Beginning in the late 90’s transponder chips began to be integrated into car keys. This was done to provide additional security to the vehicle. With this chip installed in the plastic cover on the bow of the key, a message could now be sent to tell the car that this key was more legitimate. This was meant to prevent things like hot wiring and slide hammer attacks. With a transponder key, simply copying the bitting on the key blade will not give you the ability to start the vehicle. When the car has the properly shaped key inserted, it sends out an electric charge. This powers the transponder chip, which allows it to send a message to the transceiver of the car.

When the transponder is not programmed or non-existent, the transceiver of the car will not get the correct message. This message is a digital key. The car will not start without both keys. Most often, transponder key programming will go hand in hand with cutting a new car key, but this is not always the case. Keys can be cut at a different location and then brought to the locksmith for transponder programming. This will require that the key that has already been cut does have a transponder chip in the assembly. If it does not, a new key that has a transponder will need to be cut. With the programing service customers can also elect to have the existing transponder keys removed from their car’s computer, so that no keys will work except for the new ones.

FAQs

What is a transponder key?

A transponder key is a car key that has a transponder chip inside of it. This is an additional security measure meant to increase the levels of proper user verification. The chip gives off a signal that communicates with your car’s transceiver. The transceiver is looking for the correct signal, so if there is no signal or the incorrect signal, the car will not start.

A car that requires a transponder key will not work without one. A key without the proper programming will still open the car doors, and trunk, but you will need the appropriate transponder key programming in order for the car to start.

Do I need to program my transponder key?

If you want your key to work in the ignition of your car, you must program the transponder key. Transponder key programming is not necessary for every single car. Some older vehicles only use the standard metal key with no supplemental electronic components.

In the instance that you do not want a key that will start your car, and all you are looking for is one that will open your exterior locks (doors and trunk), there is no need to program a transponder chip. When you have a transceiver in your car, there is no way to get around transponder key programming without undermining your own security.

How do I know if I have a transponder key?

Take a look at your car key. There is the metal piece that you place in the ignition (blade), and a larger flattened piece that you will use to turn the key once it is inserted (bow). If the bow of the key is covered in a plastic or rubber shell, then there is a good chance that there is a transponder chip inside. To be certain that this is the case, you can remove the plastic covering and look for the chip.

It is very important that you do not scratch or damage the chip during this process because that will make the key unusable in the ignition. You could also copy the key using a key cutter and see if it will start the car. If you attempt to start the car with just a metal key, keep the working key out of the vehicle, as this may give you a false positive.

The most foolproof method is to call an auto locksmith They can check to see if the key uses a transponder chip, and complete the transponder key programming if you would like to make a new fully functional key.

Do I need to purchase a new key?

If you would like to have another key, you or your local locksmith can make this purchase. In the event that you would like to purchase the key yourself, be wary of secondhand keys. These will be near impossible to recut and are most likely already programmed. Once the transponder key programming process has taken place, that chip cannot be reprogrammed to work with another car. The key must be blank.

That means that there are no cuts made and that the transponder chip has never been used. The key must also be appropriate for the car. If the key does not have the proper shape, then it will not fit into the keyway. Whenever you want someone else to do the work, trust the company that is going to do it right. United Locksmith always has your best interests at heart. Let us help you with every step of your transponder key programming.

How long does it take for transponder key programming?

Transponder key programming only takes a few minutes. This can be done with just the keys, or at the car itself. Additional time will be added if the key in question needs to be duplicated. If there is no key to duplicate, that is no problem, as our locksmiths can cut you a brand new key from code. This only requires us to take down your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), and then the new key can be cut.

All of these tasks do not take long, but they do add up. United Locksmith always ensures that services will be delivered in a fast and efficient manner. However, speed will not sacrifice quality. Trust the company that can do it all, and offers if all fast and for a fair price.

Does programming include a key cutting service?

Transponder key programming is a separate service from Key cutting but all of our technicians are equipped to do both. Programming a key will not do much for a key if it has not been cut. The key will need to fit into the ignition of the car in order to start the automobile.

The transponder chip is not the sole form of user identification. It must be used in conjunction with a properly cut car key. Just as a cut key will need transponder key programming to work in the ignition, the chip needs to have a key cut so that it can work in the ignition.

Can I program my transponder chip myself?

In some cases, you will be able to program your own transponder chip. Most often, this type of reprogramming will require the use of two working keys, but that will depend on the type of car you have. Transponder key programming can be tricky if you are trying to do it yourself. Each vehicle has its own process pattern and programming method.

You will need the exact information as it relates to your car if you would like to do this process yourself. From there, you will need all of the proper supplies. Rather than get frustrated by wasting time and money on methods that may not work, trust a locksmith to do it right the first time.