On the surface level, it seems that a transponder key is exactly the same thing as a regular key, however what sets a transponder apart is a tiny electronic chip placed within it, this particular component is required in order to start the vehicle.
A regular key is entirely mechanical in its nature. It consists of nothing but metal, and its function is based on matching the locks in the door or ignition. Once inserted and turned correctly, such key allows a person to unlock the car and start its engine. The lack of electronics makes it very simple and affordable to duplicate.
A transponder car key is equipped with a special tiny elec tronic chip which is located inside its plastic head and it responsible for identifying the right signal. In case of a match, the engine is activated; otherwise, it stays shut regardless of whether the key matches the lock or not.
Transponder keys include chips specifically for additional security reasons, they protect the car by preventing anyone unauthorized from starting the engine. That's why the procedure of replacing the transponder is more complex than that of changing a regular key.
While a regular key just needs to be cut, a transponder needs both cutting and programming. It is the latter that provides a vehicle with the ability to identify the chip included in the key and start the engine accordingly.
Most vehicles made in the last 20 years use transponder keys and the presence of a larger plastic head indicates that there is a chip inside. Another way to figure it out is the fact that a duplicated key opens doors but fails to activate the engine.
Once you lost your regular key, a locksmith should be able to replace it promptly and the loss of a transponder is associated with the necessity to both cut and program a new key, losing all copies of the transponder will result in a lengthy procedure of accessing and programming your car's security system.
A smart key represents an advanced type of a transponder key, such keys allow users to unlock their cars and start their engines by simply pressing some buttons without inserting keys in locks.
The most important advantage of transponder keys is the protection against vehicle thefts provided by the chip installed inside it. Despite the fact that the thieves have access to a duplicated key and can open a car, the engine will not start without the proper identification of the chip.
The main difference between transponders and regular keys is a chip located in the plastic head. As was mentioned above, while a regular key only needs to be cut, a transponder key has to be additionally programmed.
We provide mobile transponder key cutting and programming services throughout Seattle, making key replacement and and programming quick and convenient.
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