What is a Transponder Key?

Car keys sure aren't what they used to be.

It used to be that you could walk into a hardware store with your car key, they would cut a new one for you, and you'd be on your way with the peace of mind that can only come from having a spare car key. This is no longer possible. Why? Transponders.

So what exactly is this technology that makes car keys so much more complicated and expensive? Today, a professional automotive explains.

A transponder is a compurized chip inside of a key that holds data which is synced up with the car's immobilizer system (a system that stops the car from starting if it doesn't sense the correct data from the transponder) to satisfy the car's comuters and allow the car to start. Somewhere around 80-90% of cars on the roady today utilize some kind of transponder system in their keys, and if you were to go get a key cut down at the hardware store, it might turn in the ignition, but the car won't start (AND you may throw some codes that will stop your car from starting even with your other key for awhile).

Complicated isn't always bad, though: transponders add an extra layer of security for your vehicle, making it impossible to simply brute force the ignition into turning by destroying it or picking it over, meaning it becomes a whole lot more difficult to steal your car.

We at South Shore Lock & Key are transponder key experts and can help you get that second car key (and that peace of mind) for your car, whether it be a European vehicle, high-security key way, or simply an old pickup truck with a chipped key. Contact us today to get your second car key and the peace of mind that comes with it!