Computer chips and car keys – not exactly two words that you automatically associate with one another!
Despite coming from completely different worlds, many modern car manufacturers are combining their keys with computer chips in order to create keys (and locks) that:
- Are more secure
- Are more convenient
- Are harder to pick
- Provide greater security
Of course, this also makes your auto locksmith’s job a smidge more complicated than it may have been in the past – but not impossible.
WIth more chipped car keys on Melbourne’s roads, it’s more important than ever to ensure that your Bayside auto locksmith doesn’t just cut keys – if you want fast help while out on the road, it’s crucial that you choose one who can fix chipped car keys!
What is a chipped key?
You hear the words “chipped key” and odds are, your mind automatically drifts towards dented or bent keys.
While our auto locksmiths are more than capable of fixing these or supplying replacements, that isn’t what we’re here to talk about today – instead, we’re talking about keys with computer chips in them (in case you haven’t guessed yet!)
Chipped keys, also called transponder keys, are designed with security reasons in mind.
Anyone with a nail file and enough patience can cut a key. It will take them days to get it right without the proper tools or training, but it can be done. Others have perfected the art of unlocking doors, picking locks or hotwiring cars.
Chipped and transponder keys are designed to prevent this.
Each key features a tiny computer chip that transmits a unique code to your car’s onboard computer. If these codes match, your engine immobiliser will deactivate, allowing you to drive.
And if it doesn’t match, your engine won’t start – simple as that.
So even if the key itself is a physical fit, if the transponder doesn’t match (or if it doesn’t exist at all), any ne’er-do-wells aren’t going to get anywhere!
How do keyless entry fobs come into the picture?
We’re glad you asked – when you break it down, keyless entry fobs are essentially chipped keys, only with the physical key component taken out (okay, not really – most keyless entry fobs still have a hidden backup key).
Keyless entry fobs use the exact same principles, with a unique code that’s assigned to your fob and car. If they sync, your car automatically unlocks – if they don’t, tough luck!
And since they operate on similar principles to transponder keys, it also means that your auto locksmith can fix problems with keyless entry fobs – no need to book in an appointment with the dealership.
Problems with chips and transponders… and how our car locksmiths fix them
This extra layer of security is fantastic, and provides drivers with peace-of-mind… of course, just like any other part of your locking system, they aren’t immune to issues and problems!
Whether it’s a dead battery, a faulty chip or a desync problem, chips and transponders can fail, leaving you stranded.
Luckily, our Bayside auto locksmiths aren’t just experts in cutting physical keys – we’re also experienced in fixing issues with chips and transponders.
Some of the most common problems with chipped keys (be they transponders or keyless entry systems) include…
Desyncing
If your transponder or keyless entry fob desyncs with your car, you’ll need to resync it before you can start driving again.
While there’s plenty of general information online, some cars have very specific steps that need to be followed when your fob or transponder desyncs. To avoid making the problem worse than it already is, we strongly recommend getting a professional to do it for you!
Replacement
Lost or broken your transponder key or fob? Luckily for you, we can replace them.
Our auto locksmiths can supply and program replacement transponders and fobs, allowing you to get back on the road.
We don’t even need a copy of the original to do so – using a range of techniques, we can learn your car’s unique code and program your new transponder key or fob accordingly.
Damaged keys
While the focus may be on the chip, that doesn’t mean you should neglect the physical key itself – you still need it!
This is especially important for transponder keys, where you still need the physical key to start the engine.
Luckily for you, your auto locksmith is an expert in all things key-related – we can repair or cut new keys for you as needed, allowing you to get back on the road when you need to.
Why Bayside motorists trust Galmier Locksmiths
We’re local
Based in nearby Cheltenham, our close proximity to Melbourne’s Bayside suburbs comes with a couple of positives for you.
For starters, we’re always nearby – that way, our mobile locksmiths can cut down travel time and get to you sooner.
What’s more, we also know our way around the area, so we won’t get lost either!
Out-of-hours service
A car key problem is a bona fide emergency, and can leave you stranded for hours on end – worst of all, it can happen anytime. If your local locksmith only operates during business hours, this could leave you without coverage when you need it!
Thankfully, Galmier’s emergency auto locksmith service offers extended hours and weekend service, giving you peace of mind.
Give us a ring anytime between 9am and 10:30pm, and we’ll be there! (Emergency only service after 5pm)
Industry-leading customer service
Don’t believe us? Don’t worry, we get it – anyone can claim to offer great customer service. And not all of them deliver.
Luckily, you don’t have to take our word for it.
With a 4.9-star rating based on 174 reviews and 8-consecutive WOMO Customer Service Awards, we’re leading the rest of Melbourne’s automotive locksmiths in customer service.
We’re only one of 3 locksmiths in all of Victoria to win this award – that should tell you everything you need to know!
Bayside motorists rave about our:
- Punctuality
- Speedy response
- Reasonable prices
- Transparency
- Professionalism and skill
For a locksmith that offers all of the above (and more), there’s only one number you should be saving to your phone!
For peace-of-mind when you run into car key problems, call Galmier’s Bayside auto locksmiths!
Whether it’s an issue with your transponder chip or fob, or an issue with the pins and tumblers in your ignition chamber, our Bayside auto locksmiths are here to help you out.
Our mission is simple: to help you when you run into key, lock or ignition problems, and to get you back on the road… without forcing you to wait for hours, or spend dealership-level prices to do so.
We’re all about peace-of-mind – with Galmier, you won’t have to worry about being left stranded when you run into key-related drama.
And all it takes is a phone call!
For punctual and speedy auto locksmith service in Bayside – or anywhere in south-east Melbourne – simply save our number to your phone (that’s 0407 022 234, in case you were wondering!)
