While transponder keys offer an effective means of vehicle antitheft protection, with any technological features, issues are bound to arise. Since most vehicles nowadays are being manufactured with more sophisticated and modern keyless entry systems, vehicles with transponder keys are more likely to be older models. As these vehicles and their components wear down over time, problems are more likely to develop. If you find yourself with one of these problems on your hands, you may assume that you need to phone a dealership or mechanic.
However, you can save time, money, and aggravation by trusting a qualified professional locksmith to do the work. An automotive locksmith specialist can perform a full range of transponder key services at a fraction of the price of the other options. Transponder keys provide effective anti-theft technology that has been trusted for many years since they were created. However, like any form of technology, problems can arise. If you’re like most people, may not think about your vehicle’s key much until a problem develops. But it’s important to be on the lookout for signs of trouble to prevent a minor issue from becoming a major one.
Does Your Vehicle Operate Using a Transponder Key?
First, let’s examine the definition of what exactly a transponder key is. The term “transponder” is a combination of “transmitter” and “responder,” giving us a clue as to the function of these keys. Transponder keys are named for the microchip that they have, which is embedded in every key fob (the plastic head of the key). When you insert your key into the lock with the intention of powering on your vehicle
Transponder chip keys offer a great deal of convenience and security protection at an affordable cost, which is why they were so common for so many years before the advent of keyless entry systems. Many vehicles on the road still use transponder keys. While transponder key systems have many benefits, problems can and do occasionally arise, especially as these vehicles age.
Transponder Key Problems & Solutions
Key Gets Lost or Stolen
Most people will set their keys down and forget where they left them or drop them from their pocket at some time during the course of their life. Usually, you’re able to retrace your steps and find them again. However, occasionally it turns out your vehicle key is truly lost or has been stolen. In these situations, you should first determine whether you have a spare key somewhere. If that’s not the case, you can call in a 24/7 automotive locksmith, such as Locksmith Marietta, LLC.
Transponder Chip Damage
Damage to a transponder chip can make it operate only intermittently or even stop working at all. In these cases, the transponder key will most likely need to be entirely replaced. Damage can occur in one of several ways, whether it’s accidentally stepping on your key, dropping it from a high height, or another cause. Damage may or may not be apparent from the outside.
Damage to Ignition Lock
On the opposite side of the equation, your ignition lock can also wear down over time. This is especially true if dirt or debris gets into the lock cylinder, or if the key is bent or warped in any way. If this happens, your key may not even fit in the lock. This would require the ignition cylinder to be replaced by an automotive locksmith. It’s not always possible to see problems with your ignition lock from the outside because most of the parts are internal. If you inspect your key and see no damage, it may be a problem with the lock instead.
An Issue with the Wiring
The ignition cylinder in a keyed vehicle connects to a switch which leads to wires that are attached to your ignition system. This is what allows the signal to be sent from your key to your engine. If a problem develops anywhere along this process, your transponder key may no longer be able to communicate with your engine. Depending on the extent of the issue, an automotive locksmith may determine that the unit needs to be completely replaced.
The Key Needs Reprogramming
If your transponder key is new and it’s not working with your vehicle, there could be a programming error at fault. If you used an inexperienced locksmith or auto services company to have your transponder key programmed, the technician might have made a mistake. It happens frequently. To ensure that your transponder key is properly programmed, call a professional locksmith with a good rating.
Your Transponder Key is Locked
A final issue that can arise occurs only if you’ve purchased a so-called refurbished transponder key online. These are available all over the place, but unfortunately, many of the sellers are scam artists or are not aware that the keys that they are selling are flawed. With some types of transponder keys for certain makes of vehicles, especially high-security vehicles, once the transponder key is initially programmed to match one vehicle, it cannot be reprogrammed. It’s essentially “locked” and worthless. That’s why it’s important to only trust professional lock providers with transponder key services to ensure you’re getting the real deal and not wasting your money and time.
Marietta, GA Locksmith Transponder Key Duplication & Programming
When it comes time for an automotive lock and security professional to assist you with your transponder key needs. Transponder key services are only a fraction of what our skilled and trained locksmiths are capable of dealing with. Locked out of your truck? Unsure of where you set your keys down? Had your keys snatched out of your pocket on your way to the parking garage? Don’t panic or get frustrated. Call Locksmith Marietta, LLC! Car lockouts are the most common locksmith-related incidents we come across. Most of the clients who come to us in their time of need do so because they are experiencing an automotive lock, key, or security issue that needs immediate attention. Our fully mobile local locksmiths can get the job done right every time at the lowest price in town.
Visit the source article: Solutions to Common Transponder Key Problems
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