Pro Newport News Locksmith: November 2017

Newport News transponder key locksmith

Every day, we have so many things to keep track of, that things can get very confusing. Perhaps you are the type of person who likes to stay very organized, and you even keep a to-do list handy. Or maybe you prefer to “wing it” and make it a point to try to remember everything you need to do. But no matter which category you fall into in terms of organization, you can always end up victim to a lost key. Pro Newport News Locksmith in Newport News, VA frequently receives phone calls from locals who have lost their transponder key. Often times, people call in a state of panic, not knowing how to operate their vehicle. Luckily, there are automotive locksmiths all over the country who care and who can provide service when transponder keys go missing. This information has been put together for your convenience, so you can know all about transponder keys and what to do when they are missing!

After all is said and done, if you have done everything that you can to locate your transponder key, but it is nowhere to be found, then it is time to call an expert for help. In a state of panic, it can be difficult to remember to retrace your steps. But check on top of countertops, in the bathroom, or anywhere else you could have dropped your keys. Did you have your car key in your hand when you remembered you needed to switch laundry into the dryer? Perhaps the key is in a pile of clothes. Check everywhere you can think of…if you have already done this, read on to learn about the next steps to take.

The technical side of transponder key creation

Transponder keys were created as a form of convenience and better security. They are very technologically advanced and as such, can be confusing when it comes to replacement. When you are looking for help with transponder key replacement, you will need an expert who is able to cut the key blade to the proper configuration, and they will need to be able to program the key’s chip so that it is a match for the vehicle’s transponder system. If it sounds technical, that’s because it is. A dealership would be able to do this for you if you lost your transponder key, or of course, an auto locksmith would be able to help.

What you need

Here are some of the things that you will need if you opt to call a lock and security provider for help with transponder key replacement…

The chassis number for your vehicle. This will be located within your vehicle’s registration documents.

The chip code. Where is the chip code, you might ask? This is something that you should have gotten from your dealership when you bought the car. Don’t have it? Don’t worry. An expert will help you to figure this out.

Proof of ownership of the vehicle: Any professional will need to verify that your vehicle hasn’t been stolen. Have registration and identification documents ready to go. This will speed up the process for you.

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Now, call a locksmith to replace your key

When you are ready with all of the information that you need so a new transponder key can be made for your vehicle, call a locksmith. They will provide the most affordable solution. And here is where the information you gathered will come in handy. First, a lock and security provider will use their expertise to cut the key by utilizing your car’s chassis number. An auto locksmith might program the new key by means of the chip code provided, or they might need to reprogram the vehicle’s ECU unit. Sometimes, the entire transponder system needs to be modified. Again, only an expert will know how to do this.

But be sure to find a locksmith that you can trust.

Hiring a credible locksmith is important. You want your situation to be dealt with professionally. Luckily, you shouldn’t have a problem finding a lock and security provider that is available 24 hours a day, because obviously you won’t want to wait long to have a new transponder key. If you were waiting to go to your dealership, then you would have to wait until it is convenient for them and you would have to be available during standard business hours, most likely. But with a lock and security provider, you get a professional who is available when it works with your busy schedule. Here are some key things to look for when hiring a locksmith for automotive services:

Make sure they have licensing and insurance. It’s easy for any random person to log onto Craigslist and claim to be a professional locksmith. They’ll boast low prices, but that’s because the work won’t be worth paying a reasonable amount. Check to make sure you are hiring someone who has undergone the proper training and has obtained the appropriate paperwork to do their job. This will protect you, in the event that anything goes wrong.
Look at the Better Business Bureau for relevant feedback and company scores.
Ask around for referrals. The best source just happens to be the people you already know you can trust. See if anyone in your social circle can recommend a specific locksmith.
Take advantage of a free consultation once you have found a lock and security provider. Ask them any questions that you have. Request a price quote prior to the job being started.

A lost transponder key is certainly a problem, but it is not one that can’t be solved fast. As long as you know where to turn to, you will surely get the results that you desire. If you’re in Newport News, you know who to call. But if you are anywhere else, just do an online search or as mentioned, ask your friends and anyone you can trust if they recommend an automotive locksmith for transponder key programming, duplication and other services.