7 Small Changes You Can Make That'll Make An Enormous Difference To Your Vehicle Key Repairs Vehicle Key Repairs

It's frustrating when your car's key won't turn in the ignition. It's usually a simple fix.


It could be as simple as lubricating the lock's cylinder, which permits the pins to drop properly. The lubricant made of silicone will stop dirt particles from getting into the lock.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also known as "chip" keys, are equipped with an electronic microchip embedded into the head of plastic. It's a bit more difficult to duplicate than a conventional metal key, however most locksmiths in your area can help you. They'll use a specific tool to duplicate an existing key programmed in advance and then put the chip in your vehicle to make it work.

When you insert your transponder keys into the ignition it transmits an electronic signal to the car's antenna ring. that signal must match with your vehicle's identification number in order for the engine to begin. This technology can deter theft by making it almost impossible for thieves to use hot wires on your vehicle to start it and then drive away.

The majority of modern vehicles have a transponder system and you'll likely need a transponder key repair specialist if yours isn't working properly. Transponder keys were 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 key, and many car brands have anti-theft mechanisms that disable your car's engine in the event that a non-transponder key is used.

Transponder car keys have been around for decades and have really helped to stop car theft in its tracks. Previously, car thieves would simply touch two wires to the ignition and start it up. This was known as "hot wiring" and it was very easy to do. General Motors' Transponder Key was introduced in 1985, making it more difficult for car thieves to steal vehicles.

It's a good idea, even though these key systems have prevented many car thefts, to make sure that the security of your car checked frequently. If your key isn't working correctly or it has become damaged in some way, you should call your local Mesa auto locksmith to get it repaired as quickly as you can. They'll help protect your vehicle from thieves, and will restore your peace of mind.

Smart Keys Keys

Certain cars come with smart keys that are more sophisticated than the traditional car key. They can unlock your doors and start the engine without ever needing to be inserted into a lock or turn the ignition. They also provide security and convenience features that can save time and money.

Smart keys connect to your car via a radio frequency identification system also known as RFID. A special antenna on your vehicle reads signals from the key fob whenever it is within range. The signal is a unique code that your car can recognize and allows it to open the doors or start the engine. This technology also allows to secure your trunk and doors with a button push, even when the key fob is not in the vehicle.

This system is designed to provide the protection of your vehicle against theft. If the computer inside your vehicle detects a signal coming from an invalid keyfob it will transmit an encrypted code in a different format and activate a security alert. It will also prevent the engine from starting, making it very difficult to take your vehicle.

If car key repair shop lose your smart-key it's best to call the dealership to get an exchange instead of trying to make it yourself. The dealer will require proof of identity and ownership to create the new key. They can often help you obtain one faster than locksmiths.

However there are exceptions. If you own a specific key that is expensive or difficult to replace, the dealer could be your only alternative. In these cases, you may still be in a position to save money by visiting your local locksmith rather than the dealership.

Losing a car keys was a huge problem, and may require a trip to the dealership. Replacing modern car keys is now a lot easier. Pop-A-Lock's experienced team can help you quickly replace your keys regardless of whether they're damaged or lost.

Remote Fobs

The key fob is a handy way to start your car, lock doors and gain access to other features of many vehicles. However, as with any electronic device, they can encounter issues from time moment. Luckily, most of the time it's not anything serious and can be fixed in a relatively simple manner.

If your car's key fob is acting up, replacing the battery is the first step. YouTube videos often guide you through the procedure step-by-step. If replacing the battery fails to work, you can try other methods.

Make sure you check all the buttons in your key fob. The buttons can be damaged or loose if they are used a lot and tossed around a lot. You can try soldering them back in place or even replace them completely if you are comfortable working with electronics.

A problem with your vehicle's receiver is another issue that could occur. If the signal from your key fob to the receiver is cut off, the car won't start or open. The receiver also has the potential to cease to function if the batteries in your key fob die or are replaced.

The last possibility is that your fob has to be reprogrammed. Your vehicle's smart key systems rely on the transmitter in the fob and the receiver to recognize each other with an unique code to your vehicle. The code changes every time the fob is used. This keeps hackers from copying and hacking the signals to enter your vehicle.

If your fob is acting up and you're stuck in the middle of nowhere, keep an extra in your pocket to ensure that you are able to unlock your vehicle and return in a safe manner. This will also provide you with an extra backup in the event that your main fob ceases to work in the near future, so that you don't end up trapped in the middle of nowhere.

While having a spare key fob may seem like a waste of money, it can save you from the anxiety and hassle of being stuck in a bind with no way to start your car or get home. You can also avoid the cost of a locksmith as well as breaking into your car if you lock yourself in.