Transponder keys in Washington, DC
Most cars made since the late 1990s use a transponder key: a key with a chip that tells the car's immobilizer it is safe to start. We cut and program these keys on site for many makes.
- Phones answered Monday to Sunday, all day
- Mobile service vans
- Major credit cards
How a transponder key works
When you turn the key, the car sends a signal to the chip in the key head. If the chip answers with the right code, the immobilizer allows the engine to start. A key cut correctly but not programmed will turn the lock but won't start the engine.
Anti-theft features
Because a copied blade alone can't start the car, transponder keys make theft by key copying much harder. That's also why replacing them takes specialist equipment.
Why are replacement keys more expensive?
You pay for the chip key itself, cutting the blade and programming the vehicle. Some cars need extra security codes or software access, which adds time.
Services
- Spare transponder keys cloned from a working key
- Replacement keys when all keys are lost
- Programming of remote and proximity fobs for supported vehicles
- Removing lost keys from the car's memory
Frequently asked questions
Do you program every make?
Not every one. Some models need dealer-only access. Give us the make, model and year and we'll tell you.
Should I delete my lost key from the car?
Yes, if it may have been stolen. Programming can remove lost keys so they no longer start the engine.
Related services
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