips that store and transmit data. This helps prevent your vehicle being stolen. The microchip transmits a unique identification code every time the ignition is turned. When the ID code matches the one in the car's computer, the immobilizer can be disabled and the engine will start.
This is a better security measure when compared to a non-transponder key, which does not include a chip and is not compatible with the anti-theft system in the majority of modern vehicles. Transponder chips are being introduced to reduce car thefts. They have proven to be an enormous success.
When the key is inserted into an ignition, a small antenna called an inductive coil that is located on the transponder of your car key will power up. The transponder then sends out the radio frequency signal which contains the unique "password". This is transmitted to the anti-theft system of your vehicle. If the password is correct the car will disable the immobilizer, allowing you to start your vehicle.
If the password is incorrect the immobilizer will remain in effect and the engine will not start. This is an excellent way to protect your car from theft because even if the key is duplicated, a thief cannot access the correct code to fool your car into starting.
The only drawback to transponder keys is that it is not compatible with mechanical non-transponder keys. The keys for cars operate by physically adjusting lock mechanisms on doors or the ignition cylinder. For example the VATS system of GM (Vehicle Anti-Theft System), which requires the proper amount of resistance to turn the cylinder.
The traditional keys that are not transponder-compatible can still be copied at a locksmith, but the thief will have to manually move the locks in order to start the engine. He will likely need a special transponder-programming device to do so. This is why it is imperative 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, allowing you to unlock your door and get into your car. It can also 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 a certain frequency, and if the reader detects that frequency, it sends an instruction for the lock to start working.
If you are using a fob for commercial purposes it is possible to integrate it with a security system already in place. This will add extra levels of security. Fobs are able to be immediately blocked in the event of theft or loss as an added security measure in a business where keys could drop off the desk and be picked up by unauthorised individuals. Fobs can also be cloned to create copies that are not authorized and contain your security codes. This leaves your vehicle vulnerable to intrusion by anyone else.
Fobs are highly convenient and can be used to unlock your doors without the need of keys like a traditional one. The process of programming fobs requires some knowledge of the technical but is not difficult for the average person to accomplish on their own. Fobs can be programmed using a specific tool or by following the instructions in the vehicle's user manual.
The process of reprogramming the key fob is similar to the process used by all models, and you can often find detailed information about your particular model in the owner's manual or on the manufacturer's site. It is important to keep in mind that these steps might not work on all models. If you have any problems, you should consult your dealer or an locksmith.
Start by getting in the driver's seat, and then holding the key fob you wish to reprogram in your hands. Make sure your door is closed and that there are no other keys in the ignition. Press and hold the button for locking your fob until you hear a chime or the sound of the locks turning, which indicates that you've entered program mode. Next, repeat these steps to program additional fobs as needed until all of them have been programmed.
Enhanced Security
Transponder keys offer an additional layer of security not always found in traditional key fobs. Thieves who use a transponder car key aren't likely to steal your vehicle because the chip inside the key will only be able to recognize its proper code and match it up with the immobilizer system in your vehicle. If it doesn't, the vehicle will not start which makes it harder to steal.
Modern transponder keys do not contain a chip inside the lock, but in a specific part of the key. When you insert your key into the ignition and turn it on, a radio signal is transmitted to the transponder. If the code is correct, it will match the correct one in your vehicle's immobilizer and the car will be permitted to start. Modern keys must be programmed correctly to function properly.
While you can sometimes modify your own keys to your car, this process can be extremely risky and should be left to experts. It's not common for a novice to attempt this, only to find that the key isn't working correctly or harms the immobilizer system inside your vehicle. A professional locksmith for cars or dealer will have a lot of experience dealing with these kinds of situations and will be able to help you out in the most efficient way possible.
Furthermore, the efficiency of many advanced anti-theft devices is dependent on the proper programming of your key. It is recommended that you have your keys reprogrammed immediately after you lose them or misplaced them to ensure that thieves won't be able to gain access to your vehicle.
Personalized key programming provides a myriad of advantages to car owners in Philadelphia, including enhanced convenience and peace of mind. If you're interested in taking advantage of the additional security this technology provides contact Nonstop Locksmith 24/7 today and discover how they can ensure your car is safe from theft and unauthorised use. Contact them today to find out more about car key programming.
Getting Started
As the name suggests car key programming is the process of synchronising a car key with a vehicle, so that the car can recognize it as authorised. When the key is put in, it transmits an electronic serial number to the car's computer system onboard, which allows the car to be unlocked. It's a good method to protect yourself from theft because if a key for a car isn't programmed correctly, it won't allow the vehicle start.
There are several options available for getting your car keys programed, such as visiting the local dealership or to your vehicle manufacturer. These options can be expensive and take a lot of time. You can also visit an auto locksmith. They'll have the tools and know-how to program any type of car key, from the most recent smart key to the oldest remote key. They will be able to perform their work fast, which is important in an emergency.
Some people will try to reprogram their car keys by themselves but this is a bad idea. It's hard to determine which of the numerous methods available actually work, and it's easy to make mistakes that can damage the car's onboard computer system. A lot of the tools used for reprogramming vehicles are expensive and technologically advanced which makes them difficult for the average person to use.
Another thing to consider is that, based on the vehicle, it's impossible to reprogram a stolen or lost key. This is because the original key has a distinct microchip in it that is linked to specific information about the vehicle. Reprogramming a stolen or lost key will not alter the information it is tied to, so the vehicle won't recognize it as authorized.
If you're in the market for a new car you should consider having it transponder key programmed as soon as possible. This will ensure that your new car is as secure as possible and is a lot cheaper than replacing a lost key.