Possible Problems with Transponder Keys

If you own a vehicle made in the last decade and a half or so, then you likely own a specific type of vehicle key known as a transponder or ‘chip’ key. Transponder keys were made mandatory back in the mid-1990s for several reasons. These specialized keys have changed the way vehicle drivers access their vehicle and maintain their vehicle security. While transponder keys work great most of the time, just as with any other device, they are prone to wear and tear, breakage, and other problems.

What Are Transponder Keys?

Before we dive into how you can solve various transponder key problems, let’s go over what a transponder key is and how they operate. Your transponder key has two parts. One is the chip that sits inside of the key, while the other is the chip that sits inside of your vehicle. When programmed correctly, the vehicle chip and the key chip will essentially communicate with one another and recognize the other through electrical signals. Once a clear pairing between the transponder key and the chip inside the car has been identified, the car will be able to operate and turn on. Without the presence of the right transponder key, as well as a clear signal, one’s vehicle will not start.

Why Are They Necessary?

Transponder keys are, in short, anti-theft devices. Prior to their invention, it was not very difficult to steal a car by hotwiring it. Transponder keys essentially made this criminal activity impossible. With a vehicle that is outfitted with a transponder key, the car will not start or turn on by any means unless the transponder key itself is present. A criminal may try to get the vehicle to start by tampering with the wiring, but they will come up short unless they can establish a connection to the transponder signal.

Problems You May Experience

While transponder keys are a great addition to one’s vehicle, they can be more difficult to replace or manage when problems occur. There are a few scenarios involving your transponder key that you may find yourself experiencing at some point. Luckily, if you are having issues with your transponder key, know that they can easily be replaced by a professional.

Key Damage

One of the most common reasons that one’s transponder key will stop working is the chip inside of the key has become damaged in some way. Since you carry your keys with you pretty much everywhere you go and likely use your car key on a daily basis, wear and tear can easily cause your transponder key to stop working as time goes on. It is advised that you do not attempt to try and open your transponder key in order to get a look inside at the transponder chip itself. This will likely not be helpful and may end up causing more damage than necessary.

Vehicle Chip Damage

Just as the key chip itself may be worn, it is also possible that the signal inside of your vehicle is faulty. Just like with any suspected key damage, you do not want to try and find the vehicle chip or repair it yourself. A professional can better determine where the source of the problem is, while avoiding any extra damage to your vehicle paneling or other parts.

Lost or Stolen Transponder Key

The last scenario you may find yourself in when it comes to transponder key problems is a lost or stolen key. Lost or stolen transponder keys pose a different problem compared to traditional vehicle keys that may have become lost or stolen. Most transponder key owners only have one transponder key in total. Any extra vehicle keys they may have will likely only open the trunk, doors, and glovebox, unless they have been specially programmed like the original transponder key.

Replace Your Transponder Key Fast!

Unlike traditional or non-chip vehicle keys, transponder keys require programming in order to work. A replacement will require going to a professional who has experience working with vehicle key replacements and transponder keys. Mobile locksmiths are recommended whenever you find yourself dealing with a transponder key issue.

Mobile locksmiths are professional locksmiths that have received specialized training in order to be able to make vehicle lock repairs and replacements on all kinds of makes and models. Mobile locksmiths also have the ability to perform transponder key changes and other vehicle lock and key procedures while on-the-go. Since a transponder key problem will likely leave you stranded, relying on a mobile locksmith that can come straight to you is the most efficient way to receive a transponder key replacement.

Instead of hiring a tow truck to take your vehicle to a dealership for a simple key replacement, call a mobile locksmith in your area first. Service from a mobile locksmith will be faster and more affordable than waiting for a tow truck to come help you and take you elsewhere for a replacement. Working with a mobile locksmith will allow you to work with one trusted and competent individual that can come straight to you, rather than working with multiple services and having to pay multiple bills.

Hire a Trusted, Local Locksmith Today!

Do you need a professional locksmith to help with your transponder key replacement or other vehicle lock and key needs? Contact Peachtree Corners Locksmith, LLC to work with the most affordable and efficient mobile locksmiths in Peachtree Corners, GA! Our mobile team is available 24-hours a day to assist with key replacements, emergency lockouts, lock changes, ignition cylinder repairs, and more. When you need a mobile locksmith to help you immediately, whether you are stranded at home or on the side of the road, know that Peachtree Corners Locksmith, LLC is the team to trust! In addition to our fantastic mobile locksmithing services for vehicles of all kinds, we also offer residential and commercial locksmithing services. For you home, vehicle, or business, count on our locksmiths to elevate and maintain your security today!