4 Dirty Little Details About Vehicle Key Repairs And The Vehicle Key Repairs Industry
Vehicle Key Repairs
If your car's key isn't turning on the ignition, it's frustrating. But it's usually simple to repair.
It could be as easy as lubricating your lock cylinder, which allows the pins to drop correctly. The lubricant based on silicone can keep dirt particles out of being deposited in the lock.
Transponder Keys
A transponder keys, also known as a "chip" key, has an electronic micro-chip built into the plastic head of the car key. Although it is more difficult to duplicate a transponder key than a metal one, most local locksmiths can still do it. They'll use a specific tool to clone an existing pre-programmed key and then insert the chip inside your car to create a new one.
The engine will only begin when the transponder keys are inserted into the ignition. This sends a signal that has to be in line with the vehicle's identification number. This technology deters theft by making it almost impossible for thieves to hot wire your vehicle to start it up and then drive away.
Most modern cars have a transponder system, so you'll probably need a transponder key repair specialist if yours isn't working properly. Transponder keys were designed to make them hard to steal and safeguard the valuable contents of your car. They cannot be copied as easily as a mechanical key and many car makers have anti-theft devices that disable the engine of your vehicle in the event that you use the non-transponder.
Transponder keys for cars have been around for decades and have made a difference in stopping car theft off the track. Before, car thieves would simply connect two wires to the ignition and then start it up. This was known as "hot wiring" and was simple to accomplish. General Motors' Transponder Key was introduced in 1985, making it harder for novice and old-school car thieves to take vehicles.
While these key systems have helped to prevent a lot of car theft, there are still those who attempt to evade them, so it's always a good idea to have your car's security regularly checked. If your key is not working correctly or is damaged in any way, call your local Mesa locksmith immediately to have it fixed. They'll be able to help protect your vehicle from thieves and give you back your peace of mind.
Smart Keys Keys
Some cars come with smart keys, which are more sophisticated than a traditional car key. They can unlock doors and start your car without the need to insert keys into locks. They also come with convenience and security features that will save you time and money.
Smart keys connect to your car using a radio frequency identification system, or RFID. An antenna that is specifically placed on your vehicle reads signals from the key fob when it is within the range. The signal is unique and has a number that your vehicle recognizes, allowing it to open a door or start the car. This technology lets you secure the doors and trunk by pressing a button even if the key fob in the vehicle is not there.
This system is designed to guard your vehicle from theft. If the computer in your car detects a signal from an unreliable key fob, it will send a different encrypted message and activate a security alarm. It will also prevent the engine from starting making it impossible for someone to steal your car.
If you lose your smart-key it's best to call the dealer to request an exchange instead of trying to do it yourself. To make a new key the dealer will require proof of ownership and identity. They can often help you obtain one faster than a locksmith.
However there are exceptions. If you own a specific key that would be very expensive or difficult to replace, a dealership might be the only option. In these instances there is a chance that you could be able to save money by visiting your local locksmith instead of the dealership.
Losing a car keys was once a major deal, and it might require a trip to the dealership. Nowadays, replacing keys for cars is now a much simpler procedure. If your keys have been lost or have stopped functioning, the knowledgeable Pop-A-Lock team will provide a fast solution to help you avoid any additional charges.
Remote Fobs
The key fob is a convenient method to start your car, lock the doors and gain access to other features found in a variety of vehicles. Like any electronic device there are instances when they have problems. Most times the issue isn't serious and can be repaired relatively easily.
If your car's key fob is acting up, changing the battery should be the first step. YouTube videos often guide you through this process step-bystep. If replacing the battery doesn't help There are other methods you can take.
First, take a look inside your key fob and examine all the buttons. Since they see a lot of use and spend a lot of time in motion, the buttons may be damaged or even fall off. You can attempt to solder them back into place, or even replace them completely if confident working with electronics.
Another issue that may come up is an issue with the receiver inside your vehicle. If the signal from the key fob to the receiver is interrupted, the car won't start or open. The receiver also has the potential to stop working if the battery in your key fob fail or are replaced.
Another possibility is that your fob has to be modified. Your vehicle's smart key systems depend on the transmitter inside the fob and the receiver to recognize each other with an unique code to your vehicle. This code changes each time the fob is used, preventing attackers from cloning or hacking the signals and getting into your vehicle.
If your fob is acting up and you're stuck in the middle of nowhere, it's best to keep an extra in your pocket so that you can still unlock your vehicle and make it home safely. It also gives you a backup in case your main fob ceases to work in the future, ensuring that you don't end up stuck in a remote location.
It may seem unnecessary to have a spare key fob, but it can save you the stress of being left without a way to get your car started or get back to your home. Having car keys repair can also save you the expense of having contact a locksmith, or breaking into your vehicle when you are locked out.