Many modern vehicle keys contain a small electronic transponder. This transponder, often referred to as a “chip,” is embedded within the key’s plastic or metal housing. Its primary function is to communicate with the vehicle’s immobilizer system. An example of this would be a key that, upon insertion into the ignition, sends a unique coded signal to the car, allowing it to start.
The inclusion of this technology provides a significant advancement in vehicle security, making it considerably more difficult for unauthorized individuals to start and drive the vehicle without the correct key. The implementation of these systems began in the late 1990s and has become increasingly prevalent in automotive manufacturing globally. The benefit is a substantial reduction in vehicle theft rates.
