Advanced technology has made its way to the locking and ignition systems in new cars. Gone are the days of having normal, metal keys to open the doors and start the vehicle. Many cars do not even use what you would think of as a key at all. Everything is done electronically. This does not mean that if you are locked out of the car you need to call an electrician or computer wizard, though. Locksmiths who specialize in dealing with automobile locks have advanced too. They can reprogram, or make a new "key" to get you back into the car and home. Here is a bit of basic information about the different types of "keys" for automobiles.

Transponder Keys

A transponder key actually looks like a normal car key, but has a computer chip hidden inside the plastic top. This chip sends a signal to the lock or ignition when inserted. There is also a chip in the locks and ignition. Once the signal is sent, the car responds with a like signal, indicating that the lock can be opened or the ignition started. Sometimes there is a glitch in the system and the signals do not match. A locksmith can help by synchronizing the system. If you have lost your transponder key, or it is locked in the vehicle, the locksmith can make a duplicate and program it to work with your system.

Key Fobs

Key fobs are small devices with buttons on it that you can attach to a key ring. The buttons work to remotely open doors or start the car. You do not have to insert the fob into a lock or the ignition. Once you are within the system's signal range, you can simply push a button to unlock the doors or even start the car to warm it up. There is also a push button inside the car to start it, but you must have the fob within range for it to work. Some manufacturers will have a metal key hidden inside the fob, and a key slot hidden under the ignition button in case the system malfunctions.

Not all locksmiths have the ability to reprogram the chips or make new key fobs for all the different car manufacturers. If you are locked out, or your car won't start, make sure you tell the locksmith you call the make, model and year of the vehicle. The locksmith, one like Agape 24 Hour Locksmith Columbia, will be able to tell you over the phone whether he or she can help you with your problem. If not, ask if there is anyone local who can help. As a last resort, you can go to the dealership to resolve the issue.