Transponder Keys

Since 1995, all cars manufactured and sold in  Australia are more than likely  fitted with an immobiliser system. This was introduced as means to deter potential thieves from stealing vehicles. In order to start the vehicle, a key with an electronic transponder that holds a unique code is required. When the key is placed into the ignition of the vehicle, the car will only start if the code received from the key matches that of the vehicle. This also means that should your transponder in your key break, your vehicle will not start.

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The majority of modern vehicle keys are a combination of three keys (outlined below).

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1. A Mechanical Key

A metal key that is used to manually open the doors and is placed into the ignition barrel to release the steering lock and start the vehicle. (used in vehicles with no immobiliser).

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2. A Coded Electronic Transponder Chip

Introduced in 1995, the electronic, coded transponder chip is embedded into the plastic body of the key, the code is read when you turn the key in the ignition, the chip does not need batteries as it is passive. The engine will not start if the transponder chip is lost or broken. (used in vehicles with an immobiliser).

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3. A Remote Control

(Locks and unlocks the doors and turns off the alarm)

Remote controls are supplied with nearly all new cars to lock and unlock doors as well as disable the alarm. Commonly they use a radio transmitter to send a coded signal to a receiver on the car. These remotes are powered by batteries.

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Is your remote control not working?

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First check the battery, or if you suspect radio interference try using the remote control nearer to your car.

There should be a bypass system in cars with central locking, using the normal metal key to unlock the doors without setting the alarm off. Vehicles that come with keyless entry (i.e. the car door opens when you approach even if the key fob is in your pocket), have an auxiliary entry system, usually involving a key being used in a hidden lock. The location of the hidden keyhole is different for many manufactures and is explained in the car’s manual.

A broken or lost transponder car key will result in the vehicle not starting. Galaxy Auto Keys use the latest transponder key programming and key cutting technology to be able to produce replacement keys for the majority of vehicles.