AUTOMOTIVE
AUTOMOTIVE
Call (415) 892-9111
Serving Marin Since 1979
CA State Contractor's License # 541537
ON TIME . . . .  COURTEOUS SERVICE . . .  REASONABLE RATES
CA State Locksmith License # LCO 4361

7395 Redwood Blvd  (between Grant & Vallejo)  |   (415) 892-9111
Auto Locks Rekeyed & Repaired
Keys Copied
Lockouts
High Security Chip Keys Copied
Keys by Code
Replace and Rekey Damaged Locks
Remotes Sold and Programmed

REPAIRS - INSTALLATIONS - SALES

NOVATO
We make transponder keys for most makes of cars. Call ahead to assure a locksmith is a the shop.
Transponder keys may also be called “chip keys”. Transponder keys are automotive ignition keys with signal-emitting circuits built inside.

When the key is turned in the ignition cylinder, the car's computer transmits a radio signal to the transponder circuit. The circuit has no battery; it is energized by the radio signal itself. The circuit typically has a computer chip that is programmed to respond by sending a coded signal back to the car's computer. If the circuit does not respond or if the code is incorrect, the engine will not start. Many cars immobilize if the wrong key is used by intruders. Chip Keys successfully protect cars from theft in two ways: forcing the ignition cylinder won't start the car, and the keys are difficult to duplicate. This is why chip keys are popular in modern cars and help decrease car theft.

Many people who have transponder keys are not aware of the fact because the circuit is hidden inside the plastic head of the key. On the other hand, General Motors produced what are known as VATS keys (Vehicle Anti-Theft System) during the 1990s, which are often erroneously believed to be transponders but actually use a simple resistor, which is visible in the blade of the key. If the value of the resistor is wrong, or the key is a normal key without a resistor, the circuit of the car's electrical system will not allow the engine to be started.
see below
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