Alpharetta Quick Locksmith
Mobile Locksmiths
Transponder keys are now standard. Superior because they make automobiles much more difficult to steal, though they are more expensive.
Remember the old days when the key was as simple as sticking it into the door lock to open the car? Putting it directly into the trunk lock to put all your shopping items away? And then inserting that same key into the ignition to start the car? Well… the transponder keys of today have made things feel so much safer and more efficient, though are the benefits being taken for granted?
Transponder keys work as ignition keys for your automobile and make getting in and out of your car very easy by unlocking the doors like a remote. You can activate and deactivate your car alarm, open your trunk remotely, and some can even start your car remotely. Now that is efficient, right?
A transponder key works with the transponder chip inside sending out a unique signal to your car’s computer. This includes a specific frequency aligned to your automobile only. As the signal is received, the mechanical part of the key releases your steering lock so you can activate the ignition and drive.
For some vehicles, laser-cut transponder key is all-in-one with the fob, also referred to as “sidewinder” keys because of the winding cut feature on the shank. Usually laser-cut keys’ built-in chips have to be programmed by the dealership. There are also switchblade keys which fold into the fob. Similar to a switchblade knife, you pop it out by pressing a button. One advantage to this type of key is that its components can be bought separately if one isn’t working, but if it’s lost or stolen the entire key still needs to be replaced and reprogrammed.
This could be as simple as your car not starting when turning the key, or your car begins to take longer to start as time passes. This could indicate that your transponder chip key is reaching the end of its life, and a new one will need to be cut.
First, make sure to take a look at the dashboard lights when attempting to start your car with the key. If the transponder key light stays lit up, then there is a possibility that something is happening with the transponder chip key. Many professionals have recommended trying use of the spare key first.
So, is the dealership necessary? There are many occasions when you can keep in mind that the dealership is going to be much more expensive than a high-quality locksmith professional. One of the greatest issues with the dealership is the requirement of an appointment in order to have service completed. Even the copy of a key. If your car won’t start, this is an emergency, without the time to set an appointment!
Considering the fact that the dealer or a mechanic is not able to come to you, the cost of towing your car to them is quite a heavy additional time and expense. Therefore, it is much more helpful to call a locksmith like us, prepared for the mobile emergency, ready to come to you on site and cut a new key on the spot.
This is why you should call us as we not only provide roadside assistance but are available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Dealerships and mechanics close, but we can meet you anytime and anywhere.
Were you possibly blessed with a smart key with your vehicle? Unlike the transponder keys that are a key included in a fob, these are just a fob with no need to insert them in the ignition at all. Some of them need to be inserted in the dash but others just need to be within a certain range of the engine, say when you are sitting in the car.
You either insert it into the dash, or you can keep in your pocket or purse. When you sit in the driver’s seat, you can start and stop the car just by pressing a button. A smart key is exceptionally secure because of its rolling security codes. Continually randomizing the correct code, it prevents a would-be professional car thief from hacking it with a code grabber. If you lose your smart key, your dealership can replace it.
You should have an extra copy of your transponder key that you received upon buying your car. If you gave that car key to someone else, you should get an additional copy made to keep in a safe and secure place. Because your transponder key is connected to your vehicle alone, a lost or stolen key could make your car easy to steal.
A transponder key is different. If you can’t find your transponder key, depending on the automaker and the detail of the key’s design, the replacement of your key isn’t cheap. Most dealerships charge a lot for reprogramming and replacing transponder keys. That’s where our 24/7 emergency service comes into play. Even if your key is lost, it is no problem. We program a new transponder and cut a new key on the spot as our technicians travel around with a multitude of tools needed to get the job done. No matter what car you drive, we can make you a new key.
