There are many reasons why people need to get a transponder key replacement. Read to learn how to get a transponder key replacement and why you should use a locksmith vs. a dealership.

How to Get a Transponder Key Replacement

If you’re having a bad day, maybe you lost your transponder key, or maybe it broke. However, there’s no reason to panic or get overly upset. A locksmith can help you with a transponder key replacement quickly and easily. A mobile locksmith can even come to you, wherever you are. This helps ease the stress of losing or breaking your key.

You may be wondering what a transponder key is, or if you have one. In this article, we will explore what they are, why they are secure, and how to program a transponder key. Next, we will detail how to get a transponder key replacement. Lastly, we will explain the benefits of choosing a locksmith to replace your transponder key.

What is a Transponder Key

Transponder key

A transponder key is a key that uses a microchip to transmit low-level signals to the car. It is typically located at the top of the key. A transponder key is safer than a traditional key because it is programmed with a unique serial number. Using radio frequency identification, the receiver must validate the serial number. If it doesn’t match, the car will not start.

Many newer vehicles have a transponder key. If your car has a push-button ignition, it likely has a transponder key. You can check if your vehicle has a transponder key by searching on Google for your car’s make and model. Also, these keys tend to be thicker. Although they cost more to produce and replace, they can prevent your car from being stolen.

Why are Transponder Keys More Secure?

Transponder keys are more secure in two different ways. Firstly, it prevents theft by making it impossible to break your ignition lock or “hot-wire” your car. If your vehicle doesn’t detect the key’s microchip, it won’t start. This makes stealing your car much more difficult. Secondly, unlike keys that have similar combinations of cuts, transponder IDs are unique. As a result, it’s much harder for someone to use someone else’s key in your car. This helps provide a much higher level of security for your vehicle.

How to Program a Transponder Key

Here is a step-by-step guide to programming your transponder key without the original.

  1. Get inside your car and put the transponder key in the ignition. Turn the ignition on and keep it on for 10-11 minutes. During this process, keep an eye on the dashboard of your car. The security lights should turn on. If the light doesn’t turn on, recharge or replace the car battery.
  2. When the security lights illuminate, wait 15 minutes. Be sure to time it, either with your phone or a watch.
  3. After 15 minutes, the lights should turn off. After 3 minutes, turn off the ignition by turning your transponder key. Then turn it on once more. The security lights will come back on. Wait 15 minutes before turning it off again.
  4. After the security lights turn off, wait another 3 minutes. Turn the key off and then on. The security lights will come on for 15 minutes, and then go off. That should be a total of 45 minutes, and your car is now programmed to the transponder key.

How to Get a Transponder Key Replacement

Car keys

If your transponder key is broken or has been lost, it’s time to call a locksmith to get a replacement. You may be wondering where to go and if it will break the bank.

It’s important to consider price, time, and convenience when obtaining a replacement. While car dealerships can replace transponder keys they often come at a heftier price. In addition, vehicle dealers do not come to you, even if you are on the side of the road. This can lead to a long day of trying to get to the dealership and back. Furthermore, car dealerships often charge a 300% profit margin. However, locksmiths can do the same work for 50% less on average (A-1 Locksmiths). A mobile locksmith can come to you, wherever you are, saving you time and money. We recommend getting two copies of the transponder key, so that you can avoid this same issue in the future.

If you need a transponder key replaced, call your Atlanta Locksmith, Crown Locksmith.

​​Crown Locksmith provides automotive locksmith services. They are an experienced and reputable locksmith with over 12 years in business and a 4.8 rating on Google. Crown Locksmith is a mobile locksmith and they will come to you to fix your car key. Choose an established, highly-rated locksmith to ensure the work is done correctly. Contact Crown Locksmith with any questions.

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Sources:

A1Lock, Carpart, GVLock, Locksmiths Online