Transponder keys – problems

Transponder keys have paved the way for a drastic decrease in car theft. Most drivers, car dealers and even auto mechanics can’t say enough good things about these amazing keys that not only keep your car safer, they allow you to unlock your car, and even to start your engine remotely! How is all this even possible? Transponder key technology has been with us since the early 1990’s. In fact, most cars built from 1995 on use transponder keys to power the ignitions. In other words; it works! Is there a downside to transponder key usage? Only that they occasionally break or become lost! Fortunately, in Tampa, FL there are many places where you can get affordable and expertly done transponder key service; even on a 24-hour basis!

What makes it a transponder key?

Thousands of people use transponder keys without even knowing what they are or why they are special. 24/7 Tampa Locksmith offers this post to familiarize you with their characteristics and to give you some easy tips on how to deal with transponder key problems when they arise.

We all know what a key looks like. It has a blade of metal that has grooves and teeth cut into it, as well as a large rounded head to be used for holding and turning; so far; so good. Here is where a transponder key’s resemblance to a “regular” key ends.

In a transponder key, a programmable chip is embedded in the key’s head. This chip sends an electronic signal to your car’s computer when you turn on the ignition. If the computer “recognizes” the signal (they match) the engine starts. If not, forget about driving THIS car! See how it aids in theft prevention? Use the wrong key and no ignition starting!

Transponder key problems

Keys break or become lost no matter what they are made of, or what special programming went into them. Like the old saying goes “the more parts there are, the more that can go wrong!” and since transponder keys have specialized components, this holds very true.

The embedded computer chip can fall out. This happens on its own or when dropped. Sometimes, the key is dropped and then picked up but no one noticed the fallen-out chip still lying on the ground. By the time it is realized that the chip is missing, it is too late to find it or it has become damaged beyond repair. The key is not a total waste as it will still open the driver’s door and the trunk, but as far as the engine starting, there is no signal to send for the car’s computer to recognize.

Key breakage

Yep; transponder keys break, too. Here at 24/7 Tampa Locksmith we’ve heard every story in the book about how a customer’s transponder key broke. From using it to open heavy cardboard boxes to beer can puncture stabs, transponder keys often snap or break in half when used for the wrong reasons. Many times the broken transponder key was not misused at all; there was simply too much pressure applied to it when in the ignition. Of course, now the problem is intensified as you will need key extraction, transponder key programming AND transponder key duplication!

Stuck transponder key

Yes, your transponder key can become stuck. First of all, don’t panic! If you do, you won’t be able to think straight and this can make things worse. Be careful to NOT force your transponder key out of the ignition. As mentioned earlier, they can break. Usually the cause is simple so relax and check to see if the car is in the right gear. Your auto should be in the PARK gear; if it isn’t the transponder key will not come out. This is a built-in safety mechanism that protects you from accidentally removing the key while driving!