Transponder Key Problems

Transponder keys are arguably one of the best things to happen to the modern car industry. While faster engines and fancier wheel rims might seem more appealing to some, the ability to keep your automotive vehicle safe from theft also highly rated among consumers. Transponder keys not only help prevent car theft, they allow you to unlock and even start your car from a remote location like inside your house or from a parking lot or garage. It’s virtually impossible to copy transponder keys so crooks almost never bother. These specialized car keys also make hot wiring obsolete and this factor alone is worth the extra cost of having and maintaining them. Almost all cars made after 1995 use transponder keys so if you drive a late model car, truck or SUV you are using them now.

What transponder keys are

To transpond means to transmit and that’s what this key does; it sends or transmits a radio signal to your car’s onboard computer. How does the car know to accept the signal sent by your transponder key? Each key is carefully programmed so that the signals match. A computer chip is embedded in the head of each transponder key. The body of the key still looks like any other key with its grooves and notches. Even without the computer chip your key will still open the car door and trunk. But to start the car, your chip must be present and matched to your car.

So, there are problems?

People tend to throw keys. We throw them onto table tops, we drop them on floors or pavement, we toss them onto shelves or we toss them to each other. Dogs and kids love keys; they are fun to play with as they jingle-jangle on the key ring. If you should happen to drop your transponder keys in a parking lot, you would scoop them up fast in order to get out of the way of incoming cars. What you might not see is the that they chip has fallen out and is still lying on the asphalt.

Key breakage is another problem. Keys can snap off in the lock and often this results in: 1) a need for key extraction 2) the need for key duplication and 3) the need for key programming.

Other problems

Key loss is not limited to transponder keys but since these transponders are so expensive, and difficult to duplicate, their absence is felt all the more. Loss can be due to outright theft, human error, breakage or misplacement. Age, wear and tear can also play a big role in transponder key problems. Over time and use, the key stops working or works sporadically. Key replacement is needed and this gets back to typically high cost and big hassle.

Why are transponder keys so costly to copy?

The typical method of duplicating your transponder key is to go through an authorized car dealer. Key copies can run into the several hundred dollar range and that doesn’t include the cost of towing your vehicle into the shop so that the car’s computer and your new key can have their signals matched. Not only is the process somewhat involved but the exclusive nature of the service allows for a higher price tag. When it comes to car theft, this high cost and extra bother is a plus. Thieves and crooks don’t have the money or time to go through this process but when the key breaks or is lost, the above burdens are on you!

The solution!

Do you have to go through your car dealership to replace your transponder key? No! You can work with a full service automotive locksmith like the ones we have in our shop or if you don’t live in the area, you can find one near you. The transponder key made by an experienced lock professional will be every bit as authentic as the one made by your dealership. The main difference is in cost to you and in convenience. Locksmith prices will be a mere fraction of what the dealer’s charge and that money savings is also amplified by the fact that no towing is ever needed as most locksmith pros are mobile and will come to you. This brings us to the next major difference; convenience. When an experienced automotive locksmith duplicates or programs your transponder key, all that is needed is an appointment and proximity to your car. You never have to waste time sitting in a service area waiting room or to make arrangements to pick up your vehicle. The mobile process is fast, simple and very affordable. Many shops including ours offer same day service and after hours appointments for those times when replacing a key is urgent.

Last words

Overall, transponder keys are worth having. They keep your car safe from thieves while allowing you added convenience and protection. When they break, become lost, or stop working, get them serviced or replaced the smart way; use your local automotive locksmith and get on with your busy, driving schedule. You work hard for your money and your time is valuable so put them both to good use by working with a trusted locksmith professional!