Transponder Key Problems

Let’s start with the basics. A transponder key, by definition, is a key that has a transponder chip or a transmitter inside of it. It disarms a car immobilizer and is a part of the car’s anti-theft system (because it disarms the immobilizer, it allows a vehicle to be used). It works in such a way that the car key is utilized to start up the engine by sending an electronic message from the engine control unit to the key.

Does your vehicle use a transponder key?

Most keys made after the mid-1990s for vehicles contain transponder chips, so if you have purchased a new car in the last 20 years, you will very likely know at least a little bit about transponder keys. These keys are beneficial because they allow a car owner to have access to the use of their vehicle, but they prevent unwanted persons from being able to start or steal a car. It’s easy to see why transponder keys and chips became so popular, and why so many cars use them.

So what are some common problems that occur with transponder keys? And what should you do if you are dealing with issues? Lock and security experts have put together some “key” things to look for, no pun intended!

1. The transponder key simply isn’t working. Whether you are attempting to unlock your car door or start your vehicle, if the transponder key isn’t working, you have a problem on your hands. But the first tip that a locksmith will give is to check the battery. That’s right – it might be as simple as a dead battery. Make sure to get the battery replaced as quickly as possible to avoid potentially locking yourself out of your vehicle. Note that some transponder keys do not use a battery to operate, so if you are unsure, just ask a professional, like your dealership or a locksmith.
2. The chip could become damaged, which might cause the key to stop serving its purpose. If this does happen to be a case, you will probably have to purchase a new transponder key. This is something that you should be able to do through your dealership but you might find that it is less expensive to go through a local locksmith.
3. The transponder key could get lost. If this happens, which it sometimes does, you will need a professional to program a new key for you. This isn’t something that a person can do without the right tools, so contact a local lock and security provider or your dealership. Remember, not just any key will work with your vehicle – only your transponder key will, and only an expert can program one for you.
4. If you bought a refurbished transponder key, you might find that it cannot be programmed. This isn’t a problem for all vehicles, but occasionally it is. This is because the chip has been harvested from another key and then put into a new key, and it might not be able to be reprogrammed. So you’re basically left with a key that doesn’t work and a chip that is locked.

So, now that you know the very important purpose of a transponder key and some of the potential issues that might arise, we will go through the different types of transponder keys that are available in today’s market.

1. Zero bitted keys. These are keys which are able to easily be cloned because of the way that they are set up. They lack a preset inscription.
2. Encrypted keys. These have a predetermined encryption which must be programmed to a specific vehicle.

Be cautious with your purchase…

Just keep in mind that many experts will not work on a key that was bought elsewhere, so if you go to a dealership or locksmith with a key that you bought online, they might not be willing to handle it. Just make sure that if you do opt to buy a key over the Internet, perhaps because it is the best deal, that you are buying from a company with a great reputation. This will save you a great deal of stress and hassle in the long run.

Hopefully you have found this information to be helpful. If you are dealing with any of the specific issues mentioned, then heed the advice of experts and connect with a professional. Remember that your transponder key and its chip are very significant and serve as an important part of your vehicle’s anti-theft system. You will make things more convenient for you, and lessen the chance of your vehicle being stolen, by ensuring that you always have a transponder key that works.