Transponders in keys
Quote:
Originally Posted by princec
I'm informed that my 1200GSAdv has some clever electronic wizardy in the key which means that even if the patterns are somehow the same as someone else's the engine won't run.
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In recent years with so many bikes (and cars) being stolen, it has been deemed necessary by insurance companies to request the manufacturers to fit additional security devices to bikes on the assembly line. Transponders are fitted within the plastic key heads that must be individually programmed to match the bikes ECU. Even if the mechanical cuts on a duplicate key are the same, the bike will turn over but not fire. I suspect that manufacturers also wanted to tie owners back to authorised dealerships.
This has back fired somewhat as Locksmiths have access to programming equipment capable of encrypting keys for most makes. This gear is very expensive (upwards from $10K) so don't be suprised if the next key you get cut and programmed is as dear as a house payment.
As for the older model bikes with worn ignitions, the discs or slides wear out allowing more keys with similar cuts to work through them. Lubricate them occasionally with a dry lube such as graphite to prevent premature wear.
So my advice is to look after your keys more and don't allow them to be, crushed by a Rhino or submerged in water for very long as this can also cause them to fail.
Glen
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 Feb 2014, currently travelling the America's on a Tiger 800XC
Live every day like it's your last, one day you'll get it right!!!
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