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How do I know if my Chevy key has a chip?

If you own a Chevrolet vehicle, it's important to know whether your car key has a chip embedded in it. This chip is a crucial security feature that helps prevent unauthorized access to your vehicle. Here's how you can determine if your Chevy key has a chip.


Identifying a Chipped Chevy Key


The easiest way to tell if your Chevy key has a chip is to look for a small, circular indentation or symbol on the key's surface. This indentation or symbol typically indicates the presence of a transponder chip inside the key. Additionally, you can try the following steps:



  • Insert the key into the ignition and turn it to the "On" position. If the "Security" or "Check Engine" light on your dashboard blinks, it's a sign that your key has a chip.

  • Try starting your Chevy vehicle with the key. If the engine doesn't start, it could mean that the key has a chip and the car's security system is not recognizing it.

  • Consult your Chevy owner's manual or contact your local dealership. They can confirm whether your key has a chip and provide guidance on how to properly use and maintain it.


Knowing whether your Chevy key has a chip is important for maintaining the security of your vehicle and ensuring that you can properly start and operate it.


The Importance of Chipped Keys


Chipped keys, also known as transponder keys, are a security feature that helps prevent car theft. The chip inside the key communicates with the vehicle's security system, allowing the engine to start only when the correct key is used. This technology makes it much more difficult for thieves to steal your Chevy, as they would need the specific key with the correct chip to start the vehicle.


If you need to replace a lost or damaged Chevy key, it's important to have a new key programmed by a qualified locksmith or your local Chevy dealership. This ensures that the new key's chip is properly recognized by your vehicle's security system.


Conclusion


Identifying whether your Chevy key has a chip is a simple process that can help you maintain the security of your vehicle. By being aware of this feature and taking the necessary steps to care for your chipped key, you can help protect your Chevy from potential theft and unauthorized access.

How much is a replacement key for a Chevy?


Chevrolet Key Fob Replacement Costs
Depending on the model and make, brand new replacement key fobs can cost you $200 or more.



Can a key chip cause the car not to start?


Once the transponder chip receives these signals, it responds with special codes to make the car work. With the correct codes, the car will start its engine. But, if they are incorrect, the ECU will not start the engine.



How to tell if a GM key is chipped on a Chevy?


YES another way is to look at the key if it has a plug at the end of the plastic red dot or black it has a chip in the key.



What happens if you use a non-chip key?


While it isn't all cars, in many, using a non-transponder key can activate your car's alarm. This is an extra security measure designed to alert you when somebody is trying to gain unauthorised access to your vehicle. transponder is causing the issue.



What year did Chevy start using electronic ignition?


Corvettes have had electronic ignition systems for over 40 years, starting with the powerful, dependable Delco HEI (high energy ignition) system in 1975 models. Prior to that, nearly all Corvettes, and pretty much every other motorized vehicle since the Model A, had the same simple ignition system.



What does a plus on a key mean?


In fact, almost any action or command you can perform with a mouse can be performed faster using one or more keys on your keyboard. In Help topics, a plus sign (+) between two or more keys indicates that those keys should be pressed in combination.



How do I know if my car key has a chip or not?


Another option is to contact your trusted locksmith service or dealership. Based on the year, make, and model of your vehicle a dealership or auto locksmith can tell if your car takes a chip key or not. If you currently operate your vehicle with a metal key, then it's not transponder equipped.



What year did Chevy put chips in keys?


General Motors Chip Keys. GM has first used transponder chip keys in 1997, but were slow to phase the technology in. Today, GM uses transponders on most of their models. Do not confuse transponder chip keys with the earlier VATS/PASS keys which contain a visible resistor pellet.



What is the difference between a transponder key and a chip key?


There is no difference between a transponder key and a chip key; both terms refer to the same type of car key that uses an embedded electronic chip to communicate with the vehicle's immobilizer system. The terms are often used interchangeably in automotive contexts.



How much does it cost to replace a key with a chip in it?


Transponder keys – Expect to pay anywhere from $100 to $250 for a transponder key replacement. The immobilizer chip in the key will also need to be programmed. Smart keys – Replacement costs for smart keys can range from $200 to $500 or more.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.