The 10 Scariest Things About Vehicle Key Repairs
Vehicle Key Repairs
If your car key is refusing to turn in the ignition, it's frustrating. However, it's generally easy to solve.
It could be as easy as lubricating your lock cylinder, which permits the pins to drop correctly. The lubricant made of silicone will keep dirt particles out of getting into the lock.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip" keys, have an electronic microchip embedded within the head made of plastic. While it's more difficult to duplicate keys with transponders than a steel one, most local locksmiths can still accomplish it. They'll use a specially-designed tool and chip inside your car to duplicate the pre-programmed key for your car.
When you insert your transponder key into the ignition it sends a signal to your car's antenna ring, and that signal must match your vehicle's identification number in order for the engine to start. This technology deters theft by making it almost impossible for thieves to hot wire your vehicle to start it and drive away.
Transponder systems are present in most modern cars. If yours isn't working properly, you'll need to consult a specialist. Transponder keys are designed to be difficult to steal and to protect your car's valuable contents. They aren't able to be copied as easily as a mechanical key and many car makers have anti-theft mechanisms that shut down the engine of your car when you are using a non-transponder.
Transponder keys were used for a long time to deter car theft. Previously, car thieves would simply connect two wires to the ignition and turn the engine - this was called "hot wiring" and was easy to do. General Motors' Transponder Key was introduced in 1985, making it more difficult for novice and old-school car thieves to steal vehicles.
While these key systems have helped to stop a large number of car thefts, there are people out there who will try to get around them, so it's a good idea to have your vehicle security inspected regularly. If your key is not working properly or is damaged in any way, contact your local Mesa locksmith as soon as you can to get it repaired. They'll help protect your vehicle from thieves, and will restore your peace of mind.
Smart Keys
Some cars are equipped with smart keys that are more advanced than standard car keys. They can open your doors and turn on the engine without ever needing to be put into a lock or turning the ignition. Additionally, they provide additional security and convenience features that will save you time and money.
Smart keys communicate with your car using an identification system that uses radio frequencies, or RFID. When the key fob is within the range of an antenna, a specific one on your car reads the signal. The signal is unique code that your car can recognize and allows it to open the doors or start the engine. This technology allows you to lock the trunk and doors by pressing a button even if the key fob in the vehicle is not present.
This system is designed to guard your vehicle from theft. If the computer in your vehicle detects a signal coming from an invalid keyfob it will send out a different encrypted code and trigger a security alert. It will also prevent the engine from being started, making it extremely difficult to steal your vehicle.
In the majority of cases, if you lose your smart key, it is best to call your dealer to request a replacement instead of trying to replace it yourself. The dealer will require proof of identity and ownership in order to make an appropriate replacement key. They can often help you obtain one faster than a locksmith.
There are exceptions, however. The dealership could be the only option in case you have keys that are difficult or expensive to replace. In these situations you might be able to save money by visiting your local locksmith rather than the dealership.
Misplacing a car key was a huge deal, and it might require a trip to the dealership. Replacing keys for modern cars is now much easier. Pop-A-Lock's experienced team can help you quickly replace your keys, whether they are broken or lost.
Remote Fobs
A lot of vehicles come with key fobs that allow you to start your car, lock the doors, and access other features. Like car remote key repair there are instances when they're prone to problems. Luckily that's the case most of the time. it's nothing serious and can be resolved in a relatively simple manner.
If your car's key fob is acting up, changing the battery is the first thing you do. There is often a YouTube video on the internet that walks you through the process step by step. But if replacing the battery doesn't help you, there are other options that you can try.
Examine all the buttons on your key fob. The buttons may be damaged or loose if they are frequently used and tossed around a lot. If you are familiar with electronics, you can try soldering the buttons back in place or replace them completely.
A issue with your vehicle's receiver is another issue that could arise. The key fob transmits a signal to the receiver to open the car or start it but if the signal is cut off for any reason, it won't work. The receiver also has the potential to stop working if the battery in your key fob die or are replaced.
repair broken car key might require reprogramming. Your vehicle's smart key systems rely on the transmitter in the fob and the receiver to recognize each other by using an individual code unique to your vehicle. This code changes every time the fob is used, preventing hackers from cloning or hacking the signals and gaining access to your vehicle.
If your fob fails to function and you're in the middle nowhere, keep a spare with you so you can still unlock your car and get home safely. This will give you a backup fob in case your primary one fails in the future.
While having a spare fob might seem like a waste of money, it can save you from the anxiety and hassle of being stuck in a bind with no way to start your vehicle or get home. You can also avoid the expense of a locksmith as well as breaking into your car if you lock yourself into.