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If you are using a transponder key, you are among the fortunate. A transponder key is used to unlock and start your car remotely. If you live a rather active life and have children, you likely benefit more than the average person, from having a transponder key. Newer model cars use transponder keys. It does more than just enable you to unlock and start your car door, you can unlock and lock your car door and set alarms. The transponder key has a chip that is programmed with your cars information on it. The chip communicates with a computer and the computer will recognize your keys signal when you press it. However, the only car that your key will unlock and start is yours since the chip is only associated with your car. The good thing about this is that it is very difficult for a car thief to steal your vehicle unless they have your key. With such advanced technology, it is reasonable to conclude that a transponder key will cost more than your traditional car key. However, you can’t really put a value on the advantages of using this type of key.
One thing to keep in mind is that while it may be more challenging for a car thief to steal a car that has a transponder key, it isn’t impossible. They can steal your car if they have your keys. People are rather clever and getting a hold of your keys is not impossible. Suppose you are jumping in and out of your car and you just happen to drop your car keys. Someone may find them and begin pressing your buttons to find out which car the keys belong to. If they find your car, they can be off and on their way in no time. It’s really just that easy, so make sure you have a method to ensure you always have your car keys on you when exiting your vehicle.
When you have to have another transponder key made, you can expect it to take a little more effort than that of a traditional car key. If you should happen to lose your key, chances are that you would like to know what your options are. It is easy for someone to make a traditional key but it takes the right tools and equipment to make a transponder key. Not every hardware store has what they need to produce another transponder key for you. While they may be able to sell you the key, they may not have the necessary equipment to program the chip. A locksmith who has invested in their business is sure to have all the needed tools and equipment to get you the help that you need.
If your transponder key should stop working, here are some reasons why:
Communication Problem – If your key is not communicating with the centralized computer system that is program to, this means you’ll have to have the chip reprogrammed. This is something that a locksmith can come to your location to do.
Manufacturer Defect – If the warranty on your key is still good, and it has been determined that there is a manufacturer defect; you’ll be able to get another one without any problem. If it isn’t under a warranty, contact a locksmith to have another one programmed.
Object Inside Ignition – Even if the smallest thing is stuck in your ignition, this can cause a problem with your transponder key working properly. A locksmith can locate the problem and safely remove whatever is in the ignition. This usually resolves the problem and you are able to go back to using the key again.
These are amongst the most common reasons people experience problems with their transponder key. If you’re experiencing problems with your key working sometimes but not working as efficiently as it used to, stop by and allow one of our qualified locksmiths to have a look at it. You could take your car to a dealership but in most cases, you’ll be charged an arm and a leg just for them to look at it. If they have to resolve the issue, you’re looking at an even more expensive job. However, a locksmith will charge you what it is worth to quickly and effectively handle this type of job for you. We won’t charge you any more than is necessary. Dealerships have overhead expenses that they need to cover and you will be the one footing the bill for it. If you experience a problem with your transponder key, we want to know about it because as a locksmith company, we sure that we’ll have a practical and affordable resolution to your problem. Owning a transponder key comes with some drawbacks but the advantages outweigh those.
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