What Is a Transponder Key?
Transponder is short for “transmitter and responder”. A transponder key or “smart key” is a high security key that is equipped with a computerized transponder chip. This transponder chip is a small computer chip (embedded in the plastic body of the head of the key) that sends a response signal to the vehicle when prompted. The ignition lock of the car has an antenna ring on or somewhere near it that broadcasts this signal. When the key is placed in the ignition and turned on the chip in the key receives a radio signal from the car and sends back a computer encoded password signal to the car. Basically the car asks the key “are you an authorized key to start this car?” and if the key says “Yes”, then the car starts, if the key says “No” then the car’s onboard computer doesn’t let the car start and will sometimes trigger a passive security response and shut down engine functions temporarily. Some car companies started adding transponder systems to their vehicles as early 1995 to cut down on vehicle theft.
What If I Lose a Transponder Key or Want a Duplicate?
We can generate, duplicate and program transponder keys for about 90% of the cars on the road today. Our mobile service can come to your car and make the keys on the spot, saving you towing and parking fees.
The equipment and expertise involved in programming transponder keys is much greater than regular car keys. The average price to replace a lost transponder key can start at $150 and up, the price varies by make and model. Duplicate transponder keys start at about $45 and also vary by make and model. We recommend getting duplicates of your car keys so you have at least 3 working copies at all times. |
