transponder-keys

Most Cars made 1997 or newer have a built in immobilizer. The engine won't start unless the key has transponder in the head. This was added to lower car theft. Some keys have transmitter in the head. The transmitter is used to lock and unlock the doors and turn. The transponder has to be registered to the immobilizer. We are able to originate or duplicate most transponder keys, proximity keys at less than car dealers.

Proximity Keys

Some of the newer cars use a proximity key. On these cars you have the key in your pocket or purse and when you touch the door handle the door unlocks. You push a button on the dashboard and the car starts.

If you have a newer car, there’s a good chance you need special transponder keys to start and drive it. These keys are made in the factory and come with the car, providing two-way radio transmission between the key and the car. What this means is that the key has to be programmed only to start one particular car. This is a good theft deterrent because you have to be in possession of the car’s special key to be able to start and drive the car, but it’s bad news for the car owner who loses their key.

If your vehicle requires transponder keys you should have at least two keys on hand. We’ve all lost keys before but replacing transponders key can be an expensive undertaking, especially if you go back to the dealer. At our locksmith shop in Berkeley, transponder key replacement is less expensive. We can get you a spare transponder key for less than the cost of going back to your car dealership.

Contact us today before you find yourself missing a transponder key in Berkeley.