Transponder Key Programming in Los Angeles
Transponder keys should not be confused with car key fobs and keyless entry remotes. Although each of these devices is somewhat similar, they each have specific actions and purposes when it comes to your vehicle. Transponder keys help increase the level of security that drivers get out of their vehicles. This is thanks to the presence of a transponder chip inside your car key, which is responsible for communicating with a transceiver in your car.
The purpose of having your transponder chip communicate with the transceiver is to limit the access unauthorized individuals have to your vehicle. The transceiver in the car is always primed to receive the correct signal emitted from the transponder chip, and if it does not receive this signal, the car will not start. Some vehicles even prevent you from manually unlocking the door if the transponder key is not present.
How Transponder Keys Are Programmed
Pairing your transponder key to the transceiver housed in your vehicle is the term referred to as transponder key programming, and it is essential to making sure that drivers are getting the most out of their cars and car keys. A transponder key can be programmed in two distinct ways.
The first method is on board programming. In order to be able to program the transponder key properly, you will already need to have access to a properly cut transponder key. The on boarding process simply allows you to pair an additional working key to the transceiver in the car. In order to carry out on board programming, the auto locksmith will have to access your car’s diagnostic port.
In lieu of on board programming, the transponder key can be programmed remotely if the working transponder key is available. The automotive locksmith team from Locksmith Pros USA is equipped with the knowledge and tools to help you remotely program your transponder key. It should be noted that not all car keys can be programmed remotely, so it is best to discuss this with our automotive locksmith beforehand.
FAQs
Are all car keys transponder keys?
Not all car keys are transponder keys. In the context of automotive history, transponder keys are a fairly new development, even though they have been around since the late 90s. Most of the car keys that are paired with modern vehicles are transponder keys. However, vehicles that were made before the inception of the transponder key do not use transponder keys, unless they have been retrofitted to work with one.
What is the difference between a transponder key and a car key fob?
Some drivers often use the terms transponder key and car key fob interchangeably, although they are two very different tools. They do share some similarities, but overall they are not the same. A key fob is a wireless remote that can be used to control specific actions in your vehicle. For instance, starting the car or turning on the heat. However, a transponder key is limited in the interaction and control it has over your vehicle.
Why does a transponder key have to be programmed to my car?
If your transponder key is not programmed to your vehicle, you will not be able to use some features in your car. Transponder keys are paired with vehicles by establishing a working chain of communication between the chip used in the key and the chip housed in the body of the vehicle. If there is no line of communication established, your car key will not work with your car, seemingly leaving you stranded.
What happens if my transponder key is not programmed to my vehicle?
If your transponder key is not programmed to your vehicle, you will not be able to operate your car. If you have a transponder key that is not programmed, contact Locksmith Pros USA. Our automotive locksmith offers transponder key programming services to help you get your key working the way it should be.
Is transponder key programming a service for only new car keys?
Not at all! New cars will not usually need transponder key programming services because the car key had already been paired with the vehicle. However, if you utilize car key cutting services to get a replacement car key, you are likely going to need to transponder key programming services. Also, if you happen to get a duplicate car key made, the duplicate will have to be programmed if it is meant to be used with a modern vehicle.