Meadowbrook Locksmith Company

Transponder Keys, Problems

Transponder keys offer great convenience, but unfortunately, they can end up being more problematic than a normal key. Anything that is associated with technology can offer many amazing conveniences and perks, but when it starts to malfunction, it can be more frustrating than issues with simply basic items. If you use a key for your vehicle that does not have a chip inside, then you physically have to put the key into the lock of the car door to open it. A transponder key means that you can unlock the vehicle without sticking the key in the lock. You merely press a button. Moreover, you can unlock your trunk and deactivate the vehicle’s alarm. When it comes to transponder keys, a transponder chip sends a special code to your vehicle’s computer. This frequency is only made to work with your specific vehicle. Obviously, this type of key is more expensive than a regular car key without chip technology. That’s because it makes life more convenient for you and makes it very challenging to steal a vehicle.

Transponder Key Problems

There are certain issues which can arise with transponder keys, and here, we will talk about some of them. 

• There is chip damage

Chip damage happens. If the chip does happen to be damaged, then one thing you might notice is that the transponder key does not work consistently. It will likely only work some of the time. If you have noticed that this is happening, then it is time to have the problem fixed. A lock and security provider will be able to work with chip damage. Be sure to check that the problem isn’t actually the battery – rather than pointing to chip damage, the issue could actually be that the battery in the key fob is weak.   

• The key is broken

Broken keys happen. But when it comes to a transponder key, you’ll have to turn to your local locksmith or even your dealership, and the cost can get expensive. You can rest assured that with a locksmith, you will likely spend less than you will at your dealership.   

• The transponder chip came out

Maybe you dropped your key hard, and the transponder chip fell out. This can happen if the casing pops open. You might be able to find the chip and simply put it back in. But if you didn’t realize the chip came out, you won’t be able to use the key without it. Transponder chip replacement can be costly if you go to your dealership or a mechanic so it is best to turn to a locksmith.   

• The key becomes bent

If you have a bent transponder key, you might still be able to use it, depending on the severity of the damage.   

• The key requires reprogramming 

If your transponder key is no longer working, you might need to have it reprogrammed. First, it is important to double check that the battery is still working. Locksmiths often get calls from locals who didn’t realize that the transponder key simply needed battery replacement. If you realize that the battery is working, and that the transponder key definitely needs to be reprogrammed, it is a wise idea to turn to a locksmith. 

• The transponder key was stolen

If your transponder key was stolen, that’s a very unfortunate situation. Luckily, many people have a copy of their transponder key so it won’t cause a huge amount of stress. Even if you already do have a spare, it is a good idea to have another one as a backup. An automotive locksmith will be able to provide transponder key duplication for your convenience, and often this rate will be much less than what you would pay at the dealership. 

Limiting Transponder Key Problems

You can’t always prevent problems but sometimes, you can lessen the chance of them occurring, at least when it comes to your transponder key. Here are some tips to avoiding transponder key problems. 

• Only use the transponder key on your vehicle.

This might sound like common sense, but you might be surprised at the creative ways people can come up with to use their key. Don’t use your key as a bottle opener. Don’t use your key to open items. Only use your key for your car. Using it for other purposes can cause it to become bent or to break completely.   

• Don’t throw your key.

Dropping or tossing your transponder key can lead to the chip falling out. Don’t play catch with it!  

• Don’t allow just anyone to use your key.

Don’t let someone you barely know have access to your transponder key. This could lead to it becoming stolen. Sure, this might sound like common sense, but you should be cautious not to allow anyone to have access to your key, unless that person is working on your vehicle (for instance, if you are having repairs done or an oil change) or happens to be a trusted friend or family member. 
For further information about transponder key problems, just reach out to your local locksmith professional. While some of the above information might seem like common sense to many, these issues still occur and motorists need to know where to turn when they do.