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What Is a Transponder Key, and How Does It Work?

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Most vehicles produced in recent years are equipped with a transponder key. Chances are, your car uses a transponder key, even if you’re unaware of it! Transponder keys use radio signals to prevent theft and enhance convenience. Unfortunately, they can be complicated and expensive to replace. Working with a qualified provider of transponder keys in Fairfax, VA is the best way to replace your vehicle keys if you have lost or misplaced your existing transponder key.

How it works

Transponder keys in Fairfax, VA are relatively simple pieces of machinery that provide users, and their insurance companies, with tremendous peace of mind.

Remote access keys in Fairfax, VA have a small radio chip installed inside the key’s plastic sheaf. This chip communicates with another chip inside the car’s ignition. The key’s chip sends a code over to the car’s chip when the driver begins to turn the ignition. The car’s ignition is programmed to only recognize one single code. If the code being sent by the key doesn’t match the code the ignition is programmed to read, the engine will not start.

Benefits of transponder keys

In addition to providing an extra layer of security, most transponder keys also allow for remote access. Remote access keys in Fairfax, VA are transponder keys equipped with typically one or two buttons that can open or lock your car’s doors from a distance.

Here are just some of the benefits you most likely experience each and every day, thanks to your car’s remote access keys in Fairfax, VA:

  • Reduced risk of theft: Because most modern engines are programmed to only start while reading one specialized code, theft is substantially more difficult. Keys without a matching code can often turn an engine over; however, it won’t start unless it is reading the right code. Hotwiring cars is now a distant possibility for most would-be car thieves.
  • Remote operation: Another clear benefit of transponder keys is the fact that they allow users to remotely access their vehicles. There are a number of reasons why remote operation is beneficial, including central lock capabilities and the panic button, which allows you to locate your car with very little effort.
  • Central locking: Cars equipped with remote access keys in Fairfax, VA typically have central locking capabilities. You can lock every door in your vehicle with the touch of one button. If your car has an alarm, it will most likely also be armed when you take advantage of your central locking capabilities.

Artie’s Lock and Key has been the most trusted locksmith in Virginia since 1975. We are the foremost provider of transponder keys in Fairfax, VA. You can rely on us to replace your car’s remote access key with promptness and professionalism.

Our bonded, licensed and insured team members take a tremendous amount of pride in their ability to deliver high-quality locksmith services. We use only the most current and up-to-date tools of the trade to deliver an unparalleled customer service experience. To learn more about Artie’s Lock and Key, give one of our friendly representatives a call today!

Avoid Locksmith Scammers

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Locksmiths perform sensitive jobs, which means that you should be able to place complete and total trust in the company you are hiring to forge new keys or help you regain access to your home. Too often, disreputable locksmith companies take advantage of clients in need of immediate assistance.

Because locksmiths have the ability to gain access to your home, vehicle and safe, you should only work with locksmith companies that have well-established local track records that can be easily and independently verified. Thankfully, there are a number of ways that you can verify the trustworthiness of the locksmith in Fairfax, VA that you are considering working with.

Here are just some of the ways to avoid locksmith scammers and work with a reputable mobile locksmith in Fairfax, VA:

  • Search proactively: The best way to avoid locksmith scams is to develop a relationship with your local locksmith in Fairfax, VA before you need their services! You should proactively look for a locksmith company that meets your needs. Be sure to read through the feedback they’ve received on online review sites, and check their rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
  • Look local: You should only work with locksmith companies that are locally owned and operated. If a locksmith is using a phone number with an 800 area code, there’s a solid chance that they’re not legitimate. Additionally, you should look on their website to see where their physical offices are located. If it’s an address that you don’t recognize, be sure to look it up online.
  • Check the license: In 15 states and many municipalities, locksmith laws require locksmiths to be licensed. All locksmiths legally operating in Virginia must be licensed. To verify that your mobile locksmith in Fairfax, VA is legitimate, ask to see their license, or ask them to verify its number and date of expiration. If a locksmith isn’t willing to provide you with licensure information, they may not be legitimate.
  • Ask for an estimate: You should always ask to see a written estimate before you agree to have any services performed by a locksmith. They should be able to provide you with a document outlining the costs of the service you are receiving. If the locksmith you are working with is unable to provide you with this, they may not be trustworthy.

Since 1975, Artie’s Lock and Key has been the most trusted locksmith in Fairfax, VA. We are proud of our upstanding reputation in the community. We also take a tremendous amount of pride in the veracity of our talented and professional locksmiths. You can rely on us to provide you with high-quality, dependable locksmith services throughout the region.

If you are in need of a mobile locksmith in Fairfax, VA, you should reach out to Artie’s Lock and Key. Our licensed, bonded and insured crew will ensure that you have regained access to your home or vehicle as promptly as possible. We use only the most up-to-date tools and technologies to give you access to your home or business.