How do key transponders work

Most car transponder chips have a similar process for key identification. There is an induction coil mounted around the ignition lock. This generates an electromagnetic field when a key is inserted into the ignition and turned. The windings in the key absorb that energy and use it to power the transponder chip which then emits the code signal to the ECU. The signal is most often an alphanumeric code. This process allows the electronic components in the car to function which in turn allows the engine to start or continue running.

Transponder keys make it more difficult for car thieves to steal your car because they are much harder to duplicate than regular keys.

Whereas any shopping mall key-cutter can fashion a duplicate out of your original keys in a few minutes, transponder keys need to be programmed by a car key programmer to work properly. Car key makers who offer transponder key replacements will use specialized equipment called Transponder Key Programming machines for this purpose.

The complexity of the process varies by vehicle make and model. Some cars will require the use of two working keys, while others require a unique pin that is available to the dealership or programmable by your trusted automotive locksmith. The complexities in duplicating transponder keys make it essential that you keep extra transponder keys just in case you misplace one.

If you only have the one that your dealer gave you, then ask for duplicates or call your car key programmer immediately. More enterprising thieves may not even need a duplicate key! Your Name required. Your Email required. Your Phone required.

Chicago Locksmith Tips. Play Video. More Video. How do Transponder Keys Work? Protective Coding Some other more simple chip key types are programmed with an identification number which the car recognizes. Copying Equipment You can tell the difference between the two keys being copied by the equipment the locksmith uses.

Get a free Quote. Non-Stop sent Chuck to do my door. I had to change keys because my abusive boyfriend finally moved out. He was very friendly and very professional. He even arrived about 5 minutes before the time he was supposed to be! He told me that he has worked for this company since they opened.

Locksmiths use the same equipment as car dealerships to replace remote car keys and program new ones. They have the skills to make a perfectly functional duplicate car key with a chip at a fraction of the price. This is probably the second most common question that locksmiths get about transponder key replacement. Getting a key with a microchip copied costs significantly more than traditional rekeying.

Additionally, car dealerships usually charge much more than car owners expect for a new transponder key. Microchips, located in the head of keys, are expensive for anyone to purchase, including dealerships and locksmiths. The traditional key part of the vehicle device can be copied quite easily and inexpensively. Without the microchip, you may be able to open the doors or roll down the windows. No, programming the key takes special equipment and skills. But your local locksmith, in addition to the car dealership, should be able to help.

You probably know the dreaded feeling that comes when you realize that you have accidentally locked your keys inside your car. If you find yourself standing on the outside of your car with your keys stuck inside, here are a few ways that you can try to unlock it.