Transponder Keys, Problems

Problems can be had with transponder keys, with regard to the chip inside of the key, or even with the actual key. You want this type of key because it offers convenience and security, but you have to be aware of the fact that things can go wrong. The good news is, there are answers! This article is going to discuss transponder keys and problems – we are basing the information off problems our customers frequently have been faced with. We have been able to offer solutions and, in some cases, we can save them from needing to have one of our experts go out to help them. We are all about helping our customers to save money because our focus is on being there for them. We hope the information we provide helps you out, too!

To start – what are transponder keys? For what reason are they so good to have? In a nutshell, this is a key that is connected to your car thanks to a very small part – a chip. When you get close to your car, your ignition receives a signal from the chip. Thanks to this, you can turn the key in the ignition and start the car. It’s good for anti-theft purposes in addition to offering convenience. 

When you bought your car, the most likely situation is you were given two transponder keys to go with it, assuming you bought the car from a dealership. It’s good to always have a spare key, because things can go wrong. Lockouts can occur. Keys can get stolen.

They can go missing. So, you want to have a copy.  But let’s say you don’t have your copy, and you have a problem with the one transponder key that you do have. Here, find some potential scenarios and our thoughts on them. They just might help you if you are ever stuck in a bind – or in a parking lot.

Wet Transponder Key Chip 

If the chip that is inside of your key somehow ends up wet, then transponder key programming is what you just may end up needing. The damage might not be fixable, although you can always attempt to dry it out.  

Ignition Will Not Turn

If you go to turn the key in the ignition but it does not work, it might be the chip that is the culprit. Perhaps, for instance, the right code isn’t making its way to the car. Why would this happen? It could be because of a damaged chip or it could be water damage. It could be that there is debris in the ignition and in this case, using pressurized air might solve the concern. It’s worth it to talk with a locksmith about this if you have attempted to resolve the concern to no avail.  

The Key Was Not Programming Correctly 

We know if you browse the Internet, there is no shortage of videos and articles detailing how to program a transponder key as a DIY project. But here’s the problem – anyone can post online, and often times the information you will read is not accurate. Don’t assume you can save money this way because if you make a mistake, you will just end up wasting your money and your time. We certainly recommend talking to an expert because you could otherwise end up ordering the wrong parts or you could make a mistake that ends up causing more damage. No one wants to waste their time especially when the goal is to just get back on the road.

Key Battery Is Dead

Do you think the key battery has died? If so, you might just need a new battery! But let’s say you changed the battery and nothing is working. The issue could be with engine control. Or it could be something else. It’s certainly worth it to consider that the battery might have run out, but if you do realize this is not what happened, again, talk to an automotive locksmith. Why? This is an expert who is going to be skilled to help you for lock and key problems with your vehicle. A specialized, licensed expert should have experience with the locks and keys for all makes and models, such as Hyundai, Ford, Mazda, Nissan, GM, Kia, Toyota, Lexus, BMW, Chrysler, Mercedes, Honda, and more.  

If you still have questions about transponder key problems then try contacting an expert for advice. But it is our hope that thanks to this article, you have a bit more knowledge regarding some of the problems that might come up at some point in time. A couple of the issues have fairly easy solutions, and others need to be handled by an expert.