How it works

The smart key uses radio waves to “talk” to the matching vehicle containing embedded antennas that identify and confirm its presence.

The majority of car keys made since nineteen ninety five contain a device that can receive and transmit radio signals, called a transponder chip. On newer cars, keys do a lot more than just lock and unlock doors. A signal from an invalid key fob can trigger an alarm system or even disable the engine. This way, if someone enters the car without a valid ignition key, they won’t be able to drive away.

Once inside, simply pressing the ignition button, usually located next to the steering column, starts the vehicle.

Vehicles with a smart-key system can disengage the immobilizer and activate the ignition without inserting a key in the ignition, provided the driver has the key inside the car. On most vehicles, this is done by pressing a starter button or twisting an ignition switch.

How good are these smart keys when it comes to anti-theft technology? Well, for one, they also use rolling codes. A computer inside the vehicle recognizes the rolling code projected by the smart key, and then verifies it before starting the engine. 

This way, no one can use just any smart key to open up your vehicle’s doors or start its engine. Basically: Your Key Matches Your Car.

Types of Car Keys That Need Programming

• Car key with remote fob ( remote keys ) – provide keyless entry to the car.
• Car key with transponder chip also called transponder key.
• Flip keys.
• Smart keys / Keyless go / Push to start

What is an immobiliser and how does it work?

Essentially, an immobiliser is an electronic device that prevents a vehicle from being started unless the correct key is used or specific key fob is present. A factory-fitted immobiliser is one that is fitted at the point of manufacture. 

The engine immobilizer is an anti-theft system. When we put our key in the ignition or bring a Smart key fob into the vehicle, a code is sent from the key to the cars electronic control unit. The engine will only start if the code in the transponder chip inside the key or Smart Key fob matches the code in the vehicle’s immobilizer. 

An immobiliser is an electronic security device which will stop a vehicle from starting if the wrong key is used.

Do I have one?

If your car was made before 1998, it is likely that you will not have an immobiliser fitted. You can however purchase one and get it fitted. 

Factory-fitted immobilisers have been mandatory on all new cars since 1998, so if your car was built after then, it’ll almost definitely have one – unless a previous owner has done some tinkering with it and disabled or removed it.

At Sundial Locksmith, we specialize in car key duplication and remote fob sales and programming service. 

• Car key programming service
• Car key repair
• Proximity / smart keys
• OEM Car Key Duplication and Replacement
• OEM Remote Fob Duplication
• Standard car key cutting
• VIN Cut Car Keys (if all keys are lost)
• High security (laser key) car key cutting