Transponder keys are the new age of technology for automotive car keys. They are factory made keys that come with newer cars which provide a radio transmission between the car and the key. This system allows a radio transmission to be programmed to a specific car, thus making the key a higher security type of key, reducing the chance for car thieves to steal a car. The way the work is that they have a microchip inside the actual key, with a serial number to a specific vehicle. The electronic engine control unit (ECU) will send a request to the vehicle for it to validate the serial number, thus allow a person the ability to turn on the car. If the car doesn’t register the serial number to match with the key, then it will not start.
Unfortunately how good this system sounds, and makes you feel more secure, it is also more expensive to replace if lost or broken, which is not an uncommon occurrence. Thankfully, several locksmith services have technicians who can easily replace the transponder key, at a much cheaper price than the dealer, and also have the ability to program it to the vehicle. When looking for a locksmith to replace your transponder key, it is important to make sure you call highly qualified locksmith technicians to come out to you. Some car manufacturers have been resistant to releasing their programming codes to locksmiths, possibly for fear of theft, but most of the information is available to authorized users, and locksmiths, this would include professional locksmiths which provide all of those services. When it comes to a locksmith, our job is to save you time and money if you are in need of the service. Other services which technician with knowledge of transponder keys can provide are also for switchblade keys, coded car keys, as well as the programming of the keys.
It is always advised to have at least one extra set of spare keys, which are usually provided by the dealer at the time of purchase, so that you can avoid getting stuck, or even worse, paying an outrageous dealer fee, and towing fee to the dealer. If you ever find yourself in a situation where your transponder key is misplaced, or broken, it is highly recommended that you call a mobile locksmith experienced in transponder keys as it will save you time and money.
These key replacement services are not as often needed, but most emergency locksmiths generally service all types of locks and keys when it comes to automobiles so you should not have a hard time finding someone local to you that will drive out to your location within 15-30 minutes. Just make sure that they have a technician certified in working with, and programming transponder keys, to avoid having to make a visit to the dealer due to a fault key. The biggest benefit about a mobile locksmith, is not only will the make the key at your location, most will program it for free, and charge you a fraction of what the dealer charges. Good luck and hopefully this never happens to you.