5 Laws That Anyone Working In Vehicle Key Repairs Should Know

Vehicle Key Repairs
It's frustrating when your car's key isn't turning in the ignition. It's generally a simple fix.
You can lubricate the lock cylinder to allow the pins to fall properly. The lubricant based on silicone can stop dirt particles from accumulating in the lock.
Transponder Keys
Transponder keys, also referred to as "chip" keys, have an electronic microchip embedded within the plastic head. It's a little more difficult to duplicate than a traditional metal key, however most local locksmiths can still assist you. They'll employ a specific tool to clone an existing key programmed in advance and then insert the chip in your vehicle to make it work.
When you insert your transponder key into the ignition, it sends a signal to your car's antenna ring, and that signal must match your car's identification code for the engine to get started. This technology can deter theft by making it almost impossible for thieves to hot wire your vehicle to start it and then drive off.
Transponder systems are found in all modern vehicles. If yours isn't operating correctly, you'll need to talk to a professional. Transponder keys are designed to be difficult to steal and protect your car's valuable contents. They cannot be copied as easily as a mechanical key and a lot of car manufacturers have anti-theft devices that disable the engine of your car when you are using a non-transponder.
Transponder keys have been in use for decades to prevent car theft. Before, car thieves would simply connect two wires to the ignition and then start it up. This was known as "hot wiring" and was simple to accomplish. General Motors' Transponder Key was introduced in 1985, making it harder for novice and old-school car thieves to take vehicles.
It's a good idea, even though these systems have stopped a lot of car thefts, to ensure that the security of your car examined regularly. If your key is not working correctly or is damaged in any way, contact your local Mesa locksmith immediately to have it fixed. They can help you keep your car safe and secure from thieves.
Smart Keys
Some cars are equipped with smart keys that are more sophisticated than the traditional keys for cars. They can unlock your doors and start the engine without having to be put into a lock or turn the ignition. They also provide convenience and security features that will save you time and money.
Smart keys can communicate with your car via the radio frequency identification system, or RFID. When the key fob is within range, a special antenna on your car reads the signal. The signal has a unique number that your vehicle recognizes which allows it to open a door or start the car. This technology allows you to secure the doors and trunk by pushing a button even when the key fob inside the vehicle is not present.
This system is designed to provide the protection of your vehicle against theft. If the computer inside your vehicle detects a signal from a keyfob that is not valid, it will send out an encrypted code in a different format and issue a security alarm. It will also prevent the engine from starting making it impossible for someone to steal your car.
In most cases, if you lose your smart key, it's best to contact your dealership to request a replacement instead of trying to replace it yourself. To make a new key the dealer will require proof of ownership and identity. However, they can usually assist you in obtaining a new one much faster than a locksmith could.
There are some exceptions, however. The dealership might be your only option if you have a key that is difficult or costly to replace. In such instances you can still save money by visiting a local locksmith instead of the dealership.
It used to be an enormous issue losing a car key. You may even have to return to the dealer. Thankfully, replacing modern car keys has become a much simpler process. Pop-A-Lock's expert team can help you quickly replace your keys whether they are broken or lost.
Remote Fobs
A lot of vehicles come with a key fob that allows you to start your car as well as lock the doors and access other features. But, like any electronic device, they may encounter issues from time moment. Fortunately, most of the time it's not a major issue and can be fixed with relative ease.
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 will walk you through the procedure step-by-step. If replacing the battery doesn't work, you can try other methods.
First, take a look inside your key fob, and look at all the buttons. The buttons can become loose or broken if they are frequently used and tossed around frequently. You can attempt to solder them back into place, or even replace them completely if you're comfortable working with electronics.
Another issue that may come up is a problem with the receiver that is in your vehicle. The key fob sends an indication to the receiver to open the car or start it but if the signal is cut off for any reason, it will not work. The receiver might be unable to function if key fob batteries die or are changed.
The fob could require reprogramming. The smart key systems in your vehicle depend 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, preventing hackers from cloning or hacking the signals and gaining access to your vehicle.
If your fob stops working and you're stuck in the middle of nowhere, keep a spare with you so you can still unlock your car and return home safely. This will also give you a backup in case your main fob stops working in the near future, so that you don't end up stranded somewhere.
While having a spare key fob may seem like a waste of money, it can save you from the stress and inconvenience of being stranded with no way to start your car or get home. You will also save the expense of a locksmith and breaking into your vehicle if lock yourself inside.