Why Get Your Car Key Programmed? Many people require their keys for their car programmed. If you have children who press the button too many times or you've lost your keys, then your remotes require reprogramming. Some auto locksmiths and dealerships have special equipment for this. They can also duplicate an existing key, if that's possible. Transponder Keys A transponder key is another name for an electronic car key. It is often referred to as chip keys or smart key. Transponder keys have an embedded microchip that can store and send information, which helps to protect your vehicle from being stolen. The microchip sends out a unique identification code every time the key is inserted into the ignition. Once the ID code matches the code in your car's computer the immobilizer is disabled and your engine will start. This is a more sophisticated security method than non-transponder keys that do not have chips inside and are not compatible with most modern anti-theft systems for cars. Transponder chips were introduced to reduce the number of car thefts. They have proven to be a huge success - car thefts have dropped substantially since their introduction. When the key is inserted into an ignition an antenna that is small, called an inductive coil on the transponder on the car key will power up. The transponder transmits an radio frequency signal that contains the unique "password". This is sent to the anti-theft system in your vehicle. If the password is correct, the vehicle will disable its immobilizer and allow you to start the engine. If the password is incorrect the immobilizer will remain active and the engine will not start. This is a great way to protect your car from theft because even if the code is duplicated, thieves won't have access to the correct code to fool your car into beginning. The only downside to a transponder key is that it isn't compatible with mechanical non-transponder keys. The keys for cars operate by physically moving locks on doors or the ignition cylinder. For instance the VATS system from GM (Vehicle Anti-Theft System), which requires the correct amount of resistance to turn the cylinder. These traditional non-transponder keys are still able to be copied at an locksmith, however the criminal will have to manually move the locks to start the engine and will likely require a transponder key programming device to accomplish this. This is among the main reasons why it is advisable to call a professional locksmith for cars like Pop-A-Lock anytime you require a new transponder keys cut or a car key that has been programmed. Electronic Key Fobs A key fob emits a signal that activates your car's locking system, allowing you to unlock the door and access your vehicle. It can also control the trunk alarm and alarm according to your vehicle's features. The microchip inside the fob transmits codes that are then processed by the receiver. The code corresponds to a specific frequency and if the receiver detects that frequency, it sends an instruction for the lock to start working. If you're using a fob within a commercial environment they can be incorporated into an existing security system to provide additional layers of security. Fobs are immediately blocked if they are lost or stolen providing an additional layer of security to a business. A key might fall from the desk of a busy office and be taken away by someone who isn't invited. Fobs can also be copied by creating copies that are not authorized to be floating around with your security code, making your vehicle vulnerable to unauthorized access. Fobs are highly convenient and can be used to unlock your doors without the need for the traditional key. Programming a fob requires some technical knowledge however, it is not difficult for the average person to complete on their own. Fobs are typically programmed with an application that is specifically designed for this purpose or by following the instructions in the user manual for the vehicle. The process of reprogramming the key fob is the same for all models, and you can often find detailed information about your model in the owner's manual or on the website of the manufacturer. It is important to remember that these steps might not be applicable to all models. If you encounter any issues, consult your dealer or call a locksmith. Begin by stepping into the driver's seat, and then holding the key fob you'd like to reprogram into your hands. Make sure the door is shut and there aren't any other keys in the ignition. Press and hold the fob's lock for several seconds until you hear the chime or the sound of the locks cycling. This means you have entered program mode. Next, repeat these steps to program additional fobs until all of them have been programmed. Enhanced Security Transponder keys give car owners enjoy a different layer of security that's not always present with traditional key fobs. Thieves using a transponder car key aren't likely to steal your vehicle because the chip inside the key can only identify its proper code and match it to the immobilizer system inside your vehicle. If it fails to do this it will cause the vehicle to refuse to start, making the process of stealing your car that much more difficult. Modern transponder keys do not include a chip inside the lock, but instead inside a separate 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 with the correct one in your vehicle's immobilizer and the car will be allowed to begin. In essence, modern keys need to be programmed correctly for proper functioning. While you may be able to reprogram car keys yourself, this process is risky and should only be done by professionals. It's not unusual for someone who isn't trained to attempt this and find that the key doesn't work correctly or damages the immobilizer system in your vehicle. A professional locksmith for cars or dealer will have plenty of experience in these types of situations and can help you out in the most efficient way possible. In addition, many modern anti-theft systems rely on the proper programming of your key to function effectively. You should get your keys reprogrammed right away after you have lost them or have lost them to ensure that thieves won't be able access your vehicle. The advantages of personalized key programming for car owners in Philadelphia include increased comfort and peace of mind. Nonstop Locksmith 24/7 can help you safeguard your vehicle from theft and unauthorised use. Contact https://covolunteers.com/members/sundew9/activity/982172/ for more about programming your car keys. Getting Started The name implies car key programming is a method of synchronising a car key with a vehicle so that the car recognizes it as authorised. When the key is inserted, it transmits an electronic serial number to the vehicle's onboard computer system which then allows the car to unlock. It is considered to be a helpful method to prevent theft of autos because if the key isn't programmed correctly the key won't allow the car to start. There are a few options available for getting your car keys programmed, including going to your local dealership or your vehicle manufacturer. However, these options are often expensive and require a considerable amount of time. You can also go to an auto locksmith. They'll have all the tools and knowledge necessary to program any car key, whether it is the latest smart key or an older remote key. They will also be able to work quickly, which could be important in an emergency situation. Some people attempt to reprogramme their car keys themselves but this is a bad idea. 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 for reprogramming vehicles are costly and sophisticated which makes them difficult for the average user to use. Another thing to keep in mind is that, based on the vehicle, it's often not possible to reprogram a lost or stolen key. This is because the original key is equipped with a unique microchip which is connected to specific information about the vehicle. Reprogramming a key that was lost or stolen does not alter the information it contains. The vehicle will therefore not recognize it as authorized. If you're looking to purchase an automobile it is recommended that you get the transponder key programmed as soon as you can. This can make your new car as secure as it can be, and is a lot cheaper than replacing the key that was lost.