Vehicle Key Repairs

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

It could be as easy as lubricating your lock cylinder, which permits the pins to drop correctly. The use of silicone-based lubricant can also stop dirt particles from accumulating within the lock.

Transponder Keys

Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip" keys, contain an electronic microchip embedded into the head made of plastic. It's 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 vehicle to clone a pre-programmed car key.

The engine will only begin when the transponder key is inserted into the ignition. This sends a signal that has to be in line with the vehicle's identification number. This technology prevents theft by making it nearly impossible for thieves hot wire your vehicle to turn it on and then drive off.

The majority of modern vehicles have a transponder system, so you'll probably need an expert in transponder key repair in case yours isn't functioning properly. Transponder keys have been created to make them more difficult to steal and secure the valuable contents of your car. They cannot be copied as easily as a mechanical key and many car makers have anti-theft mechanisms that shut down the engine of your car in the event that you use a non-transponder.

Transponder keys repair were used for decades to prevent car theft. In the past, thieves would just touch two wires to the ignition and start the engine - this was known as "hot wiring" and was easy to do. However, when General Motors introduced their Transponder Key in 1985, they made it a little more difficult for old school and novice car thieves how to repair car key fob steal cars.

It's a good idea, even though these systems have prevented many car thefts to have the security of your car monitored regularly. If your key is not working properly or has been damaged in any way, contact your local Mesa locksmith as soon as you can to fix it. They'll help keep your car safe from thieves, and give you back your peace of mind.

Smart Keys

Certain cars have smart keys, which are more sophisticated than the traditional car key. They can unlock your doors and turn on the engine without ever needing to be put into a lock or turn the ignition. Additionally, they provide convenience and security features that could save you time and money.

Smart keys communicate with your car via a radio frequency identification system or RFID. An antenna that is specifically placed on your vehicle reads a signal from the key fob whenever it is within range. The signal is a unique code that your car recognizes and allows it to open the door or start the engine. This technology allows you to lock the trunk and doors by pushing a button even if the key fob in the vehicle isn't present.

This system is designed to provide the protection of your car against theft. If the computer in your vehicle detects a signal from an invalid key fob, it will transmit an encrypted message to trigger an alarm for security. It will also stop the engine from beginning, making it difficult to steal your car.

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

There are exceptions however. The dealership might be the only option in case you have a key that is difficult or expensive to replace. In these cases you can still save money by going to a local locksmith instead of the dealership.

Losing a car keys was once a major problem, and may have even required a trip back to the dealer. Thankfully, replacing modern keys for cars is now an easier process. Pop-A-Lock's expert team can help you quickly replace your keys regardless of whether they're damaged or lost.

remote control car key repairs; read this, Fobs

Many vehicles come with a key fob that allows you to start your car, lock the doors, and access other features. However, just like any electronic device, they could encounter issues from time time. Most of the time it's not a major issue and can be repaired relatively easily.

One of the first things you should do if your car key fob begins acting up is to change the battery. YouTube videos will often walk you through the procedure step-by-step. However, if replacing the battery does not help you, there are other options that you can try.

First, take a look inside your key fob and examine all the buttons. Because they are used frequently and spend much time in motion the buttons could be loosened or even broken off. You can try soldering them back into place, or even replace them completely if you're confident working with electronics.

Another issue that may come up is a problem with the receiver inside your vehicle. If the signal from the key fob to the receiver is interrupted and the car doesn't start or open. The receiver is also prone to stop working if the batteries in your key fob die or are replaced.

The fob could require reprogramming. The smart key systems of your vehicle rely on the transmitter in the fob and the receiver to recognize each other using an individual code unique to your vehicle. This code changes each time the fob is used. This prevents attackers from cloning and hacking the signals to get into your vehicle.

If your fob is malfunctioning and you're in the middle of nowhere, you should keep a spare in your pocket to ensure that you are able to unlock your vehicle and make it 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 insignificant 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 home. Having one can also save you the expense of having contact a locksmith, or gaining keyless entry repairs to your vehicle when you are locked out.