Vehicle Key Repairs
If your car key is refusing to turn in the ignition, it can be frustrating. But it's usually easy to repair.
It could be as easy as lubricating your lock cylinder, which allows the pins to drop properly. The silicone-based lubricant will also prevent dirt particles from accumulating in the lock.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also called "chip" keys, contain an electronic microchip embedded within the plastic head. It's a bit more difficult to duplicate than a traditional metal key, but most locksmiths in the area can still help you. They'll use a special tool to duplicate an existing key programmed in advance and then put the chip inside your vehicle to enable it to function.
The engine will start when the transponder key is inserted into the ignition. This sends a signal that must be in line with the vehicle's identification number. This technology helps discourage theft by making it nearly impossible for thieves to wire your car to turn it on and then drive off.
Most modern cars come with a transponder system which is why you'll likely require a specialist in repair of transponder keys in case yours isn't functioning properly. Transponder keys were created to make them more difficult to steal and secure the valuable contents of your car. They aren't copied with the same ease as a mechanical key and many car manufacturers have anti-theft mechanisms that disable the engine of your vehicle when a non-transponder keys are used.
Transponder keys have been in use for a long time to stop car theft. It was easy for thieves to open the car by putting two wires together. This was known as "hotwiring" and was extremely easy. However, when General Motors introduced their Transponder Key in 1985 and made it a little more difficult for old school and novice thieves to rob vehicles.
While these key systems have helped prevent a lot of car theft, there are still people who attempt to circumvent them, so it's a good idea to have your car security inspected regularly. If your key isn't functioning correctly or has been damaged in some way, you should contact your local Mesa auto locksmith to have it repaired as soon as you can. They'll be able to keep your car safe from thieves, and restore your peace of mind.
Smart Keys
Some cars are equipped with smart keys that are more sophisticated than the traditional keys for cars. They can unlock doors and start your engine without having to insert a key into a lock. They also come with security and convenience features that can save you time and money.
Smart keys can communicate with your car using a radio frequency identification system or RFID. If the key fob is in range, a special antenna on your vehicle reads the signal. The signal contains a unique number that your vehicle recognizes and allows it to open a door or start the car. This technology lets you secure the doors and trunk by pressing a button even when the key fob inside the vehicle is not present.
This system is designed to provide the protection of your car against theft. If the computer inside your car detects a signal from an unvalid key fob, it will transmit a different encrypted message and set off the security alarm. It will also stop the engine from running making it impossible for someone to steal your car.
In the majority of cases, when you lose your smart key, it is best to call your dealer to get a replacement, instead of trying to replace it yourself. To create a replacement key the dealer needs evidence of ownership and identification. They will often assist you to obtain one faster than locksmiths.
There are some exceptions however. The dealership may be your only option if you have keys that are expensive or difficult to replace. In such cases, you can still save money by visiting an area locksmith instead of the dealership.
Misplacing a car key used to be a big problem, and may have even required a trip back to the dealer. Nowadays, replacing keys for cars has become a much simpler procedure. If your keys have been lost or are not working, the skilled Pop-A-Lock team will provide a fast solution that will allow you to avoid any additional expenses.
Remote Fobs
Many vehicles come with a key fob that allows you to start your vehicle as well as lock the doors and access other features. But, like any electronic device, they could experience problems from time to moment. Most times the issue isn't serious and can be repaired relatively easily.
One of the first things you need to do when your car key fob is malfunctioning is to replace the battery. YouTube videos often guide you through this process step-bystep. If replacing the battery does not work then you can try different methods.
Take a look inside your key fob and check all the buttons. The buttons can break or become loose when they are used frequently and tossed around a lot. You can try to solder them back into place or even replace them completely if comfortable working with electronics.
Another issue that may come up is a problem with the receiver in your vehicle. If the signal from your key fob to the receiver is cut off, the car won't start or even open. The receiver also has the potential to cease to function if the batteries inside your key fob go out or are replaced.
Another possibility is that your fob has to be modified. Smart key systems in your vehicle are based on a unique code that can be used by the transmitter and receiver to identify the other. This code changes every time the fob is used, preventing hackers from cloning or hacking the signals and entering your vehicle.
If your fob isn't working and you are in the middle of nowhere, keep a spare with you so you can still unlock your car and return home in safety. repair car key fob will give you a backup fob in case the primary one fails in future.
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 running or home. You will also save the expense of a locksmith and the possibility of breaking into your car if you lock yourself inside.