Vehicle Key Repairs: 10 Things I Wish I'd Known Earlier Vehicle Key Repairs

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

It could be as simple as lubricating the lock's cylinder, which allows the pins to drop properly. The lubricant based on silicone can stop dirt particles from getting into the lock.

Transponder Keys

A transponder key, also known as"chip" keys, also known as "chip" key, is equipped with an electronic micro-chip built into the head of the car key. It's a bit more difficult to duplicate than a traditional metal key, but locksmiths in the area can still help you. They will use a special tool and the chip in your car to duplicate an already-programmed car key.

When you insert your transponder keys into the ignition, it sends an electronic signal to the car's antenna ring, and that signal must match with your vehicle's identification code in order for the engine to start. This technology helps discourage theft by making it virtually impossible for thieves to hot wire your car to turn it on and then drive away.

Transponder systems can be found in all modern vehicles. If yours isn't working properly, you'll need to speak with a professional. Transponder keys are designed to be hard to steal, and also to safeguard your car's valuable contents. They can't be copied with the same ease as a mechanical one, and many car brands have anti-theft devices that shut down the engine of your vehicle if a non-transponder key is used.

Transponder keys were used for a long time to stop car theft. It was simple for thieves to open the car by touching two wires together. This was called "hotwiring" and was extremely easy. But it changed when General Motors introduced their Transponder Key in 1985 and made it a little more difficult for old school and novice thieves to steal cars.

While these key systems have helped stop a large number of car theft, there are still people who try to get around them, which is why it's recommended to have your car security regularly checked. If your key isn't functioning properly or has been damaged in any way, contact your local Mesa locksmith as soon as you can to get it repaired. They'll be able to protect your vehicle from thieves, and will give you back your peace of mind.

Smart Keys Keys

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

Smart keys make use of a radio-frequency identification, or RFID system to connect with your vehicle. An antenna that is specifically placed on your vehicle reads signals from the key fob whenever it is within the range. The signal contains a unique number that your vehicle recognizes, allowing it to open a door or start the car. This technology allows you to lock the doors and trunk with a simple button push even when the key fob that is in the vehicle is not there.


This system is designed to provide the protection of your vehicle against theft. If the computer inside your vehicle detects a signal coming from a keyfob that is not valid, it will send out an encrypted code in a different format and activate a security alert. It also stops the engine from starting, making it very difficult to steal your vehicle.

In most cases, if you lose your smart key, it's best to contact your dealership to get a replacement, instead of trying to replace it yourself. To make key repair near me , the dealer will need evidence of ownership and identity. However, they will usually assist you in obtaining the new key faster than a locksmith.

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

It was once an enormous issue to lose your car keys. You may even have to return to the dealer. Thankfully, replacing modern 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 have key fobs that allow you to start your car and lock the doors and access other features. Like any electronic device, there are times when they're prone to problems. Fortunately the majority of the time it's nothing serious and can be resolved easily.

If your car key fob is acting up, changing the battery should be the first thing you do. You can often find a YouTube video online that walks you through the process step by step. If replacing the battery doesn't work, you can try other methods.

Make sure you check all the buttons in your key fob. Since they see a lot of use and spend a lot of time being jostled around and pushed around, they could become loose or even broken off. If you are familiar with electronics, you could try soldering the buttons back into place or replace them entirely.

Another issue that could pop up is a problem with the receiver in your vehicle. The key fob sends signals to the receiver to open the car or to start it but if the signal is interrupted for reasons of any kind, it won't work. The receiver is also prone to cease to function if the batteries inside your key fob go out or are replaced.

Your fob might need to be reprogrammed. Your vehicle's smart key systems depend on the transmitter inside the fob and the receiver to recognize each other by using an individual code unique to your vehicle. The code is changed every time the fob is used, preventing attackers from cloning or hacking the signals and getting into your vehicle.

If your fob is malfunctioning and you're in the middle of nowhere, you should keep a spare in your wallet to be able to unlock your vehicle and get home in a safe manner. This will give you a backup fob in case your main one stops working in the future.

It may seem unnecessary to have a spare key fob, but it can save you the stress of being left without a means to get your car running or return home. You can also avoid the cost of a locksmith as well as breaking into your vehicle if you lock yourself into.