If your car key is refusing to turn in the ignition, it's frustrating. It's usually an easy fix.
It could be as easy as lubricating the lock's cylinder, which allows the pins to drop properly. Using silicone-based lubricant also prevents dirt particles from accumulating inside the lock.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also called "chip" keys, have an electronic microchip embedded into the head made of plastic. Although it's more difficult to duplicate the transponder key than a metal one, most locksmiths in the local area are able to accomplish it. They will use a special tool and chip inside your vehicle to clone an already-programmed car key.
When you insert your transponder keys into the ignition it transmits a signal to your car's antenna ring. that signal must match with your vehicle's identification code in order for the engine to start. This technology helps discourage theft by making it almost impossible for thieves to wire your car to turn it on and then drive away.
Transponder systems are found in most modern cars. If yours isn't working properly, you'll need to talk to a professional. Transponder keys are designed to be hard to steal, and also to safeguard your car's valuable contents. They aren't able to be copied with the same ease as a mechanical one, and a lot of car brands have anti-theft mechanisms that disable the engine of your car when a non-transponder keys are used.
Transponder keys have been in use for a long time to stop car theft. Before, car thieves would simply touch two wires to the ignition and then start the engine - this was called "hot wiring" and it was very simple to do. But, when General Motors introduced their Transponder Key in 1985 and made it little more difficult for old-school and novice thieves to rob vehicles.
While these key systems have helped to keep a lot of cars from theft, there are still those who attempt to evade them, so it's always an excellent idea to have your vehicle security regularly checked. That means that if your key isn't functioning correctly or is damaged in some way, you should contact your local Mesa auto locksmith to have it repaired as quickly as possible. They can help keep your vehicle secure and safe from thieves.
Smart Keys Keys
Some cars are equipped with smart keys that are more sophisticated than traditional car keys. They can unlock doors and start your car without having to insert the key into the lock. In addition, they offer convenience and security features that can save your time and money.
Smart keys utilize an identification by radio frequency, or RFID system, to communicate with your vehicle. If the key fob is in the range of a specific antenna in your car detects the signal. The signal contains a unique code that your car can recognize and allows it to open the door or start the engine. This technology lets you lock the trunk and doors by pressing a button even when the key fob inside the vehicle is not present.
This system is designed to provide the protection of your vehicle against theft. If the computer in your vehicle detects a signal from an invalid keyfob it will issue an encrypted code in a different format and activate a security alert. It also stops the engine from being started, making it extremely difficult to take your car.
In most cases, if you lose your smart key, it is best to call your dealer to get a replacement, rather than trying to replace it yourself. To make a replacement key the dealer needs proof of ownership and identity. However, they will usually assist you in obtaining an additional key much quicker than a locksmith.
However, there are exceptions. If you have a particular key that would be very expensive or difficult to replace, the dealership may be your only alternative. In these situations, you may still be capable of saving money by visiting your local locksmith instead of the dealership.
It used to be an issue losing a car key. You may even have return to the dealer. Replacing car keys in the modern age is now a lot easier. Pop-A Lock's knowledgeable team can assist you quickly replace your keys regardless of whether they're broken or lost.
Remote Fobs
Many vehicles come with keys that allow you to start your vehicle, lock the doors, and access other features. Like any electronic device there are occasions when they have problems. Fortunately the majority of the time it's not anything serious and can be resolved with relative ease.
If your car key fob is acting up, replacing the battery is the first step. YouTube videos often guide you through the procedure step-by-step. However, if replacing the battery isn't helping you, there are other options that you can try.
Check all the buttons inside your key fob. Since they see a lot of use and spend much time in motion, the buttons may be damaged or even fall off. If you are familiar with electronics, you can try to solder the buttons back into place or even replace them completely.
A problem with your vehicle's receiver is another reason that may occur. If the signal from the key fob to the receiver is cut off and the car isn't able to start or even open. The receiver may also stop working if your key fob's batteries go out or have been replaced.
A final possibility is that your fob requires to be modified. Smart key systems in your vehicle rely on a unique code to be used by the transmitter and receiver to identify each other. This code changes every time the fob is used, which prevents hackers from cloning or hacking the signals and gaining access to your vehicle.
If your fob isn't working and you're stuck in the middle nowhere take a spare along with you so you can still unlock your car and return home in safety. This will give you another fob in the event the primary one fails in the future.
It may seem insignificant to have an extra key fob but it can save you the anxiety of being stuck without a means to start your car or home. Having one can also cut down on the expense of having call for a locksmith or breaking into your vehicle if you get locked out.
