Ask Me Anything: 10 Answers To Your Questions About Vehicle Key Repairs
Vehicle Key Repairs
It's frustrating when your car's key will not turn on in the ignition. But it's usually easy to fix.
It may be as simple as lubricating your lock cylinder, which permits the pins to drop in a correct manner. The lubricant based on silicone can keep dirt particles out of accumulating in the lock.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip" keys, have an electronic microchip embedded into the head of plastic. While it's more difficult to duplicate the transponder key than a steel one, most locksmiths in the local area can still accomplish it. They'll employ a specific tool to duplicate an existing pre-programmed key and then use the chip in your car to create a new one.
The engine will only begin when the transponder keys are inserted into the ignition. This sends a signal that has to be in line with the vehicle's identification number. This technology discourages theft by making it almost impossible for thieves hot wire your vehicle to start it and then drive off.
Transponder systems can be found in most modern cars. If yours isn't working properly, you'll need to talk to a professional. Transponder keys are designed to make them hard to steal and secure the valuable contents of your car. They aren't able to be copied with the same ease as a mechanical key, and many car manufacturers have anti-theft mechanisms that disable the engine of your car in the event that a non-transponder key is used.
Transponder keys were used for a long time to deter car theft. It was simple for thieves to open the car by touching two wires together. key repair near me was called "hotwiring" and was very easy. However the moment General Motors introduced their Transponder Key in 1985 and made it a bit more difficult for old-fashioned and novice thieves to rob vehicles.
It's a good idea, even though these systems have prevented many car thefts to make sure that the security of your vehicle checked frequently. If your key isn't working properly or has been damaged in any way, call your local Mesa locksmith as soon as you can to have it fixed. They'll be able to help protect your vehicle from thieves, and restore your peace of mind.
Smart Keys
Some cars come with smart keys that are more sophisticated than a traditional car key. They can unlock doors and start your car without having to insert a key into a lock. They also offer security and convenience features that will save you time and money.
Smart keys communicate with your car via a radio frequency identification system also known as RFID. When the key fob is in the range of an antenna, a specific one on your vehicle reads the signal. The signal is a unique code that your car recognizes and allows it to open the doors or start the engine. This technology also makes it possible to secure your trunk and doors with a single push, even when the key fob isn't inside the vehicle.
This system is designed to guard your vehicle from theft. If the computer inside your vehicle detects a signal from a keyfob that is not valid, it will send out an encrypted code that is different and activate a security alert. It will also stop the engine from starting, making it very difficult to take your vehicle.
If you lose your smart-key, it's best to call the dealership to get a replacement rather than try to do it yourself. To make a new key the dealer needs proof of ownership and identity. However, they can usually assist you in obtaining the new key faster than a locksmith.
There are some exceptions however. If you have a particular key that is expensive or difficult to replace, the dealer could be your only alternative. In these cases, you may still be in a position to save money by visiting your local locksmith instead of the dealership.
Misplacing a car key was a huge problem, and may be required an excursion to the dealer. Replacing modern car keys is now a lot easier. Pop-A-Lock's expert team can help you quickly replace your keys, regardless of whether they're broken or lost.
Remote Fobs
A lot of vehicles come with key fobs that allow you to start your vehicle and lock the doors and access other features. However, just like any electronic device, they can have issues from time to time. Fortunately, most of the time it's nothing serious and can be resolved with relative ease.
If your car key fob is acting up, replacing the battery should be the first thing you do. YouTube videos often guide you through the procedure step-by-step. But if replacing the battery isn't helping, there are other steps to try.
The first step is to look inside your key fob and examine all the buttons. The buttons may break or become loose if they are frequently used and tossed around frequently. If you are familiar with electronics, you can try soldering the buttons back into place or replace them entirely.
Another issue that could pop up is an issue with the receiver inside your vehicle. If the signal from your key fob to the receiver is disrupted and the car doesn't start or even open. The receiver also has the potential to stop working if the battery inside your key fob go out or are replaced.
The last possibility is that your fob needs to be reprogrammed. Smart key systems in your vehicle are based on a unique code that can be used by the receiver and transmitter to recognize the other. This code changes each time the fob is used. This prevents attackers from cloning and hacking signals to gain access to your vehicle.
If your fob is malfunctioning and you're in the middle of nowhere, keep an extra in your pocket to ensure that you are able to unlock your car and make it home in a safe manner. This will give you a backup fob in case the primary one fails in the future.
Although having a spare fob can seem like a waste of money but it could save you from the hassle and stress of being stuck in a bind with no way to start your car or get home. You can also avoid the expense of a locksmith and breaking into your car if you lock yourself inside.