Modern keys may have amazing anti-theft security measures but are just as easy to misplace. Getting a replacement for a regular mechanical key is relatively simple. But a transponder key on the hand is a much more complicated affair. Here is what to do if you do lose your car’s transponder key.

If you are having car lock troubles and feel lost, call us immediately at (02) 9158 3200 for assistance. Our auto locksmiths are ready 24/7 to come to you and provide emergency car key replacements anywhere in Sydney.

How Does a Transponder Key for Cars Work?

A transponder key works by using radio frequency identification (RFID) to let your car know that it is safe to unlock and disable the immobiliser. A special microchip inside the key allows it to communicate with your car. The chip inside is why a transponder car key is also referred to as a chip key.

The transponder chip is programmed with a unique serial number by the manufacturer. Your car computer actively checks for the correct serial number using RFID. If it is not detected it will refuse to work. They are more complex and costly to manufacture and replace. It’s worth mentioning that the improvement in vehicle safety and security more than makes up for the extra cost.

Push-button-start vehicles rely on transponder keys, although they are not the only ones. Cars employing transponder keys will only start if the vehicle locates its unique key nearby.

Car manufacturers install a receiver inside your car near the ignition switch. This receiver listens for radio transmissions from a car key chip. This additional layer of security ensures only you can gain access to the car and start the car. When a key is inserted in the ignition switch the car tries to detect the digital serial number. If it is not the correct key, the immobiliser system will not allow the car to start. Cars with keyless entry will not unlock.

Transponder keys work similarly to key fobs as they are electronic keys. Much like key fobs which are often used with home security systems to open gates and garage doors, transponder keys are used to open car locks and allow keyless entry. This has greatly helped reduce car theft by rendering the car immobile when an unrecognised key is used and protecting against hot-wiring attacks.

How To Know if My Car Key Has a Transponder Chip In It?

The fastest way to find out if your car key is a transponder key is to do a quick search on the internet. Just type in your vehicle’s make and model and there should be information about your type of key. However, if you can’t find the information below is a list of ways to find out.

Ways to find out if you have a transponder key or non-transponder key:

1. A transponder key requires space for the car key transponder chip somewhere on the key itself. If you have a car key shell then it is likely a transponder key as it is big enough for the microchip.
2. The plastic bow at the head of the key is thicker than usual. The extra bulk creates space inside the head for the chip.
3. Contact your car dealership or the manufacturer to clarify whether your vehicle model uses transponder keys.
4. Call your car dealer and ask them for a quote to duplicate car keys. If the cost is much higher than regular mechanical car key cutting then your key is likely a transponder key.

What To Do When You Lose Your Transponder Car Key?

Car dealerships provide two keys when you first collect your car. The easiest solution is to get a locksmith to make a copy of the other original key. However, things get complicated if you do not have a spare key somewhere.

Do not panic or be anxious. Whichever situation you find yourself in, just call us and we will come right away to assist you. Our experienced locksmiths can get you a replacement car key with or without the original key.

Call us when you’re locked out of your car or lost your keys in an unfamiliar place. We are your foolproof solution to your car key problems. Our expert team of locksmiths will reach you in minutes no matter where you are in Sydney. Day or night, seven days a week, we are ready to help you.

We have successfully assisted thousands of car owners to get replacement car keys. Our professional locksmiths use remote car key programmers to make a replacement key for you. We can program a transponder key for a wide variety of brands and models of vehicles, including but not limited to:

• Audi
• BMW
• Chevrolet
• Dodge
• Ford
• Isuzu
• Jeep
• Kia
• Land Rover
• Lexus
• Mazda
• Mitsubishi
• Nissan
• Range Rover
• Renault
• Skoda
• Subaru
• Suzuki
• Toyota
• Volkswagen

Do You Keep a Spare Transponder Key?

If you lose one and only have a backup key left, please immediately get a spare made. Do not use the only key left as the primary key and delay getting a spare. With a backup available, it is easier and cheaper to clone a spare key.

You can ask your dealership to make a spare for you. You can also get locksmiths who have the ability to work with car key chips to do it for a fraction of the price. That is if you have a key to clone. If not it may become a hassle.

How To Replace Transponder Key Without the Original or Spare

Unfortunately, you must contact your car dealer or manufacturer and ask them to reset the receiver.

Getting a transponder Key Replacement will be costly. Since the key’s serial number must match the receiver, specialised tools are used to pair the key and the receiver. The added complexity will increase the cost of replacement.

Call Us Now! Our Auto Locksmiths Are Ready To Help You

You can depend on our trusted locksmiths to solve your transponder key issue. Whether you’ve lost, broken or simply misplaced your key and need an urgent replacement, our mobile emergency locksmiths are available 24/7 anywhere in Sydney.

Call us at (02) 9158 3200