Problems that Transponder Keys Can Have
Here are some common problems that can occur with the use of transponder chip keys, along with potential solutions. If you have any questions or concerns about your transponder keys, give a call to a locksmith. An expert locksmith, like those at 24 Hour Holly Springs Locksmith of Holly Springs, NC , is knowledgeable about all types of keys and may even be able to provide you with a solution over the phone. In the event that they need to come out and look at your vehicle and key, they will be able to diagnose the problem and whether it requires intervention from a mechanic.
Basics of Transponder Keys
A transponder is a special kind of car key that contains a chip in the plastic fob. When you insert a transponder key into the ignition, the engine sends a digital signal to the key that contains a code. To complete the circuit and make the engine start, the key must send the appropriate signal back. Think of transponder keys as being stealth agents. Transponder keys disable the vehicle’s immobilizer and allow it to start.
The blade, or metal part, of the key is damage-resist and will usually hold up through many years of use. If broken, this is usually the easiest part of the key to fix. The harder part to fix or replace is the chip inside of the key fob. Read on for more information about common transponder key problems and their potential solutions. A skilled locksmith can assist you with any problems you’re having regarding your transponder keys.
Common Transponder Key Problems
The Chip Gets Damaged
Transponder keys are not as easy to replace as standard automotive keys because of the security features that make them what they are. Transponder chips need to be programmed to your specific vehicle. A locksmith can perform this service for you and has access to all of the technology to program the transponder chip correctly. This is easier to do if you have your original key. If you don’t, check the next section for tips on how to deal with transponder key issues.
If the problems lies in your chip, it can render your key completely useless until you get it replaced. So it’s important to act on having it replaced as soon as you realize there’s an issue.
Your Car Keys Are Lost or Stolen
If you’re sure that your car keys were stolen, or you’ve looked everywhere to find your keys only to have them come up lost, you will probably need to replace your transponder key. A locksmith can replace a transponder key without having one to duplicate, however it is a longer and more difficult process as they have to fit it to your vehicle’s lock. It’s important to have a spare so that this situation can be avoided. Don’t be embarrassed at the situation if you’ve lost your keys or they’ve been stolen. Give a trained locksmith a call and they can initiate the process of producing a new transponder key for your locks.
The Key Won’t Start Your Car
This could be due to a number of issues afflicting either the lock mechanism or your transponder key itself. It’s hard to pinpoint the exact cause yourself. Your transponder key is powered by a battery, and that could have gone dead. It’s also possible that something has malfunctioned with the chip. It’s best to have the cause of the issue determined by an experienced locksmith. It could be due to a damaged lock, even if you don’t see anything wrong on the exterior of the lock. It could be a problem with the communication between the chip and the internal computer. Only a professional will be able to diagnose the exact cause.
Your Refurbished Transponder Key Isn’t Working
Many online outlets provide refurbished transponder keys for sale, and many money-conscious consumers have purchased these to save a few bucks. Make sure if you buy a transponder key online that it is from a reputable dealer to avoid any issues. Many dealerships refuse to program transponder keys that were purchased online, so keep this in mind if you’re considering buy one. Some keys are not capable of being programmed for particular vehicles, depending on the make and model. You might think of it as a money saving hack, however, it can cost you more than it’s worth in the long run. If you’re experiencing issues with a transponder key you purchased online, call a locksmith for assistance. They can attempt to program your transponder key with the best technology available.
Your Transponder Chip Reset
This is usually due to the battery inside the transponder key dying. It takes a long time for this to happen, but it is possible. Based on the particular settings of your manufacturer’s chip, the programming of the chip may be instructed to reset if the battery on the chip dies. So even if you change the battery, the chip has reset and it will no longer work on your vehicle, requiring the key to be reprogrammed to fit your car again. If you start noticing signs of a weak battery in your transponder key, including difficulty with getting it to communicate with your engine, be sure to have the problem assessed right away.
If you’re experiencing issues with your transponder key, don’t just ignore them and hope that they go away. A locksmith can help you address any issues you’re having with your transponder chip key and figure out a solution that will fix the problem in a knowledgeable manner. If you notice problems with your transponder key but hope you can use a wait and see approach you might find yourself stranded in the middle of nowhere, unable to start your vehicle.
Instead of having to deal with this unsettling experience, it’s better to consult a locksmith as soon as you notice problems with your transponder chip keys. Your car is important to your daily life, and if it becomes unusable for any reason that can totally throw your regular routine for a loop. By addressing problems with your transponder key early, you are guaranteeing that you will solve issues before they become full blown problems.