- USA Lock & Key
- April 14, 2022
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Can’t find your transponder keys and are worried you might not be able to get a copy? Find out how to get a transponder key copied, who can make one, what they cost, and more.
Locksmiths are receiving a lot of inquiries lately about transponder keys and how to obtain copies of them. Many automobile owners, for example, go to their dealership only to be charged extra for remote key duplicating. The thing is, you don’t have to go to a dealer to get your key copied – a locksmith can do it for you, and usually at a fraction of the cost. Learn about what is transponder key, how it improves security, how to get a copy, and why remote keys might be more expensive than you think.
What Are Transponder Keys and How Do They Work?
The transponder key is a small electronic chip built into the head of the key, which is why some people refer to them as chip keys. The microchip is pre-programmed by the manufacturer with a one-of-a-kind serial number. The receiver must detect the correct serial number in order to unlock or open, and it does so using RFID (radio frequency identification).
When you insert the key into the ignition, the chip sends a signal to the car’s computer, telling it that the key is authorized to start the engine. This transmitter key is recognized by the car’s computer and allows the car to start and operate normally. If the chip is damaged or missing, the car will not start. Transponder key systems are designed to prevent automobile theft and, as a result, they are an important part of your car’s security system or anti-theft system.
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Why Transponder Keys Are More Secure Than Traditional Keys
Transponders keys offer a higher degree of security for automobiles in two ways. They aid to discourage and prevent vehicle theft by making ‘hot wiring’ or unlocking the ignition lock ineffective. It won’t start if the car doesn’t detect the key’s microchip or precise serial number. While a traditional ignition key only has a few common cuts combinations, a transponder key has a digital ID that’s close to unique. The use of a digital identity opens up a lot more possibilities than using traditional cuts on a mechanical key, and it reduces the likelihood that someone else’s key will be used in your automobile.
Transponder Key Replacement Cost
As far as car maintenance goes, the cost of duplicating automobile keys with extra features (transponder chip, etc.) at a locksmith store starts at $120 depending on the car key blank you require. (Keep in mind that this price can also vary widely depending on where you live and what kind of car you have.)
The most expensive part of the process is cutting a new key. If you have a key with a transponder chip, you’ll need to program it before it will work with your car, but programming costs are often included in the price of cutting the key.
If you’re more financially savvy than we are, then you probably know that $120 isn’t exactly chump change. So why is replacing a transponder key so expensive? Well, there are two reasons:
- There’s no way to replace just the transponder chip itself because it’s embedded inside the key. This means that whenever your transponder break or is no longer working, you’ll have to replace the entire thing—key and transponder chip together.
- The cost of getting a new key cut and programmed correctly is sky-high because there’s no such thing as a universal car key. Each car has its own specific configuration, which means every time someone needs to replace their car keys they’ll need to get them cut and programmed specifically for their car.
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Trust a Local Locksmith to make a copy of a transponder Key?
Today more than 90% of cars on the road have transponder keys. Transponders are specifically designed to work with your car’s computer system, which means that no matter how much or how little you know about cars, it’s nearly impossible to reprogram them without specialized tools, supplies, and knowledge. This is why it’s important that you go to a qualified locksmith who has experience and training with this type of service!
If your transponder key goes lost, stolen, or stops working, it’s difficult to know who you should contact. Whether you need a new key, a new battery, or a new key programmed, we can help!
USA Lock & Key can also help you with all your lock and key needs in Las Vegas! We specialize in transponder keys and can provide you with a new one quickly and easily. We also offer key programming and replacements for those who have lost their keys. Give us a call today and we’ll be happy to assist you.
