Have you lost your car keys and now looking for how to replace car keys with chips? This article is surely going to come handy to help you get a new key for your car. These days, many automotive manufacturers now build transponder keys into their vehicles. These types of keys are also called chip keys. Car keys with chips are often used in order to add an extra layer of security and protect it from being stolen.
Chip keys have digital codes built into them which allows them to communicate with vehicles that have transponder systems in them. Each key comes with a unique digital code, which means in order to start such a car, you will need to place the right chip key in the ignition. Because of the sophistication that comes with this technology, it can somewhat be a bit difficult and more expensive to replace car keys with chip compared to other automotive keys.
In this article are some important things you should know about transponder keys (chip keys), how they work, and how you can replace them in case you mistakenly lost them.
What Are Transponder Keys?
Transponder keys, which are also called chip keys, are car keys that have an inbuilt chip in them. This chip is required to deactivate an engine immobilizer when necessary. When the ignition of a car that uses transponder keys is turned on, the car’s engine control unit sends an electronic message to the key. That way, the car will only start if it receives the correct message back from the key.
Because of the transponder chip located inside this type of car keys, it offers more security to the car and provides the only way these types of cars can be operated. These chips are set by the manufacturer. Most times when the chip of the keys isn’t working, you can only be allowed to access the interior of the car, and sometimes the trunk too. But the engine will not start with a nonworking transponder key.
How Do Transponder Keys Work?
This is how a transponder key works. There is an induction coil that is mounted around the ignition lock. When a key is inserted into the ignition and turned, it generates an electromagnetic field. The energy is then absorbed by the windings in the key which then used it to power the transponder chip and then send the code signal to the ECU. The code is usually an alphanumeric code. This process triggers the electronic components in the car and then enables the engine to start or continue running.
If your vehicle uses this type of key, you will need to keep it safe and always make sure it is available to start your car. If you lose the key, it will require more cost to replace than a standard metal key because of the electronic components built into it.
What Happens When Your Transponder Key Refuse to Work?
There may be many factors that can cause your transponder key not to work, including when you lose the key. When this happens, it can cause a lot of panic around you. Unless you have a spare key, you will need to get a professional locksmith who will help you program a new transponder key.
However, it is not all locksmiths that can help with car chip keys replacement or duplication, so it is important you find the right professional to handle the job for you.
How to Replace Car Keys with Chips
There are a variety of ways you can go about car chip keys replacement. You can either do it on your own via some DIY approaches, visit a dealership, or call a professional auto locksmith to help you out. However, each of these options comes with its own pros and cons. While visiting a dealership can be a trustworthy option, it can be very expensive. DIY approach could be cheaper but it requires some technical know-how so you don’t cause damage to your ignition or lock. The most recommended option is using an auto locksmith. The option seems to be fair with price and also trustworthy. Below are some steps to take when you are looking to replace your car keys with chips.
Step for Replacing Car Keys with Chips
#1: Call a local automotive store
If you have one of the original keys, you will need to call a local automotive store and ask if you could get a chip key cut with them. If they do cut chip keys, take your key to them and let them cut a duplicate copy for you. But don’t forget this is only possible if you have a spare of the original copy of the key. In case you don’t, you might need to explore the next option.
#2: Contact an auto locksmith
When you don’t have a spare of the original key, you will need to contact a locksmith to help you create a new chip key for your car. Remember not all locksmiths can cut a chip key, so do some research before opting for one. Choose a professional auto locksmith that has the right tools and equipment to create a new chip key and also reprogram your car so that it recognizes the new key.
#3: Provide the locksmith the necessary information he needs
You will need to provide the locksmith some information like the make of the vehicle, the year, and model, and don’t forget to ask if he or she possesses the right equipment to cut and program new chip keys. It is not all vehicles that a locksmith can provide new chip keys for. Vehicles like Volvos or BMWs need to be taken to a dealership for key replacement.
#4: Call a specialized dealership
If you will be taking your vehicle to a dealership, choose one that specializes in your car’s make and request a new chip key. Your vehicle will have to be towed to the dealership, so make arrangements with the dealership to make that happen.
#5: The dealership will need some information
The dealership will also need some information. You will need to provide him with your vehicle’s registration paperwork to prove your ownership as well as your identification. It is important you prove you are the owner of the car before a dealership can make new chip leys for the car. Make sure you test the new keys before you leave the dealership. If it doesn’t work, you should quickly notify the service department so they can program the key properly.
Bottom Line
While it may be possible to get a replacement for car keys with chips, it is recommended that you keep your key close to you and don’t lose them. The process of getting a replacement chip key can be costly, especially if you will be using a dealership. And when you are using an auto locksmith, make sure you are choosing a reliable and trusted one.