Can a Transponder Key Go Bad?

June 01 / 2022

Can a Transponder Key Go Bad?

Transponder keys, like everything with technology, wear over time. As a result, most transponder keys or key fobs fail as time goes on. If this happens to you, don’t panic. All you need to do is buy the right transponder key from an online auto store and contact a service provider like Colorado Springs Locksmith for key fob programming services.

Unlike the traditional metal car keys, key fobs consist of modern technology that transmits signals to the receiver in your vehicle’s onboard computer. These signals cannot trigger the onboard computer of other vehicles, even if they belong to the same brand and are the same models.

Each transponder key is manufactured and programmed to send unique codes or signals to the vehicle it has been manufactured for. Once the signal is received and verified by the vehicle’s onboard computer, the user can unlock or lock the car doors and start the ignition. Hence, it is impossible to operate your car when your key fob or transponder key is bad.

How to Know When Your Transponder Key is Bad

Key fobs provide access control and security in modern cars. They are user-friendly, durable, and often resistant to eternal pressure. However, nothing can be as frustrating as seeing your key fob fail. How can you tell when your transponder key is failing? What are the signs to look out for?

Here are some signs that indicate that your key fob is failing and needs immediate attention:

Key Fob Won’t Start Your Vehicle

If your key fob won’t start your car, it could be a sign that your key fob is faulty. This typically happens when your key fob batteries are dead and need replacements. Most times, batteries show signs that they have low power left before they completely burn out.

If you notice that you have to press your key fob more often than usual before your car doors and ignition responds, you need to have your batteries changed immediately. Most times, you will need to reprogram your key fob after you’ve changed its batteries as its existing programming is most likely to reset after that.

Unwanted Attention

Everyone hates drawing unwanted attention, particularly when they are in a public space. One of the signs that your transponder key needs attention is that it starts to trigger your vehicle’s alarm system on its own. This experience can be embarrassing, especially when it occurs in the wee hours.

Ghost Locking

No one loves a transponder key that operates their vehicle on its own. Usually, our car responds after we have operated our key fobs. Ghost locking is a sign that your key fob requires immediate attention. The term is used to describe a scenario where your key fob locks and unlocks your vehicle on its own. Ghost locking tends to happen when debris and or moisture finds its way past the protective case of your key fob and enters into its microchip.

Final Words

The signs listed above are indications that your key fob requires the immediate attention of an auto locksmith. Contact Colorado Springs Locksmith if you see any of these signs, especially when you need a key fob programming service.

Share on -