20 Myths About Vehicle Key Repairs: Dispelled
Vehicle Key Repairs It's frustrating when your car's key isn't turning in the ignition. It's generally an easy fix. Lubricate the lock's cylinder to let the pins to fall properly. Using silicone-based lubricant also prevents dirt particles from getting accumulated inside the lock. Transponder Keys A transponder key, also known as a “chip” key, has an electronic microchip embedded in the head of the plastic car key. It's more difficult to duplicate than a conventional metal key, however most local locksmiths can still do it for you. They'll employ a specific tool to clone an existing key programmed in advance and then put the chip in your car to make it work. When you insert your transponder keys into the ignition it transmits an alert to your car's antenna ring, and that signal must match your vehicle's identification code in order for the engine to start. This technology deters theft by making it impossible for thieves hot wire your vehicle to start it and drive away. Most modern cars include a transponder which is why you'll likely require an expert in transponder key repair in case yours isn't functioning properly. Transponder keys have been created to make them more difficult to steal and safeguard the valuable contents of your car. They cannot be copied as easily as a mechanical one and many car makers have anti-theft systems which disable the engine of your vehicle if you use a non-transponder. Transponder keys for cars have been around for decades and have really been able to stop car theft off the track. It was simple for car thieves to start the car by connecting two wires together. This was known as “hotwiring” and was very easy. General Motors' Transponder Key was introduced in 1985, making it more difficult for old-fashioned and novice car thieves to take vehicles. It's a good idea, even though these key systems have prevented a number of car thefts to have the security of your car checked frequently. If your key isn't working properly or is damaged in any way, call your local Mesa locksmith as soon as you can to have it fixed. They can help you keep your vehicle safe and secure from thieves. Smart Keys Keys Certain vehicles are equipped with smart keys that are more sophisticated than traditional car keys. They can open your doors and turn on the engine without ever needing to be inserted into a lock or turning the ignition. In addition, they offer added security and convenience features that could save your time and money. key fob repair communicate with your car using the radio frequency identification system, or RFID. A special antenna on your vehicle reads a signal from the key fob whenever it is within range. The signal is a unique code that your car recognizes and allows it to open the doors or start the engine. This technology allows you to secure the trunk and doors by pushing a button even if the key fob in the vehicle isn't present. This system is designed for the protection of your car against theft. If the computer in your car detects an unreliable key fob, it will send a different encrypted message and set off the security alarm. It will also stop the engine from running making it more difficult for thieves to steal your car. In the majority of cases, when you lose your smart key, it's best to contact your dealership for a replacement, rather than trying to replace it yourself. To make a new key the dealer will require evidence of ownership and identity. However, they are able to assist you in getting the new key faster than a locksmith could. However there are exceptions. 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 a local locksmith instead of the dealership. Losing a car keys was once a major issue, and could require a trip to the dealer. Nowadays, replacing car keys has become a much simpler procedure. Pop-A Lock's knowledgeable team can assist you quickly replace your keys, regardless of whether they're damaged or lost. Remote Fobs The key fob is an easy method to start your car, lock the doors, and access other features found in a variety of vehicles. Like all electronic devices there are instances when they're prone to problems. However the majority of the time it's nothing serious and can be resolved in a relatively simple manner. If your car key fob is acting up, changing the battery should be the first thing you do. You can usually find a YouTube video online that walks you through the process step by step. If replacing the battery fails to work you can try other methods. Check all the buttons inside your key fob. Since they see a lot of use and spend much time being tossed around, the buttons may be damaged or even fall off. You can attempt to solder them back in place or even replace them completely if comfortable working with electronics. Another issue that could pop up is a problem with the receiver inside your vehicle. The key fob sends an indication to the receiver to open the car or to start it, but if that signal is interrupted for reasons of any kind, it won't function. The receiver is also likely to stop working if the battery in your key fob fail or are replaced. Another possibility is that your fob requires to be reprogrammed. Smart key systems in your vehicle rely on a unique code that can be used by the receiver and transmitter to identify each other. The code is changed each time the fob's used. This stops attackers from cloning and hacking signals to gain access to your vehicle. If your fob is acting up and you're stuck in the middle of nowhere, you should keep a spare in your pocket to be able to unlock your car and make it home safely. This will also give you an alternative in the event that your primary fob fails to function in the future, so you don't get stuck in a remote location. It may seem unnecessary to have an extra key fob but it can save you the anxiety of being stuck without a means to start your car or get back to your home. You can also avoid the expense of a locksmith as well as breaking into your car if you lock yourself in.