A transponder key contains an electronic micro-chip that is built into the head of the key, which is also why some people call them chip keys. The term “transponder” is derived from transmitter and responder. The basic purpose of transponder systems is to get rid of auto theft. This makes it essential to your car’s security system or anti-theft system. Read on to learn more about transponder keys, how they work, and what to do if you need a key replacement from Locksmith Keyless, a top transponder key provider in the Miami area. Call us today for your transponder key needs.

How Transponder Key Systems Work

General Motors (GM) was the first US auto manufacturer to introduce a chip key on the 1985 Corvette, which dramatically decreased the theft of Corvettes due to the VATS (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) key and system. Today, the automotive transponder system is made up of the electronic chip key, the antenna ring (induction coil) around your ignition, your car’s computer (ECM or Engine Control Module), and the immobilizer. A programmed key is inserted into the ignition lock cylinder in order to turn to the ON position, and then the antenna ring sends a burst of energy through radiofrequency. That energy is absorbed by the transponder chip, which sends back a radiofrequency signal that acts as the identification code to the antenna ring. The antenna ring sends this ID code to the car’s computer, and if the ID code from the key matches the ID code to the car’s computer, then the immobilizer is disabled, and the vehicle will start. Once the key has been recognized, the car’s security light will go out. If the security light is blinking, then it means that the car’s computer isn’t recognizing the ID code from the chip key and the car will not start. If this happens, then you will want to call a locksmith like Locksmith Keyless to program a new transponder key replacement.

Looking For a Transponder Key Provider?

The most common transponder keys for GM vehicles today are the Circle Plus keys and the  PK3 (PASSKey3) keys. These are standard,10-cut keys that operate the door and the ignition. GM introduced the Flip Remote Key in 2010, which is a high-security, laser-cut metal key that “flips” out of the FOB like a switchblade. Depending on the car’s trim package, the FOB may or may not be a Proximity key where you can push a button to start the car remotely. The push-to-start feature is called the E-Z Passive System (E-Z Key). The E-Z Key, also known as the Flip Remote Key, is available on the 2010-2014 Buick LaCrosse, 2011-2014 Buick Regal, 2012-2014 Buick Verano, 2010-2014 Chevy Camaro, 2010-2014 Chevy Cruze, 2010-2014 Chevy Equinox, 2012-2014 Chevy Sonic, 2011-2014 Chevy Volt, and the 2010-2014 GMC Terrain. We at Locksmith Keyless can cut and program all GM transponder keys, metal keys, Flip Remote keys, and Proximity Smart Key FOBs on the spot at your location.

Contact Us Today

If you are looking for a transponder key provider, Locksmith Keyless provides key replacement services in the Miami area. Call us today to find out more.