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 usually a simple fix.
You can lubricate the lock's cylinder to let the pins fall correctly. Using silicone-based lubricant also prevents dirt particles from accumulating inside the lock.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip" keys, have an electronic microchip embedded in the head of plastic. Although it is more difficult to duplicate the transponder key than a traditional metal one, most locksmiths in the local area are still able to accomplish it. They'll use a specific tool to clone an existing key programmed in advance and then use the chip inside your vehicle to create a new one.
When you insert your transponder key into the ignition it transmits an alert to your car's antenna ring. the signal must match your car's identification code for the engine to start. This technology helps discourage theft by making it almost impossible for thieves to use hot wires on your car to start it and then drive off.
Transponder systems can be found in the majority of modern automobiles. If yours isn't functioning properly, you'll have to speak with a professional. Transponder keys have been designed to make them difficult to steal and secure the valuable contents of your car. They aren't copied with the same ease as a mechanical one, and a lot of car brands have anti-theft devices that shut down the engine of your vehicle when a non-transponder keys are used.
Transponder keys have been used for decades to prevent car theft. It was simple for thieves to get into the car by connecting two wires to each other. This was known as "hotwiring" and was easy. However the moment General Motors introduced their Transponder Key in 1985 and made it little more difficult for old-school and novice thieves to rob vehicles.
Although these key systems have helped keep a lot of cars from theft, there are still people who attempt to circumvent them, so it's always recommended to have your vehicle security regularly checked. This means that if your key isn't functioning correctly or has been damaged in any way, you need to contact your local Mesa auto locksmith to have it repaired as soon as you can. They'll be able to help protect your vehicle from thieves and bring back your peace of mind.
Smart Keys
Certain cars have smart keys that are more sophisticated than a standard car key. They can open your doors and turn on the engine without needing to be inserted into a lock or turning the ignition. They also provide security and convenience features that can save time and money.
Smart keys use the radio-frequency identification, also known as RFID system, to communicate with your vehicle. An antenna in your vehicle reads signals from the key fob whenever it is within range. The signal contains a unique number that your vehicle recognizes, allowing it to open a door or even start the car. This technology lets you secure the trunk and doors by pushing a button even if the key fob in the vehicle is not present.
This system is designed to safeguard your vehicle from theft. If the computer in your vehicle detects a signal from an invalid key fob, it will transmit an encrypted message to activate a security alarm. It will also stop the engine from starting, making it very difficult to take your car.
In most cases, if you lose your smart key, it is best to contact your dealership 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 can often help you get one quicker than a locksmith.
There are car key fob repair service , however. The dealership may be the only option if you have keys that are expensive or difficult to replace. In these cases there is a chance that you could be able to save money by visiting your local locksmith rather than the dealership.
Misplacing a car key was a huge problem, and may be required a trip back to the dealership. Today, replacing keys for cars has become a much simpler procedure. Whether yours have simply been lost or are no longer functioning, the knowledgeable team at Pop-A-Lock will provide a fast solution that will allow you to avoid any additional costs.
Remote Fobs
Many vehicles have key fobs that allow you to start your car, lock the doors, and access other features. However, as with any electronic device, they may have issues from time to occasion. Most of the time, it's nothing serious and can be fixed easily.
One of the first things you need to do if your car's key fob starts acting up is to change the battery. You can usually find a YouTube video online that walks you through the process step-by-step. If replacing the battery isn't helping, there are other steps to try.
The first step is to look inside your key fob and check all the buttons. Since they get heavy use and spend much time being jostled around the buttons could be loosened or even broken off. If you're experienced with electronics, you can try soldering the buttons back into place or replace them completely.
Another issue that may come up is a problem with the receiver in your vehicle. The key fob sends signals to the receiver to open the car or start it but if the signal is cut off for reasons of any kind, it won't function. The receiver also has the potential to stop working if the battery in your key fob fail or are replaced.
The last possibility is that your fob requires to be changed. Your vehicle's smart key systems depend on the transmitter inside the fob and the receiver to recognize each other using an individual code unique to your vehicle. The code is changed every time the fob is used, which prevents attackers from cloning or hacking the signals and gaining access to your vehicle.
If your fob is acting up and you're stuck in the middle of nowhere, keep a spare in your pocket so that you can still unlock your car and make it home safely. It also gives you an alternative in the event that your primary fob fails to function in the near future, so you don't get stranded somewhere.
It may seem unnecessary to have an extra key fob but it could save you the anxiety of being stuck without a way to get your car started or home. You can also avoid the cost of a locksmith as well as breaking into your vehicle if you lock yourself in.