Vehicle Key Repairs: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

· 5 min read
Vehicle Key Repairs: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

Vehicle Key Repairs

It's frustrating when your car key isn't turning in the ignition. But it's usually simple to solve.

It could be as simple as lubricating the lock cylinder, which permits the pins to drop properly. The use of silicone-based lubricant will also prevent dirt particles from getting accumulated inside the lock.

Transponder Keys


Transponder keys, also known as "chip" keys, have an electronic microchip embedded into the head of plastic. It's a bit more difficult to duplicate than a traditional metal key, but most locksmiths in your area can help you. They'll use a special tool to duplicate an existing key that has been programmed and then use the chip inside your vehicle to enable it to function.

When you insert your transponder keys into the ignition it transmits an electronic signal to the car's antenna ring, and that signal must match your vehicle's identification number in order for the engine to begin. This technology deters theft by making it almost impossible for thieves to hot wire your car to start it and then drive away.

Transponder systems are found in most modern cars. If yours isn't working properly, you'll need to speak with a professional. Transponder keys are designed to be hard to steal, and also to safeguard the valuable contents of your car. They aren't able to be copied as easily as a mechanical key and a lot of car manufacturers have anti-theft devices that disable the engine of your vehicle when you are using a non-transponder.

Transponder car keys have been in use for years and have really been able to stop car theft off the track. In the past, thieves would simply touch two wires to the ignition and then start it up - this was known as "hot wiring" and was easy to do. General Motors' Transponder Key was introduced in 1985 and made it harder for novice and old-school car thieves to steal vehicles.

Although these key systems have helped to stop a large number of car theft, there are still those who attempt to circumvent them, so it's an excellent idea to have your car's security inspected regularly. If your key is not working correctly or is damaged in any way, call your local Mesa locksmith as soon as you can to fix it. They'll be able to keep your car safe from thieves, and give you back your peace of mind.

Smart Keys

Certain vehicles 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 keys into locks. They also come with convenience and security features that can save you time and money.

Smart keys use a radio-frequency identification, or RFID system, to communicate with your vehicle. An antenna that is specifically placed on your vehicle reads a signal from the key fob when it is within the range. The signal contains a unique code that your car recognizes and allows it to open the doors or start the engine. This technology also allows for you to lock your trunk and doors with a button push even when the key fob isn't in the vehicle.

This system is designed to protect your vehicle from theft. If the computer in your vehicle detects a signal coming from an invalid keyfob it will send out an encrypted code that is different and issue a security alarm.  car remote key repair near me  will also prevent the engine from starting, making it very difficult to steal your vehicle.

If you lose your smart-key, it is recommended to contact the dealer to request an exchange instead of trying to do it yourself. To make a replacement key the dealer will require evidence of ownership and identity. However, they are able to help you get a new one much faster than a locksmith could.

There are some exceptions, however. If you have a special key that would be very expensive or difficult to replace, the dealer could be your only option. In such cases you can save money by visiting an area locksmith instead of the dealership.

It was a major problem losing a car key. You might even have return to the dealer. Nowadays, replacing keys for cars is now an easy process. Pop-A Lock's knowledgeable team can assist you quickly replace your keys, regardless of whether they're damaged or lost.

Remote Fobs

The key fob is an easy way to start your vehicle, lock the doors, and access other features found in a variety of automobiles. But, like any electronic device, they could experience problems from time to time. Most times it's not a major issue and can be repaired relatively easily.

One of the first things you need to do if your car key fob is malfunctioning is to replace the battery. You can often find an YouTube video online that walks you through the process step by step. If replacing the battery fails to work you can try other methods.

Examine all the buttons on your key fob. Since they see a lot of use and spend much time in motion the buttons could become loose or even broken off. If you're experienced with electronics, you could try soldering the buttons back in place or replace them entirely.

A issue with your vehicle's receiver is another issue that could be a problem. If the signal from the key fob to the receiver is disrupted and the car isn't able to start or even open. The receiver is also prone to stop working if the battery in your key fob die or are replaced.

Your fob might need 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 each other. This code changes each time the fob is used, which prevents attackers from cloning or hacking the signals and gaining access to your vehicle.

If  broken car key repair  fob isn't working and you're in the middle of nowhere, keep a spare to ensure that you still unlock your car and get home safely. This will also provide you with an alternative in the event that your main fob stops working in the near future, so you don't get trapped in the middle of nowhere.

Although having a spare fob might seem like an unnecessary expense but it could save you from the anxiety and hassle of being stuck in a bind with no option to start your car or get home. You will also save the expense of a locksmith as well as breaking into your car if you lock yourself in.