Is my key a transponder key?
Is my vehicle equipped with an anti-theft transponder system?
Wondering if your car key is a transponder key? It's worth noting that according to Canadian automotive import regulations, all vehicles from 2008 and up must be equipped with chip keys. So if you own a 2009 or newer vehicle in Canada, it almost certainly has transponder keys.
For older vehicles it's actually quite easy to find out. Most vehicles that use transponder key technology have a security light indicator. If your car has a security light, it is likely equipped with transponder keys. You can find the security light on your dashboard, center console, or near the windshield inside your car.
There is no universal code or standard on how a security light should appear, so vehicle manufacturers design their security light indicators based on their preferences. Security light indicators could be an icon of a lock or a key, a red word "security," or just a tiny red light. See below the different types of security lights:
If you are unsure, you can always phone your local dealership or an auto locksmith for advice. They will be able to tell you whether your car is equipped with a Transponder key system based on their database.
What to do when you need a car key duplicate?
What is the procedure for duplicating a transponder key?
1. Have your vehicle's information ready.
Before you call a car key specialist, having all the necessary information about your vehicle is important. This includes the VIN number, make, model, year of production, and vehicle trim (options).
By having this information readily accessible, the technician can quickly find the right key for your vehicle and prevent any mistakes. Plus, it saves you time in the long run!
Before getting a car key replacement service, be sure to have your driver's license or another form of photo identification, as well as proof of ownership, such as your vehicle registration. It's important to note that all licensed locksmiths are required by law to check proof of ownership when all keys are lost.
2. Call an Auto Locksmith!
After gathering all the necessary information about your vehicle, it's time to call your local auto locksmith. The best part is that many auto locksmiths offer a mobile service, which means that they send a technician to your location. This is especially convenient if you don't want to spend time driving to a locksmith shop or if you find yourself in a situation where you've lost all your car keys.
The process of getting a replacement key is usually straightforward. The technician will retrieve the original cuts of your vehicle by decoding your old key blank or one of your locks if you've lost your original key. Then, the car locksmith will use a matching transponder type to pair with your new key blank and program it for your car.
3. Make sure you get an invoice.
After the job is done, make sure you get a proper invoice with your key fob. An invoice ensures you can make a warranty claim if necessary. A reputable locksmith company will offer a car owner warranty for a new key fob for up to 2 years.
Can I program my own transponder key?
How easy is it to program a car key?
If you still have a working key (sometimes two keys are required*), programming a new transponder key can be a DIY project. However, if you don't have a working key, you'll need to turn to an auto locksmith who has a professional transponder key programmer to do the job.
Depending on which vehicle you own, a car's individual programming procedures are unique to that specific brand. In cases where programming can be done without a working key, you will be asked to follow simple steps. Let's take GM cars for example: they make it possible to program keys without an expensive key programmer, their programming procedure is as simple as turning the ignition lock with the working key and then the new key.
If the process requires a car key programmer, it's best to seek the help of an automotive locksmith. It's worth noting that in many cases, you'll still need the assistance of an auto locksmith to cut your blank key, so you might as well ask them to program it for you!
You can find more information on car key programming here.
