Do you have a transponder car key? Even if you have an older car, the answer may be ‘yes’. The fact is, these keys, which feature an embedded microchip, have been deterring thefts for years.
“Transponder” is a combination of the words "Transmitter" and "Responder". When placed in the ignition, a transponder key transmits a radio signal containing a code number with 32 alpha-numeric digits. When the vehicle’s ECU (Engine Control Unit) recognizes that code, it allows your car to start. If the code does not match, the vehicle may start temporarily, then shut down, or it may not start at all. Criminals can’t simply force an ignition to turn over like the old days; no code, no car!
The electronic chip in the key is usually hidden under a plastic or rubber key head, which is why you may not know you have one. It has a “nonvolatile” memory and does not need a battery to operate. Instead, it is activated by the energy of the ECU on board the car when it asks the chip for the code.
The staff at American Locksmiths is very familiar with these types of keys. If your transponder key has been lost or stolen, or you simply want a spare, let our staff help you. We can either clone it by using reader/encoder hardware and writeable transponder chips, or program a new code into the car. Either way, we will have your duplicate transponder key in no time!
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