Vehicle Key Repairs
It's frustrating when your car key isn't turning in the ignition. However, it's generally easy to repair.
Lubricate the lock's cylinder to let the pins fall correctly. The lubricant made of silicone will keep dirt particles out of accumulating in the lock.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as "chip" keys, contain an electronic microchip embedded in the plastic head. It's a bit more difficult to duplicate than a conventional metal key, but locksmiths in the area can still help you. They'll use a special tool to duplicate an existing key that has been programmed and then put the chip inside your car to create a new one.
When you insert your transponder keys into the ignition, it sends an electronic signal to the car's antenna ring, and the signal must match your vehicle's identification code in order for the engine to start. This technology can deter theft by making it virtually impossible for thieves to hot wire your vehicle to start it and then drive away.
Most modern vehicles include a transponder which is why you'll likely require a transponder key repair specialist when yours isn't working correctly. Transponder keys were designed to make them difficult to steal and secure the valuable contents of your car. They can't be copied with the same ease as a mechanical key, and many car brands have anti-theft mechanisms that disable the engine of your vehicle in the event that a non-transponder key is used.
Transponder keys have been in use for decades to prevent car theft. In the past, thieves would simply connect two wires to the ignition and then start it up - this was called "hot wiring" and was simple to accomplish. However, when General Motors introduced their Transponder Key in 1985 and made it a little more difficult for old school and novice car thieves to steal vehicles.
Although these key systems have helped to stop a large number of car theft, there are still those who attempt to circumvent them, so it's an excellent idea to have your vehicle security inspected regularly. That means that if your key isn't functioning correctly or it has become damaged in some way, you should contact your local Mesa auto locksmith to get it repaired as quickly as possible. They'll help keep your car safe from thieves, and will give you back your peace of mind.
Smart Keys
Certain cars have smart keys, which are more sophisticated than a traditional car key. They can unlock your doors and turn on the engine without ever needing to be inserted into a lock or turning the ignition. They also offer convenience and security features that can save you time and money.
Smart keys communicate with your car using an identification system that uses radio frequencies or RFID. If the key fob is in the range of a specific antenna on your car reads the signal. The signal is unique and has a number that your vehicle recognizes and allows it to open a door or start the car. This technology also makes it possible to secure your trunk and doors with a button push, even when the key fob is not inside the vehicle.
This system is designed for the protection of your car against theft. If the computer inside your vehicle detects a signal from an unreliable key fob, it will transmit an encrypted message that is different and trigger an alarm for security. It will also stop the engine from being started, making it extremely difficult to take your vehicle.
If you lose your smart-key, it's best to contact the dealership to get a replacement rather than try to make it yourself. The dealer will require proof of identity and ownership to create the new key. They will often assist you to obtain one faster than locksmiths.
There are exceptions, however. If you have a special key that would be very expensive or difficult to replace, the dealership may be your only option. In these cases you might be able to save money by visiting your local locksmith rather than the dealership.
It was once a major problem losing a car key. You might even have to return to the dealer. Replacing keys for modern cars is now much simpler. Pop-A Lock's knowledgeable team can assist you quickly replace your keys, regardless of whether they're damaged or lost.
Remote Fobs
A lot of vehicles come with keys that allow you to start your car as well as lock the doors and access other features. But, like any electronic device, they could experience problems from time to occasion. Most times the issue isn't serious and can be fixed easily.
One of the first things you need to do if your car's key fob starts malfunctioning is to replace the battery. You can often find a YouTube video on the internet that walks you through the process step by step. But if replacing the battery does not help There are other methods you can take.
Make sure you check all the buttons in your key fob. The buttons may be damaged or loose if they are used a lot and jostled a lot. You can try soldering them back into place or even replace them completely if comfortable working with electronic devices.
Another issue that could pop up is a problem with the receiver that is in your vehicle. If the signal from your key fob to the receiver is interrupted, the car won't start or open. The receiver is also prone to stop working if the batteries in your key fob fail or are replaced.
The fob could need to be reprogrammed. Smart key systems in your vehicle are based on a unique code to be used by the receiver and transmitter to recognize them. This code changes each time the fob is used, preventing hackers from copying or hacking the signals and entering your vehicle.
If your fob is malfunctioning and you're in the middle of nowhere, keep a spare in your wallet to be able to unlock your vehicle and make it home in a safe manner. This will provide you with a backup fob in case your primary one fails in future.
It may seem insignificant to have an extra key fob but it could ease the anxiety of being stuck without a means to start your car or get back to your home. Having broken key repair will also help you avoid the expense of having to call for a locksmith or gaining entry to your vehicle when you are locked out.