What to Do When Transponder Key is Lost

In last decade or so, we’ve seen many fantastic improvements and upgrades made in the automotive industry. This includes the creation of the transponder keys- a much more secure option than regular keys. This type of key contains a unique device called a transponder chip. It is used to communicate with the computer in the car’s engine. Without this chip, your engine won’t start.

Now, What Should You Do If Your Transponder Key is Lost?

Well, there are several things that you can do. Hopefully, the solution to your situation won’t be too expensive. And, if you didn’t know before, now may not be a good time to find out. But, transponder keys can be fairly expensive to make.

So, before you jump into such a big expense, let’s explore some options for you.

• Search and search again

  This statement may seem a bit odd. But, is it really? How many times have you had things go missing only to find them a few days or even hours later? It has happened to the best of us. So, before you go into a frenzy or start searching for money to spend on new keys, search for those keys again.

  You never know. With an extra set of eyes and hands, you may end up finding those keys that you thought were lost. If you do find them, it will end up saving you a few bucks. So, search again.

• Get your spare key

  Whether you bought your car new from a dealer or it’s used, it is quite likely that you received a spare key with it. If you’ve never thought about using it before, now’s the time to go and get it. If you’re far away from home, it’s easier said than done. But, we hope if you ever should lose your transponder key that you’ll be close to your already programmed spare key.

  Can’t find your spare key? You may just be in a little pickle. But, keep reading! We have a great suggestion for our next tip.

• Call a locksmith

  Notice it said call a locksmith and not your dealer? It may seem a bit bias since we’re a locksmith company. But, guess what? Your local locksmith is often much less expensive than your dealer. Many professional locksmiths are trained to handle transponder keys. Once they’re well-trained and experienced, they should be able to provide top-class services.

  Regardless of where you live, we’re sure that you can find an amazing locksmith in your area to make or even program your transponder key for you.

Note carefully: There’s one thing that you should never, ever do if you lose your transponder key. NEVER BYPASS THE COMPUTER SYSTEM! If you received more than one key with your vehicle when you bought it, chances are that the spare key may need to be programmed. If you’re one of the lucky ones, then your spare key may be programmed already. So, this may not apply to you.

But, if your key needs to be programmed, go ahead and do it. Never use that unprogrammed key to start your vehicle by bypassing the computer system. That’s a very dangerous risk to take. Getting the key programmed may seem a bit costly now, but it could end up being the less costly option in the long run.

Can’t Find Your Transponder Key? Here’s the best solution!

You may be wondering what can be better than calling a locksmith for help. Well, we have some great news for you. All the stress related to a lost transponder key and the money you’ll have to spend can be saved. You just have to do one thing- DON’T LOSE THE KEY!

Well, when you think about it, that’s really a preventative measure rather than a solution, right? But, it’s the best thing you can do to avoid all the headache. So, how can you prevent your oh-so-important car keys from getting lost? Here are a few tips.

• Use a key finder.

  If you lose your keys a lot, you’ll find that a key finder is one of the greatest inventions available today. There are several varieties of them, so they work in different ways. But, the common goal of these small and helpful devices is to assist you when you need to find your keys.

  On more than one occasion, many of us will misplace our keys. Sometimes it is these same circumstances that lead to a lost key. So, having a key finder can surely prevent such incidences as these. They’re sold for a wide range of prices too, so you should find one that meets your budgetary requirements.

• Place your keys in easy-to-reach places.

  There are many places where we can lose our keys. It doesn’t matter if you’re in or outside your home. So, another great way to make your keys easy-to-find is by keeping it in specific locations. Using items like a key rack or a key bowl can save you a lot of time and hassle when you’re at home.

  Not home? Then, you may have to be much more careful with where you place your keys. Try not to leave them in places where you may forget them. Be especially careful when you’re out shopping or you’re in places where they can be very easily misplaced.

Would you like more information about how to properly maintain or replace your transponder keys? Perhaps you’d like a locksmith to make one for you or program the transponder chip.