Transponder Car Key Functions | C & S Locksmiths

Most car keys for models built after 1995 contain a transponder chip. The transponder chip in a car key is the device that disarms an automobiles immobilizer. The immobilizer in an automobile is an electronic security device that prevents the engine from running unless the correct transponder key is present.

Modern vehicles are built with transponder car keys as a security precaution as the correct key and programmed transponder must be present to start the engine. Transponder keys help reduce vehicle theft as modern vehicles built with transponder key and immobilizer units prevent the car from being ‘hot-wired’. Quite often cars will include transponder car keys and remote control keyless systems for more added security and access control.

The process occurring with a transponder car key is that once a key is inserted in the ignition and turned to the on position the induction coil then sends out an electromagnetic field of energy disarming the immobilizer. Despite the high level of security associated with transponder keys when owning an automobile caution and awareness is always recommended. If you are not sure about your car’s key system it is recommended to contact your vehicles maker or a local lock and security expert. If you are located in the Tucson area contact the Tucson lock and security experts!