Vehicle Key Repairs
It's frustrating when your car key isn't turning in the ignition. It's usually an easy fix.
It may be as simple as lubricating your lock cylinder, which permits the pins to drop in a correct manner. The use of silicone-based lubricant will also prevent dirt particles from building up in the lock.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also known as "chip" keys, contain an electronic microchip embedded into the head made of plastic. While it's more difficult to duplicate a transponder key than a traditional metal one, the majority of locksmiths in the area can still do it. They'll use a special tool to duplicate an existing pre-programmed key and then put the chip in your car to enable it to function.
When you insert your transponder key into the ignition, it sends a signal to your car's antenna ring, and that signal must match your vehicle's identification code in order for the engine to begin. This technology can deter theft by making it virtually impossible for thieves to hot wire your vehicle to start it and then drive away.
Transponder systems are present in most modern cars. If yours isn't functioning properly, you'll have to consult a specialist. Transponder keys are designed to be hard to steal and protect your car's valuable contents. They aren't able to be copied as easily as a mechanical one, and many car manufacturers have anti-theft systems which disable the engine of your car if you use an untransponder.
Transponder keys were used for a long time to deter car theft. Before, car thieves would simply connect two wires to the ignition and start the engine - this was known as "hot wiring" and was easy to do. General Motors' Transponder Key was introduced in 1985, making it harder for old-fashioned and novice car thieves to take vehicles.
Although these key systems have helped prevent a lot of car thefts, there are those who attempt to circumvent them, so it's always recommended to have your car security regularly checked. If your key isn't functioning correctly or is 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 will bring back your peace of mind.
Smart Keys Keys
Some cars come with smart keys that are more sophisticated than a traditional car key. They can unlock doors and start your engine without the need to insert keys into locks. They also offer additional security and convenience features that could save you time and money.
Smart keys can communicate with your car using an identification system that uses radio frequencies also known as RFID. An antenna in your vehicle reads a signal from the key fob whenever it is within the range. The signal is unique and has a number that your vehicle recognizes and allows it to open a door or start the car. This technology also allows to secure your trunk and doors with a single push, even when the key fob isn't in the vehicle.
This system is designed to provide the protection of your car against theft. If the computer in your vehicle detects a signal coming from an invalid keyfob it will send out an encrypted code in a different format and issue a security alarm. It will also prevent the engine from being started, making it extremely difficult to take your car.
If you lose your smart-key it is recommended to contact the dealer to request an exchange instead of trying to make it yourself. To create a replacement key the dealer will require evidence of ownership and identification. However, they are able to assist you in getting an additional key much quicker than a locksmith.
There are some exceptions however. The dealership might be the only option if you have keys that are difficult or expensive to replace. In key fob repair near me might be able to save money by visiting your local locksmith instead of the dealership.
It used to be a major problem to lose your car keys. You might even have return to the dealer. Today, replacing car keys has become a much simpler procedure. Pop-A-Lock's experienced team can help you quickly replace your keys, regardless of whether they're damaged or lost.
Remote Fobs
Many vehicles come with keys that allow you to start your car as well as lock the doors and access other features. However, just like any electronic device, they may encounter issues from time occasion. Most times, it's nothing serious and can be repaired relatively easily.
One of the first things you should do when your car key fob begins acting up is to change the battery. YouTube videos will often walk you through the procedure step-by-step. If replacing the battery doesn't help, there are other steps you can take.
Take a look inside your key fob, and look at all the buttons. The buttons could become loose or broken when they are frequently used and jostled a lot. You can attempt to solder them back into place, or even replace them completely if you're comfortable working with electronics.
A issue with the receiver in your vehicle is another issue that could arise. If the signal from your key fob to the receiver is cut off and the car doesn't start or even open. The receiver also has the potential to stop working if the batteries in your key fob fail or are replaced.
Another possibility is that your fob has to be changed. The smart key systems in your vehicle depend on the transmitter in the fob and the receiver to recognize each other by using a code that is unique to your vehicle. The code is changed each time the fob is used. This keeps hackers from cloning and hacking signals to gain access to your vehicle.
If your fob stops working and you are in the middle of nowhere take a spare along with you to still unlock your car and get home in safety. This will give you an extra fob in the event that the primary one fails in future.
While having a spare key fob may seem like an unnecessary expense however, it can help you from the anxiety and hassle of being stranded with no option to start your car or get home. A spare fob can also save you the cost of having to contact a locksmith, or even breaking into your car when you are locked out.