What Should You Know About Transponder Keys?

Although transponder keys seem like they are the holy grail of keys, there are several things that you should know about them.

• They are expensive to make.

Although this feature helps these keys to offer a lot of security, it can be a big disadvantage to vehicle owners. If you normally pay a few bucks to get your car key copied, make sure you add a lot more to that. Transponder keys can cost as much as a few hundred dollars to make. If you have a transponder key, make sure you do not get it damaged or lose it.

• It is not easy to duplicate them.

Another safety feature of transponder keys, this feature may end up being a bother for many people who own transponder keys. Why? If you ever need to duplicate your transponder key, you may end up in a bit of a pickle. While it is usually less expensive to duplicate your key by going to a locksmith, you will realize that not all locksmiths are able to duplicate these types of keys. They require special equipment, experience and expertise.

• They are prone to several problems just like regular keys

Transponder keys have all the features of regular keys. It’s just that they have a transponder chip included. This means that they are prone to all the problems that you can experience with a regular key. They can get stuck, broken, damaged and lost. If you ever have a problem with your transponder key, make sure you can find a locksmith in your area to handle it for you. It will save you a few bucks too. Locksmiths often provide key services for a fraction of the cost that you will pay at your dealer.

• If your transponder chip is missing, the key will not start the vehicle.

This is one of those things that you hope will never happen to you. The transponder chip is very crucial to your car starting. If it is missing, you will have to get a new key. Hopefully, you have a spare and you won’t have to spend all that money to get a duplicate. But, whatever you do, make sure that you do not attempt to bypass the transponder chip.

What to Do If Your Transponder Key Gets Lost

If your transponder key gets lost, you have two basic options.

• Try to get access to your spare key.

If you have lost your transponder key, hopefully you will have a spare one. If you do, all you need to do is make sure that you can get access to it. If you cannot get access to it or you do not have a spare key, you may have to get a key by some other means.

• Call a locksmith for help.

No extra key? It’s time to get the help of a locksmith. When you call your locksmith to find out if you will be able to get a key, make sure that you specify that you need a transponder key. Why? Not every locksmith will have the equipment needed to make these types of keys.

Other Problems That You May Have with Your Transponder Key
Since your transponder key is prone to many problems, there are several other things that can go wrong.

• The transponder chip falls out

If you are a bit clumsy with your keys, they may fall at some point or another. When you realize that your transponder key has fallen, make sure that you check to see if the chip has fallen out. This is especially important if you realize that the key has opened up and things have fallen out of it.

• It needs to be programmed.

Sometimes, it may be necessary to reprogram your transponder key. If you notice that the key is not starting the vehicle but there are no signs of damage and you are sure that the transponder chip is inside, it may just need a little reprogramming. Some keys are easily reprogrammed but others may have to be reprogrammed by a professional.

• The battery is dead.

Some transponder keys have batteries in them. If your transponder key has a battery, it won’t last forever. At some point, you are going to have to replace it. If your battery in the transponder key is dead, you can still use the key for basic functions such as opening doors and so on. Not sure what batteries it uses? Stop by our store.