If you have used a transponder key for some time, then you must appreciate its convenience. While it was easy and cheaper to replace car keys with cut versions in the past, the safety that modern transponder keys offer cannot be underestimated. It is no wonder that car owners immediately think of replacing their transponder keys the moment the keys stop working. Although your transponder key is not immune to malfunctioning, that doesn't mean that you should replace it the moment it stops functioning. There are a couple of things you should do first to ascertain whether your transponder keys are working or not.

Check for Presence of Multiple Keys 

Have you ever turned your transponder keys in the ignition slot only to find that the key doesn't engage the ignition? If you have, then you know how frustrating that can be. It is especially the case if the transponder was functioning well all along. Most people will often think about replacing the transponder at this point, but do not be quick to do that. First, make sure that no second transponder key is associated with your car within transmission distance. Most often than not, having two transponder keys that are associated with the same vehicle poses a problem because the car does not know which transponder to ignore. The result is an unresponsive transponder.

Inspect Battery 

One of the primary reasons why transponder keys become unresponsive is dead batteries. While this might seem common knowledge, it is not as straightforward to all car owners. Although quality transponder batteries are designed to last long, it is common for the keys to run out of energy reasonably fast. Therefore, do not assume that because you replaced the battery a month ago, then it is still working. If you have a spare battery, replace the current one, and do not be surprised to find out that the battery was the problem. If you do not have an extra battery, take the keys to a locksmith and ask them to test the battery for you.

Ascertain Radio Interference 

Transponder keys communicate with their associated cars through radio waves. However, radio frequencies are susceptible to distortion and scrambling when exposed to high amounts of radio interference sources such as aeroplanes, broadcast towers or satellites. Therefore, if your transponder keys stop working abruptly, look around you for the presence of an interference source. Most importantly, you will still get the transponder to work especially if you place it closer to your head — no need to replace it.