Transponder Key Problems

Do you know what a transponder key is? If you drive or own a newer model vehicle, than it is likely that your key is outfitted with a transponder. A transponder key serves several different purposes. They are excellent when it comes to the security of your vehicle, but when they no longer work properly or end up missing, it can present a major problem for vehicle owners.

The first component of the transponder system is this key. The second component to go along with your transponder key is a corresponding electrical unit or computer system within your car. This system matches and recognizes only one transponder key. In order to turn on and drive vehicles that are built with transponder systems, only the correct key can be used to turn on the vehicle. This was done especially by car manufacturers for a couple of reasons, but mostly for security purposes.

Transponder Key Benefits

The primary benefit of owning a vehicle with a transponder key system is theft protection. Because the car will only respond and turn on for a specific key, this helps to deter thieves from even attempting to steal your car. It is far more difficult to hotwire a car with a transponder system, which is why the majority of vehicle manufacturers now require that all newer model cars have transponder keys.

Transponder keys also help prevent accidental car theft. There have been instances where individuals with the same make and model as another will mistakenly drive off in another’s car because, somehow, their own key miraculously works. This problem was solved with the introduction of transponder keys and part of the reason they are required now. It is now unlikely if your drive a newer model car that someone with a similar car will be able to use their own key to start your car.

Transponder Key Problems

Internal Key Damage

The key itself is vulnerable to being the source of problems. Through persistent, daily use, it is possible that over time your transponder key itself may stop working one day. If you attempt to turn on your vehicle and it will not turn on with your key, then the computer system within your car may not be reading the key correctly. Your car may be unable to know that you have the proper key because of some faulty piece within your transponder key. It is possible something could have become loose within the key or the transponder has been worn out or damaged in some way.

Internal Car Damage

It is also possible to have a similar problem, just in reverse. It could be, if your transponder key will not turn on your car, that the computer reader within the car is the problem. Maybe there is nothing wrong with the key at all, but the transponder unit within the car is faulty for whatever reason. In this case, you would not be able to start your car either since. Even though the key may still work, the corresponding mechanism within the car must also properly function for the car to start.

Misplaced or Lost Transponder Key

A lost key is unsettling to say the least. In the event that you are unable to locate your transponder key for whatever reason, you will want to get it replaced as soon as possible. Calling a locksmith in this circumstance is highly recommended. It is also advised that you do not delay in getting the key replaced, especially if you presume your key may have been stolen. Most locksmiths offer 24-hour services and are open 7 days a week, so be sure to call as soon as you can in these circumstances and have a locksmith replace your transponder key

Transponder Key Replacement

The best recommendation in any of these scenarios is to have a locksmith attend to your vehicle and either replace or fix your transponder key. It is important that your car be seen by an experienced locksmith due to the complexities involved in transponder systems. They will know how to properly set up both the transponder key and the system within the car so the two properly communicate. It is worth noting that you should not try to fix the system or the key yourself. Causing further damage will only cause more heartache and waste more of your time. Getting back on the road safely will be easiest and most efficient with the help of a locksmith.

Locksmiths are trained to identify all kinds of different problems, so they will also be able to properly access whether or not the problem is with your transponder key or some other issue. Be rest assured that you can have a locksmith come to your home or wherever your car is stuck, especially in the event of an emergency. The best locksmiths usually have an on-call team that can quickly help you out of a jam. If you break, lose or misplace your transponder key, or have any other questions about transponder key issues, a locksmith will be your best resource for the most accurate information.