"Ask Me Anything:10 Answers To Your Questions About Vehicle Key Repairs
Vehicle Key Repairs
It's frustrating when your car key won't turn in the ignition. However, it's generally easy to solve.
Lubricate the lock's cylinder to let the pins to fall in a correct manner. The use of silicone-based lubricant will also prevent dirt particles from accumulating within the lock.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also called "chip" keys, contain an electronic microchip embedded within the head of plastic. It's a bit more difficult to duplicate than a traditional metal key, but most locksmiths in your area can assist you. They'll use a specially-designed tool and the chip in your car to duplicate an already-programmed car key.
When you insert your transponder key into the ignition it transmits an electronic signal to the car's antenna ring. the signal must match your car's identification code for the engine to begin. This technology deters theft by making it virtually impossible for thieves to hot wire your vehicle to start it and then drive away.
Most modern cars come with a transponder system and you'll likely need a specialist in repair of transponder keys when yours isn't working correctly. Transponder keys are designed to be extremely difficult to steal and to protect the valuable contents of your car. They aren't copied with the same ease as a mechanical key, and many car brands have anti-theft devices that shut down the engine of your vehicle if a non-transponder key is used.
Transponder car keys have been in use for a long time and have helped to stop car theft from happening. It was simple for car thieves to start the car by putting two wires together. key fob repair near me was called "hotwiring" and was extremely simple. However, when General Motors introduced their Transponder Key in 1985 and made it a bit more difficult for old-fashioned and novice thieves to steal vehicles.
While these key systems have helped keep a lot of cars from theft, there are still people out there who will attempt to evade them, so it's a good idea to have your car's security inspected regularly. If your key isn't working properly or has been damaged in any way, you should contact your local Mesa locksmith as soon as you can to get it repaired. They can help keep your vehicle safe and secure from thieves.
Smart Keys
Certain cars come with smart keys that are more advanced than traditional car keys. They can unlock doors and even start your engine without the need to insert the key into the lock. They also come with convenience and security features that can save time and money.
Smart keys communicate with your car using an identification system that uses radio frequencies, or RFID. An antenna that is specifically placed on your vehicle reads signals from the key fob whenever it is within range. The signal has a unique number that your vehicle can recognize and allows it to open a door or start the car. This technology also makes it possible for you to lock your doors and trunk with a button push even if the key fob is not in the vehicle.
This system is designed to provide the protection of your vehicle against theft. If the computer in your vehicle detects a signal coming from an invalid keyfob it will transmit a different encrypted code and activate a security alert. It will also stop the engine from starting, making it very difficult to take your vehicle.
In most cases, if you lose your smart key, it is best to call your dealer for a replacement, instead of trying to replace it yourself. To make a new key the dealer will require evidence of ownership and identity. However, they will usually assist you in obtaining the new key faster than a locksmith could.
There are exceptions, however. If you have a special key that would be very expensive or difficult to replace, the dealer might be the only option. In these situations you might be in a position to save money by visiting your local locksmith rather than the dealership.
Misplacing a car key used to be a big issue, and could require a trip to the dealership. Thankfully, replacing modern keys for cars is now a much simpler process. If your keys have been lost or have stopped functioning, the knowledgeable Pop-Alock team will provide a fast solution that will help you avoid any additional expenses.
Remote Fobs
Many vehicles have a key fob that allows you to start your vehicle, lock the doors, and access other features. Like any electronic device, there are times when they're not working. Most of the time 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 begins acting up is to change the battery. You can often find a YouTube video online that will walk you through the process step-by-step. If replacing the battery fails to work then you can try different methods.
Make sure you check all the buttons in your key fob. Since they see a lot of use and spend long periods of time being jostled around, the buttons may be loosened or even broken off. If you're experienced with electronics, you could try soldering the buttons back in place or even replace them completely.
A issue with your vehicle's receiver is another problem that could be a problem. The key fob sends signals to the receiver to open the car or to start it however if that signal is interrupted for reasons of any kind, it won't work. The receiver also has the potential to stop working if the battery in your key fob fail or are replaced.
A final possibility is that your fob needs to be reprogrammed. Smart key systems in your vehicle rely on a unique code that can be used by the receiver and transmitter to identify the other. This code changes each time the fob is used, which prevents attackers from cloning or hacking the signals and entering your vehicle.
If your fob fails to function and you're stuck in the middle nowhere take a spare along to ensure that you still unlock your car and return home safely. This will also provide you with an extra backup in the event that your primary fob fails to function in the future, so you don't get stuck in a remote location.
Although having a spare fob may seem like an unnecessary expense, it can save you from the hassle and stress of being stuck in a bind with no way to start your car or get home. Having one can also save you the expense of having to call for a locksmith or gaining entry to your vehicle if you lock yourself out.